Linked by Charles Williams on Mon 7th Apr 2003 03:17 UTC
We have all heard the horror stories of how GNU/Linux is difficult, if not almost impossible, as far as general desktop usability is concerned. In particular, there seems to be a continuous stream of gripes printed across the Internet, from Microsoft Windows users who wish, or have tried, to migrate to GNU/Linux, yet gave up in frustration. But what happens when complete computer newbies are introduced to GNU/Linux? By computer newbies, I am referring to those who have no computer experience whatsoever, in either a Windows, Mac, Linux, Unix or other environment.
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The neighbours in this scenario are in a very similar situation to my sisters' family. The problem in the real world is ongoing support.
Mys sister uses MYOB for her accounts (as do most Australian businesses). When things go wrong her accountant sends a staff member to fix it up. Finding an accountant who can deal with Debian and OSS accounting packages is a big potential problem.
A highly successful person should not waste time trying to save a few bucks as it is false economy. A surgeon shouldn't waste 2 hours mowing his lawn when he can earn a few thousand doing an operation in the same time. The same thing with a business person - the case family probably saved a couple of hours income at most. In return they may lose hundreds of hours of work if the system doesn't perform properly.