According to Ralf Nolden, the maintainer of KDevelop, Kiosk mode allows an administrator to “lock down KDE so much that it is practically impossible for the users to mess up their configuration.” Read the article at NewsFactor.
The Suite Strategy of Konquering the Desktop
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Eugenia Loli
Ex-programmer, ex-editor in chief at OSNews.com, now a visual artist/filmmaker.
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This is a GREAT idea and one that has been long in coming. I think Linux makes an excellent choice for kiosk apps and this is one more step along the way to ensuring it’s success.
Locking down the desktop is not a new idea or anything, but making it easy enough for an average administrator to do it – now THAT’S a big deal!
this is good – the sys admin and it managers i’ve spoken to really need to have a “kiosk” like capability. the probem with the unix/linux desktops has been that they have been a bit too configurable for the non-technical user. windows is easier as there is less to go wrong.
here we have the perfect marriage – the power and flexibility stay with the sysadmin and the safety nets fall around the average office user.
i predict it will do well.
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I think this is great. A lot of people are turned OFF by the amount of configuration and the number of buttons everywhere in a desktop linux distro. A smart idea would be to have different levels of configurability. Basic, Intermediate, Advanced, etc.
That way, new users would see a simple desktop that’s easy to understand, but more advanced users can get at all the options they want.
The Kiosk feature is a thoughtful addition. It is great for offices where most of the execs are computer dumb and screw up the configuration unknowingly. The continuous addition of such features and distributions clearly signal the oncoming demise of microsoft. I can safely say that linux will rule the desktop by 2008 latest!! And guess what theres a company working in Pittsburg which is coming up with a killer distribution of linux. Cant give the name but can only say the distribution will be ready by 2007(I know long time) but can say that it is headef by an INDIAN.
Why even mention it?
I agree that Linux on the desktop’s a very achievable thing (and this whole kiosk idea is a great one to help this process along!), but to say that a company who’s product will not even be out for another 4 years is going to be all the difference…
What a ridiculous claim! I’m sure that both Be and Amiga users have shouted similar claims in the past.
“I can safely say that linux will rule the desktop by 2008 latest!!”
Whew! Well at least now all the analysts can rest as you’ve figured out the ultimate question. Better sell that MS stock while we still can!
Whatever… More FUD on the fire, so-to-speak