Journal apt142's Journal: Microsoft and Users
I posted this a long time ago and was amazed when I saw it again on linuxworld:
When I look at a computer, I see a box of metal, plastic and electrons. I see mathematic equations and for/next loops. I see something engineered and well planned.
As well, I should. I have a degree in Computer Science. I make my bread and butter off of it.
When the average person sees one, they see something totally different. They see something mysterious and powerful. They see a creature capable of causing havoc and dismay. In most people minds, the only thing keeping this creature from devouring their latest report is the few things they know about it.
Microsoft has nurtured this perception.
That is why business men don't/won't change their OS. They know this demon, and they know how to appease it. Why switch to another when it could be much worse? Harder to appease? More complicated to work with?
IMHO, that is the perception of value.
I don't know what advice to give you. But, I've found that education is usually the best alternative. If that doesn't work, prove them wrong by making at least one box Linux and actually use it then demo it.
I yearn for the days when computers are about as mysterious as cars.
When I look at a computer, I see a box of metal, plastic and electrons. I see mathematic equations and for/next loops. I see something engineered and well planned.
As well, I should. I have a degree in Computer Science. I make my bread and butter off of it.
When the average person sees one, they see something totally different. They see something mysterious and powerful. They see a creature capable of causing havoc and dismay. In most people minds, the only thing keeping this creature from devouring their latest report is the few things they know about it.
Microsoft has nurtured this perception.
That is why business men don't/won't change their OS. They know this demon, and they know how to appease it. Why switch to another when it could be much worse? Harder to appease? More complicated to work with?
IMHO, that is the perception of value.
I don't know what advice to give you. But, I've found that education is usually the best alternative. If that doesn't work, prove them wrong by making at least one box Linux and actually use it then demo it.
I yearn for the days when computers are about as mysterious as cars.
