Reasons for IBM/Linux (Score 1)

Well, the IBM/Linux combo in my humble opinion, is a very good thing. However, the reasons for it are probably less ideal than most people would like to think. In my opinion, I believe IBM decided to distribute linux on their eservers and such out of necessity rather than an active choice. I mean think about it, their server market share was dwindling to IIS and others, and the software used to run them was pretty crude compared to many others. Now, if the IBM heads decided, we need a boost, we need it quick, and preferably cheap, what comes to mind? Linux! It's a market strategy that was pioneer since it was one of the biggest companies to adopt Linux. Unfortunately, their desktop market can't be saved by the same strategy because IMHO, IBM would be just throwing away money in that sector with Linux, at this point, anyway. Linux is not enough of a widely used personal package as it is for servers and other uses, obviously. For IBM to adapt it, it would be a considerably risky investment. Being as there is no other choice for the IBM desktop range other than to follow other vendors, their lack of pace with that market has already sent it to an early grave. Therefore, I'd rather see it go so that IBM can cut dead weight and focus on what really matters, their linux touting servers and all it's glory. -vik