Comment Low Cost computers need Low Cost Software (Score 1) 439
Computers are dropping in price - pretty dramatically. Right now you can get a P3 600 with a 20GB HD, 128MB of ram, etc, for about $300 (without the monitor) - that is without OS. Now try to talk someone into spending $200 for the OS, and another $400 on the software to actually do work. The software totals more than the hardware! Most people are just not used to that.
Given MS hard line stance and raising of prices, Linux is getting an opportunity just as it is beginning to be stable and useful. Add to that the need to upgrade perceived by most businesses, and the low cost of Linux - an opportunity is born.
Yes, the current StarOffice is a pig - but presuming they answer the must problem areas (loading time, removal of the "desktop" and import/export filters) of that product, they have a chance to help the market find a low cost alternative. I just don't know how they will sustain their development if they do ask money for it.
David Stidolph
Austin, TX
Given MS hard line stance and raising of prices, Linux is getting an opportunity just as it is beginning to be stable and useful. Add to that the need to upgrade perceived by most businesses, and the low cost of Linux - an opportunity is born.
Yes, the current StarOffice is a pig - but presuming they answer the must problem areas (loading time, removal of the "desktop" and import/export filters) of that product, they have a chance to help the market find a low cost alternative. I just don't know how they will sustain their development if they do ask money for it.
David Stidolph
Austin, TX
