PUBLISHED: December 12, 2008
Not everyone loves to use Linux. This is difficult for some Linux enthusiasts to accept - regardless of the truth. This week a teacher caused a stir by suggesting it is illegal. Bloggers immediately chimmed in. Some were extremely disrespectul while others just didn't understand that everyone does not believe Linux is easy to use. My sister loves to explain that Linux PCs are more likely to be returned than Vista-based PCs. The data are in agreement. Linux-based PCs are returned. Returned PCs though only suggests consumers are expecting one thing and finding out Linux does not meet this "thing." This does not mean Linux is bad, only different.
The hyperbole the teacher used is probably more telling of her knowledge than the experiences of all Linux users. But her words are more telling of the market share of Microsoft products. Linux developers should rise to this challenge and not fight it. Rise up and create a better product. Instead of complaining - the developers and enthusiasts should simply accept the perspectives of others - and learn from it. Learn that there are challenges to Linux.
I remeber years ago that the number one challenge to Linux was the installation. Getting Linux installed was a right of passage. Eventually installation became a breeze. Next came actually using Linux - and slowly learning to develop Linux with the desktop in mind. Over the years - developers have done a masterful job improving Linux.
The teacher now points out there are still challenges. Enough said.
