[Lvlug] Business Selling Computers

[dann]

On Wed, 5 Jun 2002 14:25:04 -0400 (EDT)
Linc Fessenden <linc@thelinuxlink.net> wrote:


> True enough, but I believe a lot of this can be overcome with Linux just
> due to it's nature of being more stable and more secure...  Most people
> using windows become quickly frustrated with it's perpensity to crash
> several times during normal day-to-day operating. And even more so
> during program installation.  These are two points that Linux wins hands
> down.
> 

I won't argue that point of view.


> Big problem here alogn with MSN and the other proprietary internet
> services - at least for now.  Many (except MSN) are still working on
> Linux clients or already have them developed for release as soon as
> there is enough market to warrent them to do so.  If, however, they do
> not have a proprietary internet provider then getting them online is a
> simple thing using rp-pppoe or wvdial..  Quick and ultra simple.
> 


> This is going to be a problem.  This will require users learn something
> - which is normally something they do not like to do.
>  

I erased the stuff about plug-ins.  Yes, this would be the case.  But, you
go to a site that has flash and it directs you to an install, but I have
yet to see linux pop up on the page.  I usually get the message it cannot
detect my OS or browser type.  Furthermore, you are dependent on the coder
to have a latest version for Linux.  Look what happened with Real Player. 
Flash is the same way, with shockwave and all the extra plugins, not all
are linux compatible, even with cross-over there are problems.  

> > If you step up to the group who wants to add programs and do more
> > activities with their computers, again you face the compatibility
> > hurdle.  You cannot just go out and buy applications at Best Buy or
> > Staples.  Those won't work.
> 
> This could be easilly overcome with a little work on your end and a
> nicely set-up website hosting quality alternatives to regular-use M$
> applications, or perhaps by including a cdrom with those apps on it and
> some well written explanations.
> 

Yes, but then we are getting into a whole other avenue:  Service.  If
those apps are not installed already, then what?  Does your service
provide installation?  If so, where?  Onsite?  At the shop?  Do you
provide classes?  How will cost be effected?

> >  This group I will include the gamers and families wanting to use
> > educational programs.  Add to this the above problems, and they are
> > not your ideal target group.
> 
> Gamers will be hard to sway.  Very hard.  Maybe offer a dual-boot system
> for the hardened gamers and do some research to find quality and
> entertaining Linux games (pitch the free games).
>  

Now you're back to the MS tax with a dual-boot.  The free games are nice,
but what about The Sims?  (I know you can play sims on Linux but you pay
above and beyond the game itself for another service to do so.)


> > More sophisticated users are either going to install Linux themselves,
> > or not be pleased with how OpenOffice is not MS Office, or the Gimp is
> > not Photoshop.  Since chiliware went under, there doesn't seem to be a
> > replacement for Publisher.  
> 
> No printshop either....
>  
> > I personally think the best target would be small to medium
> > businesses. They are usually not looking for the variety a home user
> > would be looking for and may be more open to using OpenOffice or Gimp
> > as opposed to the pricier, compreable applications.
> 
> Definately..  With a little initiative you could possably sell them on a
> nice POS system.
>  

Bingo

> > We were just talking software here, but there is the whole arena of
> > hardware.    You can go out to your local store and buy a modem or
> > scanner that will pretty much come with drivers to work with Windows. 
> > This is not true for Linux.  I'm not saying the modem or scanner will
> > work flawlessly(or at all), but there is the illusion (at least) that
> > it is windows compatible:  It's on the box.
> 
> Again, a comprehensive website recommeding Linux compatable hardware
> should go a long way in taking care of that. 

This starts to get beyond the average user again and opens the door for a
service.  Most home users do not consult a hardware compatibility list for
windows products, because they expect it to work.  The only box I ever see
touting Linux compatibility is Linksys and (?) network cards and the
occassional cdrom/burner.  Furthermore, you can essentially throw out any
discs that come with the product and don't expect tech support from the
company for Linux.

This is why I feel business is the best target.


-- 
Daniel S. Washko
Lehigh Valley Linux Users Group
www.thelinuxlink.net/lvlinux
get slack (www.slackware.com ) and get happy