Toolkit

Story: IBM throws weight behind desktop Linux

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Speaking as a techno-naif, Linux has several attractive features vis-a-vis Windows. I've had it installed at various times on my desktop and my notebook computers. But in order for Linux to captivate a significant share of the desktop market, someone has to groom it for the backwards technology segment. It is, plain and simply, far from user friendly to install and use. The various apps have been named for the convenience of the Linux-geeks, not for the general market. Having to learn a relatively vast array of computerese before one can even attempt to load Linux is too discouraging for those who simply want an interface for doing their regular jobs. And forget about general driver support. Only the digitally-endowed set have access to audio/video support in Linux. If frustration and helplessness are desired lifestyles, get Linux on your box. Otherwise, wait for the Linux developers to move beyond their self-indulgent somnambulism and begin to address the needs of the typical end-user. We are not geeks and nerds. We don't want to become geeks and nerds. We use these tools for actual work that is not computer-centered.

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