Enterprise open source Toolkit

Story: KDE getting ready to go native on Windows

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I definitely agree that the availability of cross-platform software increases the likelihood that a competing operating system will gain ground on the desktop.

Most people and organizations want smooth transitions. Risk and performance loss are in many cases lower when one incrementally changes software instead of an instant switch. Also people only change if they have the fait that it will work out. Getting familiar with cross-platform applications on Windows gives that fait. These are established facts in change management.

Please keep in mind that most people (the not computer religious ones) only look at direct (perceived!) benefits for themselves. They will not switch to Linux or another platform, unless:
1) they perceive Linux as a better platform for their needs
2) they think the available desktops and applications suite their needs (better)
3) they think the troubles of the switch is worth the advantage
4) they think they will overcome the possible interoperatebility problems with other people / organizations

Just having a better (or cheaper) desktop environment / applications won't convince most people. If after all people are satisfied with open source applications on an open source desktop environment on a proprietary operating system, they will not switch to for example Linux. But, according to the reasoning above they also would not if the open source software was not available on their proprietary operating system.

Think from a strength perspective. The open source operating system has to have (perceived) benefits for the user. Don't try to lock them in to Linux because it has better or cheaper software on top of it. Make interdependent switching of every software component on their computer as easy as possible. Only then will people chose their software on basis of benefits in stead of lock in. There is no point in trying to make people switch because you like them to switch. Make them want to switch, ... every component. Only that will lead to the competition that makes open source software development a strong model. Such will lead to better software, fait and finally exponential adoption of open source software.

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