Why Normal People Don't Use Linux

aka The Four Eyes

A way back I blogged in a self-important and knowing way about Why People Don’t Use GNU/Linux.

I'd like to update that now, and thus the appearance of The Four Eyes:

1. Inertia: it’s a lot of effort to change your ways and your system.
2. Ignorance: people just don’t know about Free Open Source Software.
3. Indifference: people just don’t care what flavour software they use, and why should they?
4. Innovation: there is no show-stopping, gob-smacking, utterly compelling reason to use Linux.

We (and I’m including you in this we ;) can do something about Ignorance, Indifference and Innovation. Only then can Inertia be overcome.

Here's a list of what we can do:

1. Spread the word. Ie bang on about how great FOSS is all the time until you don't get invited to any more dinner parties.
2. Carry an OpenDisc or five with you at all times. Slip it into Windows® PCs when no-one is looking. Hand them out in front of PC World.
3. Carry an Ubuntu CD with you at all times (or whatever your favourite distro is). Requisition your colleagues' computers when they take a toilet break and dazzle them on their return with a demonstration of the LiveCD. They will love you forever.
4. Choose your Favourite Five FOSS projects and give them some money. At the very least, send them a postcard saying how brilliant you think they are.
5. Think of ways your Favourite Five could be improved and let them know. But nicely. And with a cash incentive.