A week old, but, apparently, a timeless topic. Miguel de
Icaza:
"The proven success of Linux-based servers for
mission-critical business applications, many have asked when Linux
on the corporate desktop will also take off. While Linux
distributions and key server technologies such as Apache and Samba
power up to a third of corporate Web, database and file servers,
widespread adoption of Linux for end-user desktops at the expense
of Microsoft Windows has seemed like the promise of a distant
future.
Until now.
The penetration of Linux into corporate desktops has already
begun as research and development departments, technology
companies, retail powerhouses and even national governments turn to
Linux and free software for its superiority as a development
environment, its easier customization and its lower cost of
ownership relative to Windows-based systems. To move beyond its
current 2% market share (according to a figure published by IDC in
March), though, the Linux desktop must be easier to use and offer
the file compatibility and suite of productivity applications that
users need while simplifying the management of constantly enhanced
open-source software."
