“As Linux becomes a more and more popular alternative OS, so has
the idea of making applications for it – specifically more
applications for the desktop Linux user. Business Logic brings to
the desktop their new product called Xess – a spreadsheet for
Linux. Another spreadsheet, you say? I already have StarOffice!
To be honest, that was one of the first things that came through my
head upon opening the box for Xess, as well. However, I think a
standalone application like Xess has its target audience. Not
everyone needs a full-sized office suite at their disposal. In
fact, a lot of Linux users are happy to use vi to do their
day-to-day text work and only need a dedicated app for a few
tasks.”
“Before we get into the features of Xess itself, there is a bit
of standard information. Xess is designed to run on Red Hat,
Debian, Caldera, TurboLinux and SuSE. In the kit that I received, I
got a CD copy of Xess (version 4.2, standard edition), a Getting
Started Guide, and a User’s Guide. The Getting Started Guide gives
you an overview on the basics of using Xess, some of its built-in
functions, and a tutorial chapter. The User’s Guide is a hefty
book, and is an in-depth look at Xess.”