DevX.com: Linux vs. Windows: Choice vs. Usability

“During the recent LinuxWorld conference, Linux proponents
loudly celebrated Linux’ increasing importance in the world of
software. It’s true that Linux has made great strides in becoming a
standard part of the computing landscape, but it has made far more
inroads into the Unix space than into the Windows desktop space.
Despite that, there’s simply no doubt that the
desktop—and Microsoft—are the current
target of many open source software projects. These projects are
conceived, executed, and extended to compete with Microsoft’s
desktop applications.

“They’re making progress, too, particularly with early-adopters
and in IT-mandated vertical application environments, but as these
projects mature, they’re going to have to compete head-on with
their far better funded and user-tested Microsoft counterparts on
average users’ desktops. To compete successfully, Linux needs a
standardized platform and robust installation mechanisms so that
users can choose software on its merits, without worrying about
whether the software they want works on their particular Linux
flavor or GUI choice…”

Complete
Story