“Doc Searls is the mastermind behind Linux for Suits. We first
debuted the event at Fall Internet World in New York City. Linus
Torvalds and Eric Raymond were present, as were a number of
big-name Linux executives (read my report here). The show was a
success; we looked forward to LA. Attendance at the LA show wasn’t
as good as in NYC, but this didn’t come as a shock. Internet World
is exactly what it claims to be: a trade show dedicated to anything
related to Internet development and use. We didn’t aim Linux for
Suits at Linux users; we targeted the event at Internet World for
non-users and potential users of Linux.”
“Linux for Suits exists solely to help educate business
professionals about Linux and how it can be used effectively in
their business model. The event was keynoted by Larry Augustin
(President, CEO and Director of VA Linux Systems), a key figure in
the Linux business world. And with good reason. Larry spoke
eloquently and used his time well. He targeted his words to any
audience members that might be either unfamiliar with Linux, or to
those whose companies are interested in learning more about
Linux.”
“Larry began by asking for a show of hands: “How many of you use
Linux? How many of you don’t?” He then pointed out that if you use
the Internet, chances are, you use Linux. “Linux is the leading
operating system running the Internet.” His slides illustrated that
Linux owns 31% of the server market share, compared to 24% for
Windows NT and 17% for Solaris. He went on to explain that Linux is
not a unique case; that it succeeds not because it is Linux, but
because it is open-source software. He added that “Apache’s current
market share is 60%, well ahead of Microsoft’s ISS, while Sendmail
holds 80% of the e-mail market.” All three are perfect examples
that the open-source business model can be successful.”