Compaq and Linux (was Re: Error in Compaq Press Release)

["B. James Phillippe" <bryan terran org>]

Greetings,

I'm only furthering this thread with a response because I am aware of the
number of Compaq (formerly Digital) employees who monitor this list, and I
somewhat expect that certain comments posted here might find their way
further into the company.

On that note, I would like to voice my opinion, as an engineer and as a
long-time Linux enthusiast, on the developing relationship between Compaq
Corporation and the greater Linux community.

Compaq has shown more public support for Linux than I ever would have
imagined.  Their efforts to recognize the Linux community have turned my
opinion of them 180 degrees from contempt to respect (as will be reflected
in my purchasing power).

I agree that in their zeal for waving the Linux flag, they have perhaps
overstated their (historical) contributions, to some degree.  However,
although it may be appropriate to push for factual representation of
events, I would strongly argue that we take care to not jeopardize their
enthusiasm.  An amicable relationship between Compaq and the Linux comm. is
in both parties' greater interest.  The best thing for Linux/Alpha right
now is for Compaq to feel positive about continuing to publicly contribute
inside knowledge to Linux.

-bp
--
B. James Phillippe		. bryan@terran.org
Software Engineer, WGT Inc.	. http://www.terran.org/~bryan