Re: [OS:N:] play hardball - no

[Access Systems <accessys smart net>]

On Thu, 5 Sep 2002, Bob Houghton wrote:

> Anything is not OK. You can't effectively challenge Microsoft's unethical practices by becoming unethical.
> 
> ====================
> > EVERYONE who reads could do as follows:
> >        1.)  Place copies of Lynux on top shelves, when visiting stores.

not unethical, I was looking at it and didn't know where it went, so just
put it on the shelf

> >        2.)  Squeeze copies of windows VERY FIRMLY (they are known to break) 

squeezing hard enough to break is probably (ok it is) unethical

> >              as you put them back (turned around) on the bottom shelf.

so I just stick em back on the shelf, can't help it if their backwards
half the stuff on the shelves is backwards

> >        3.)  Anything else you can think of?

ALWAYS ask for Linux stuff when visiting the store, and even buy (spend
money even) packaged copies of Linux stuff especially the newest edition
of the software from the store, keeps them restocking and helps out the
Linux companies, doesn't set me back much $$$ either.  IF I already have
that software or don't actually want it I "Donate" it to a worthy cause
(read someone who might actually use it)

4.)  when browsing in the computer stores ALWAYS ask if this printer or
that modem works with linux..sure you know the answer but maybe it will
encourage these shelf jockeys to find out what linux is.

5.)  Comp USA used to advertise "we install any software purchased
here" well I bought a copy of Red Hat there and asked them to install
it....duh,  almost felt sorry for the poor guy behind the counter.  I said
almost.

6.)  always ask for stuff that is linux specific, I always check on the
latest edition of Linux magazine (and Journal), ask if you don't see it on
the shelf.

all legal and ethical.  one of the problems is linux is thought by those
few of the general public to be software only a geek can use.  this
impression is fostered by M$ and others and keeps folks from even trying
it.  

maybe one of the linux companies could try a limited offer of a free copy
of their latest and greatest linux version to folks who send in a coupon
or postcard that is given out to these stores yes it might cost a bit to
get it started but the FULL packaged version would be on the store
shelves, or the coupon could be good for a FULL refund of the purchase
price (or a partial refund)  not only do they get copies of the OS out
there but they get a mailing list of potential or interested computer
users, the target group.

oh well enough rambling

Bob

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