the great software blog

Galen Gruman makes the case for desktop Linux now, in both business and at home:

I now understand why governments in Asia and Europe say they want to get off the Microsoft train and shift to Linux. I thought these were empty threats meant to get better licensing deals or to blunt some of Microsoft’s monopolistic power, but as it turns out, desktop Linux is a worthwhile option for both public organizations and private companies. Those who standardize on Linux would save serious money on the new equipment needed for Vista or Windows 7, not to mention OS and Office upgrades as well.

Even if you’re forced to use Microsoft products at work, it doesn’t mean you can’t use better open source software at home. But Gruman notes the same arguments made against Linux in the office are same against using Apple in the workplace. And while he recommends Wine and CrossOver Office for filling in the gaps, I don’t recommend that, even though I occasionally use Wine.

Here’s the deal. When you’re ready to break free of the Microsoft Tax on both your hardware, software, and data (via Microsoft’s proprietary formats), then you’ll consider Linux. And the sooner you do, the more you’ll thank yourself later. As usual, a reverent hat tip to Bob Sutor for his broad work on desktop Linux.