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Groklaw Tries Their Own Linux Usability Study
inode_buddha writes "There's a new project taking shape at Groklaw. Calling it Grok-docs, it aims to do what many of us have long whined about - a large-scale linux usability study. Evidently, PJ had some frustrations with linux, and is asking for suggestions. So far, it seems to be following a Wiki-style setup. Everybody is welcome, especially those with little or no linux experience. I hope the distros and vendors are watching this one!"
i've used linux at work before. but never had to maintain/install it. i was there for the emacs and faster compiling. Anyway, as an end user, there's a lot of work to be done. Basic setup issues with redhat (fedora core) can be extremely annoying. I.e. Sound didnt work, and I couldnt find documentation through searching google (docs that actually worked). End user install issues: 1) Sound problems. XMMS and ut2004 works after many hours of research. Most everything else doesnt, i.e. Realplayer 2) Webcams. None of the defaults/helpers apps work with my (widely sold) logitech cam. I had to use the command-line and do research and create a little script to use my logitech camera. 3) video card setup needs more work. and now theres an nvidia splash screen that i really shouldnt have to figure out to disable. (app land) 4) Why doesnt mozilla install/configure plugins correctly/regularly? PLEASE? flash/real audio installs but either ownly recognizes some files or doesnt work at all. (documentation) 5) How am I(newbie) supposed to divine where to look for information/help? Google tends to direct searchers to links that involve pay-per-answer crap. 6) Updates--the red hat subscription system seemed nice. But registration, etc, paying for services, isnt what people expect to see when using a free system. -------------- As I side note, I was a java developer (and no, not just html/jsp), and currently have my own slash server running on linux. But that doesn't mean i _like_ complicated tech/systems/super-ultra-configurable modules. And thats what it still comes off as.
All your preview button are belong to hello kitty.
Installing Linux is not as easy as installing Windows.
With Windows you set your language, timezone, and then walk away for an hour.
With Linux, you sit there, configure devices, test your video card, etc. etc.
Windows' installer is smart enough to not need such interaction.