Would You Date Microsoft?

teslatug writes "Channel9 has an interview with Bill Hilf of the Open Source Software Lab at Microsoft. Hilf argues that the majority of companies advocate open source solely so that they can drive customers to their core business, which is not open source. He calls this his 'donut theory.' Hilf also sees RedHat in this model, with support being their core. He compares this to dating, where you have to offer your date value in order to entice them. In his view, Microsoft offers developers a platform where they can make money selling their software. The virtues of 'free as in freedom' and the value of open source to the desktop users are skirted, but he makes an interesting point about big businesses like IBM and Oracle."

Comments

Re:My Linux Annoyances as a Hardended Windows user

[drsmithy]

Driver has to go with the kernel for it to work.

Only on Linux. Other platforms do not have this flaw.

Re:Why does Slashdot even have a Linux section?

[Anonymous Coward]

Maybe this is telling you something. Most of the world really could care less about the OS wars. For most, the commercial variants of Windows or Apple are it. Linux "still" has lousy app support and config issues that would be laughable in OSX or Windows. Lets be honest, Linux is nice for the hobbyist, but its a little late to the desktop OS game.

Elegance isnt defined by how much you can tinker with compiling kernels and command utilities. An Elegant OS of the modern age will be powerful and effortless to use. Linux has a bit too much geek in it which actually hinders its adoption.

If an auto manufacturer sold cars in parts unassembled for a cheap price do you think most consumers would by it?