My biggest concern would be the result. Will the clients feel comfortable with their new computers? What kind of learning curve will there be before the clients are comfortable? Corel Wordperfect Office Suite will at least give a lot of them a familiar interface. There is already an established user base that can offer help to clients moving from Microsoft products. I would be concerned about hearing secretaries complaining about; the strange new software (Applixware, Star Office) they never heard of and don't know anyone who knows how to use. Many will think, "Well if it isn't Microsoft Office, at least it's something familiar." For the experienced Linux user, any word processor will work; but for the beginner KISS. The implementation is another question. My goal would be to minimize my work and effort while maximizing the returns. I would arrange to have all of the software preloaded on the computers by the vendor. Several Linux vendors are in bundling deals with computer manufacturers/assemblers. Corel recently refocused it's attention to bundling and licensing deals. Considering their recent money troubles Corel is probably willing to negotiate very favorable pricing. Having familiar software preinstalled with the manuals packed in the same boxes, is definately the way to go. It really boils down to: 1) Buy a familiar brand name. 2) Let someone else do the work. 222 www.acmecycle.com
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My biggest concern would be the result. Will the clients feel comfortable with their new computers? What kind of learning curve will there be before the clients are comfortable? Corel Wordperfect Office Suite will at least give a lot of them a familiar interface. There is already an established user base that can offer help to clients moving from Microsoft products. I would be concerned about hearing secretaries complaining about; the strange new software (Applixware, Star Office) they never heard of and don't know anyone who knows how to use. Many will think, "Well if it isn't Microsoft Office, at least it's something familiar." For the experienced Linux user, any word processor will work; but for the beginner KISS. The implementation is another question. My goal would be to minimize my work and effort while maximizing the returns. I would arrange to have all of the software preloaded on the computers by the vendor. Several Linux vendors are in bundling deals with computer manufacturers/assemblers. Corel recently refocused it's attention to bundling and licensing deals. Considering their recent money troubles Corel is probably willing to negotiate very favorable pricing. Having familiar software preinstalled with the manuals packed in the same boxes, is definately the way to go. It really boils down to: 1) Buy a familiar brand name. 2) Let someone else do the work. 222 www.acmecycle.com