Introducing Open Source to the World - Part 2 (Page 1 of 1)
Written by
Steve Lake
Posted on: Oct 20, 2008 at 02:44pm
Section:
Editorials
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In part 1 I covered some great examples of things I've learned while trying to share Open Source with those around me in school. In this part I'll be going over some of the things I've learned about evangelizing Linux to others around me. And if you're curious why I call it evangelizing, it's because what we're doing is essentially the same thing that religious groups do. But instead of trying to convert someone to a new religion, we're trying to convert then to a new way of using their computer, and freeing them for the "evils" of proprietary software. So the word fits in a manner of speaking. Anywho, on to the topic.
One of the biggest things I've seen that powers the resistance of people to using Linux is the desire to stick with what's familiar. We are a people who naturally do not like to change, and thus we tend to resist it whenever possible, except at times when change is necessary. That's covered in more detail in another article, so I'll leave it at that here.
Given that we're naturally inclined to stick with the familiar, we have to understand this fact and act accordingly when convincing someone to switch to Linux (or BSD, depending on the individual). One of the first things I've learned is never throw Linux on someone's machine and then just walk away. Especially if it's someone who's just switching from Windows due to major viruses or other issues common to Windows.
People who have been jilted by Windows in one way or another may be some of your easiest converts, but they'll also be your toughest long term sells. Why? Well, because jilted people will tend to run away from you too (and Linux) if they think they're being jilted again. It might seem like a bit of work, but in the long run it's worth it. Just get them started, help them make the switch, then be available to help them should they have any questions.
After you install Linux for them and get their system up and running, make sure they know everything they need to before you leave, or if they don't, make sure that they know where to find help should they need it. These may be some of your toughest converts, but in the end once they're over that "hump", they'll become one of the best advocates to Linux around. People who've had to fight through difficult times and succeeded tend to be the ones who stick with something the longest.
In the case of Linux and BSD, if they are suffering under Windows due to viruses, spyware, slow hardware, etc, and they find that Linux is better, even if it's got a bit of a learning curve, they will eventually stay with it if they feel that they're safe from getting "burned" again.
Well, that's it for this part. In part 3 I will be covering ways to convert the uncommitted (and non committal) users, as well as those who can't switch cold turkey.
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