TV Commercial for New Ubuntu PCs
Advertising and Marketing, Linux submitted by josmar52789
05/03/07
Dell should produce a new commercial for the Ubuntu PCs. It could tell the consumers of America why Dell has chosen to pre-install Linux on mainstream computers and hopefully promote the advantages of this new endeavor. Plus, it's likely that Dell's Linux initiative would be much more successful.
19670
Provide Linux compatibility information on all products up front
Advertising and Marketing, Linux submitted by spm
02/21/07 **REVIEWED**
My company used to buy all out IT products from Dell. The main reason we don't buy any Dell products any more is that it is so difficult to get information from Dell on Linux compatibility, except from a few very expensive high end products. Calling Dell product support to find out if a particular product will work with Linux and where to get drivers is an offputting experience. Dell sales staff seem to take a perverse delight in telling customers that they don't support Linux, and when I tell them that I don't want support from them, only compatibility and driver information, they tell me that they can't give me that information, nor information on chipsets which might allow me to locate information from elsewhere.
The bottom line is that I expect at the very least to be provided compatibility and chipset information before I buy a PC. Neither myself or any other customer is going to buy a Dell PC to test it on Dells behalf - product testing and certification is the manufacturer's responsibility, not mine. White box suppliers, and other mail order suppliers on the other hand are only too willing to provide motherboard, chipset, and component information etc. to allow me to check compatibility.
The reason why we no longer buy any Dell products is simple - we use a small number of Linux PCs in our office and all the servers in our office run Linux. We buy all hardware, peripherals including low end desktop hardware so that they are deployable with both Linux and Windows. We do this for obvious reasons - for example, we might want to plug in a printer originally purchased for use with Windows into a Linux server print queue, and we may want server applications to print to the printer. We may want to redeploy Windows Desktops later as Linux desktops - for example to use as a shared data access desktop. Therefore, although our desktop PCs are overwhelmingly Windows, we won't buy any hardware that isn't Linux compatible, even if it is intended for use with Windows initially. Dell unfortunately doesn't meet those needs, and we cannot buy equipment from Dell. I am sure a lot of other companies which use Linux in the office have similar issues.
Here is what Dell needs to do to have a chance of winning our (and other's) custom:
1) Advertise and inform about Linux compatibility or otherwise. Finding out about compatibility before buying is the most difficult thing about Linux, not installation or configuration. Any company that can do this has a huge advantage for little or no cost.
2) Provide full Linux compatibility information on all Dell products - not just high end desktops. Ideally, certify products for the top distros - RHET, SLES, Debian, the latest free Fedora, OpenSuSE, Ubuntu if possible. Linux users don't necessarily want a preload - most Linux users are quite capable of installing Linux themselves and would probably install some other Linux distro if one was pre-installed. Preinstallation is only useful to us as an indication that the product is Linux compatible. If a feature is only partially supported by Linux, say so and say what is supported - Linux users will understand, and may not need all the features, or like us they may only want the Linux compatibility for possible future redeployment. If driver support is external (most will be) then provide links pointing to those sites in Dell support, and if you need to make a disclaimer to avoid liability for a third party products outside Dell's control, do so. Again Linux users will understand.
3) Exclude products from the Dell inventory that don't support Linux as far as possible. Generally for every part that is not Linux compatible, there is one that is Linux compatible for the same price.
4) Don't ask customers to pay the Microsoft tax. Linux machines or no-OS machines with zero cost OS and no support should cost significantly less than a Windows pre-loaded machine. Customers know when they are being cheated and don't like it.
5) Linux support (except for driver information) is not usually required (except for servers), only web based information. If the customer needs Linux support, it will probably be from an independent consultant/techie rather than from Dell. Sell your Linux PCs as "Linux OEM - no support" PCs at a significantly lower cost than the equivalent Windows PC.
6) Linux on the desktop is most competitive on the low end desktop - particularly for schools etc. Sell Linux PCs preloaded onto low end desktop computers with appropriate free software for that market, at a competitive price rather than on high end workstations.
Upfront Linux capability would be difficult to implement on our web store. But, check some of the alternatives john_h posted.
10530
Linux compatibility assurance
Linux, Operating Systems submitted by moseby
02/20/07
The first major PC vendor that provides a product line and an online ordering system that allows me to shop and configure machines that are assured of having 100% support by linux wins my business.
I would expect some hardware to require vendor supplied binary drivers. I would want an indication of that fact and be given the choice of choosing that device or other hardware with community support.
Other ideas offered here that I resonate with are: 1) I don't need machines preloaded with any distro but may choose that option if offered, and 2) I don't need Dell support for the OS, that is what the community is for.
7290
Provide Linux Drivers for all your Hardware
Linux submitted by gergnz
02/19/07 **IN PROGRESS**
I don't care whether the OS is pre-installed or not, I want all the hardware to be totally supported in the Linux kernel without in mucking around. I currently have a Dell M1210 and I wish the modem would work, just in case I need it. The web cam would work, just in case I need it. At least the Intel wireless card is totally supported. Thanks Intel!!
Drivers are available for Linux to make some but not all hardware work. We continue to work with our partners to provide for better hardware support. See more specifics from john_h.
84707
Linux - Distribute Live Disks!!
Linux submitted by cosh
04/01/07
Earlier, I was trying to join the general support for Dell to do more computers with Linux pre-installed. But, reading the US Deparment of Justice Findings of Fact in the old Microsoft anti-trust case, I realised what a shockingly tight grip Microsoft have on OEM retailers. It's a long, confusing and scary read, but the important notion is this:
The more computers Dell (or any other OEM retailer) sell with Linux or without an OS, or the more they advertise Linux on their site, and the more they INCLUDE ANY OPEN-SOURCE SOFTWARE ON THEIR MACHINES WHICH COULD AT ANY LEVEL COMPETE WITH SOFTWARE FROM MICROSOFT, the higher price Microsoft can charge Dell for all versions of Windows that they want to sell. Thus, the cost of Windows PC's might go up for Dell.
How about, Dell do something different here. Just give away the live disks for a few different distros free with their computers. That way, you don't get into trouble with Microsoft at all. If Microsoft try to change the price they sell Windows at to Dell for just for bundling a simple free complimentary gift with their computers, it would be so blatantly illegal and anti-competitive and just what the Department of Justice is looking for - they would be on them in minutes. Maybe I'm being naîve but really I don't see how Microsoft could possibly retaliate...
<u>Advantages of using Live Disks:</u>
- It lets people still try Linux even if they wouldn't go for the dual-boot option. This method will give so much publicity to Linux - like nothing else ever could.
- It makes an amazing tool for support. If Windows goes wrong, the support personnel can ask if the user has their Linux disks available and use one of those to boot up and fix the problem. It also lets you test if a problem is with the hardware or with Windows or an application.
- You don't have to install it. Just put in the DVD (or CD) and restart the computer. Instant and workable Linux with no-risk. It doesn't attempt to write to the hard drive and cannot damage anything. Run OpenOffice, Mozilla Firefox, etc., straight from the DVD.
- You can include a few different distros on different disks, instead of just one.
- There's no danger from not knowing how to use Linux, because Windows is still the main OS. You just have some free bonus software with your PC is all.
- If you hate Linux, break the disks as some kind of ritual of it. Or whatever. It's your choice.
- It's extremely quick and easy for Dell to start with, because not everything has to work right with regards to driver issues. The disks are extremely good at auto-detecting hardware on the fly, but if, for example, there's no sound support running off the live disk, it doesn't matter, because it's not the main OS. Including a couple of live disks is quick and cheap and they tend to be packed with software, so it lets everyone get a hellova lot more for their money when they buy a Dell.
- It can also hugely boost popularity for having Linux installed on future computers. Dell can use this as an advert for dedicated Linux machines. And then lots more major retailers, like Dell, will see the opportunity. This could be the start of a real change and new flexibility in the market.
Want to know more about the inflatable penguin above? They were giving out demo disks of Linux. Read the short story here and see the photos here. The funniest bit from it is this:
Our presence also attracted one of the Ice House employees. He crossed the street, fully clad in Windows Vista sweater and hat, and approached me. "Hey, are you guys promoting Linux?" he asked. I nodded, smiling. "Can I get a CD? I'm curious, I'd like to try it," he continued. Trying not to laugh at the irony of it all, I gladly handed him a CD. He thanked me, and quickly ran back to the Ice House before anyone saw him with the Linux people. Translation: Lots of people would like to try Linux, even if they wouldn't have it as a main operating system. Open the window. Linux is ready for the world, and the world is ready for Linux.
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Licensed Codecs for Linux
Linux, Software, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dphurst
04/01/07
Any Linux based system Dell markets should have licensed codecs available for playing DVDs, MP3 music, and type of protected or encrypted media just as Windows systems. We don't want to promote crippled systems or encourage people to download and install code that isn't legal where they live. Dell could and should package into the price of a system the cost of licensed codecs for all desktop and mobile systems they sell. Windows users are required to pay the fee to play encrypted DVD media when they purchase their systems. Pay to play or pay a fine in America or just about any 1st world country. I don't like it and don't agree with the mess Congress and the RIAA have made of the situation. But, Dell does have an opportunity here to fill a gap in the market and provide a real service for buyers of Linux based desktops and mobile systems.
This post is specifically for promoting Licensed Linux Codecs only. Other posts have this idea embedded with other ideas. I feel this is important enough to be a separate idea. See http://www.ideastorm.com/article/show/62747/Preinstall_Linux_with_option_of_l...
for a previous post with this idea as part of the post. I voted there and encourage you to do the same.
PS. We have to thank www.jinx.com for the lovely icon image for this post!
110
Audit all software you ship for spyware/backdoors
Software submitted by jmxz
04/03/07
One of your software vendors has built back doors into its software before:
http://www.heise.de/tp/r4/artikel/5/5263/1.html
Your international customers at least - and I suspect most corporate customers - don't appreciate back doors in their software.
You should audit the source code of all the software you ship - or hire a competent third party (not the software vendor supplying the software) to audit it for you. Then make sure the software builds you receive match those of the audited software. Bottom line, though is that I trust you more than I trust Cyberlink, McAfee, RealNetworks, and Microsoft.
This is not just some F/OSS advocacy posting - it applies to Windows too.
Microsoft makes it's source code available for audits to customers that are important to Microsoft. http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1895,1647564,00.asp
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End PC Payola | Pioneer a PC Builder Code of Conduct
Service and Support, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dhart
02/20/07
Dell's image was damaged by the $1bn Intel kickback scandal. Many in the computer industry believe that Microsoft's grip on Dell and other PC Builders is airtight due to secret deals and marketing kickbaks. Consumers appreciate lower prices on new Dell PCs thanks in part to bundled 3rd party software, however we are not permitted to choose the software that is pre-installed, and kickback deals are not transparent.
In the music recording and radio broadcasting industries, similar shady practices are called payola. Please, end PC payola, and give control back to your customers.
We encourage Dell to pioneer a voluntary PC Builder Code of Conduct, and regain the public trust.
CHOICE is what consumers want on their new PCs, not annoying surprise payola circus-ware (the typical smattering of confusing 3rd party popup-infested software found on most new Dell PCs). Transparency at Dell is necessary for true consumer choice. For example, transparency can be improved by providing the choice of pre-installing quality free and open source software (developed with near 100% transparency). Cast your vote to have the OPTION of buying a new Dell PC pre-installed with Linux and other free software like OpenOffice.org.
4627
Pre-install Linux with option of licensed codecs
Linux, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dominicwise
02/20/07
Provide customers with the option to have Linux pre-installed as an alterrnative to Windows when purchasing a PC or laptop. As there are a huge number of Linux distributions available it might be sensible to offer from a few of the most popular ones e.g. Ubuntu, OpenSuse, Fedora which can be freely distributed at no cost. This would provide a competitive advantage as with zero licensing fees lower prices could be offered to customers.
Because of patent laws in some countries many freely downloadable Linux distributions do not provide certain 'essential' software such as decoders for commercial DVDs and other comon media formats as part of their core distribution. There is at least one company (whose name escapes me for now) that allows a user to purchase a bundle of licensed media codecs that can be legally installed on Linux in most, if not all jurisdictions. Offering somehing like this as an option at purchase would make it possible for users to access common media content without having to jump through hoops or risk straying onto the wrong side of the law.
1599
Ethernet KVM - Network Video Card
Servers and Storage submitted by joeaguy
02/19/07
Provide a video card that connects to a network instead of a monitor.
KVM cables and switches can be expensive, and take up extra room in the data center. Most servers don't need much in the way of videa, although Windows pretty much requires that you have a graphic card and attached monitor to be useful. A video card that has an ethernet jack for sending the screen over a private ethernet network would elminiate the need for KVM switches, and for keeping monitors around in the data center as any laptop will do.
The card should provide multiple ways to connect, including at least one existing standard, such as VNC, X Windows, or Windows Remote Login, and an all web based option, that uses either a Java applet or Flash movie to display the screen in a browser. If some proprietary client is needed, at least write versions for Windows, Linux, and MacOS X, and/or Java.
46
Environmental Laptop Based on Solar Energy/Hydrogen Fuel Cell
Environment, Laptop Power submitted by gchakra
02/17/07 **UNDER REVIEW**
What's smart for the environment is smart for Dell. Dell should build units that are degradable or can be easily recycled. Sure, its going to be a little more expensive, but it will be a smart product. It will use a lot less energy. The laptops could have a solar panel or be powered by a hydrogen fuel cell. The first microelectronic implementation of a fuel cell will give Dell a tremendous marketing boost. It will be incredibly popular with kids in college.
Gopal
4235
Should Apple licence OS X to Dell? | Bigmouth Strikes Again - Freelance journalist Gary Marshall on technology, the Internet, music, Macs and more
Operating Systems submitted by pwalker
01/30/07
There was an interesting op-ed by Doug Mohney in The Inquirer yesterday, which suggested that the launch of Vista provides a good opportunity for Apple - if it licences OS X to Dell.
However, Vista is being beaten like a dead horse by the mass media – most of them already are enthralled to the God of Jobs if you read between the lines, so Microsoft could make nuclear fusion work tomorrow and they’d give it a lukewarm review at best. The consensus view out of the babbling punditry is “Don’t buy Vista today, unless you have to buy a new computer tomorrow.”
On that front, I think the babbling pundits are right. Heh.
So what about Apple?
If Apple was serious, and I mean really serious, about gaining more PC market share, they’d realize they need to license/sell their operating system to another hardware manufacturer or two. Sure, Apple’s tried the license route before with mixed results, but it’s about time to bite the bullet, look into the mirror, and realize they should try something bold.
Apple should license their operating system to Dell.
Mohney isn’t suggesting that Apple should make OS X available to any PC user; the dangers of that (such as hardware incompatibilities or really crap machines ruining Apple’s reputation) have been talked to death for years. Rather, he’s suggesting that Apple could team up with a single PC manufacturing firm to make decent clones, expanding OS X’s market share without diluting the core Apple brand. It wouldn’t be an Apple Mac: it’d be a Dell Mac. Dell’s good at churning out PCs, so if Apple laid down strict criteria about what should and shouldn’t go into a clone you could get decent non-Apple Macs competing in different markets to Apple Macs. Does anyone really think Dell is capable of making something as sexy as a MacBook or as iconic as the iMac?
I’m sure Mohney will be inundated with angry emails, but I do wonder how many of the senders will have reacted similarly to suggestions a few years back that Macs should run Intel chips. I think his idea’s fascinating.
4471
Pre-Installed OpenOffice | alternative to MS Works & MS Office
Software, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dhart
02/17/07
Provide OpenOffice.org for free pre-installation alongside Microsoft Works and Microsoft Office. OpenOffice.org is more capable than Microsoft Works, and a serious competitor to Microsoft Office, at a fraction of the cost (it's free!)
OpenOffice.org can open, create, edit and save Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint files.
Provide as OPTIONS for pre-installation many other high-quality free software programs such as:
- Firefox: web browser with popup and privacy controls; say goodbye to Internet Explorer infections!
- Thunderbird: email program with free anti-spam and privacy controls
- Pidgin: instant messaging all-in-one program for popup-free MSN, Yahoo, AOL and others
&nsbp;[ed: GAIM was renamed Pidgin in April 2007 to settle the issue with AOL's trademark on AIM]
- PDFCreator: creates Adobe PDF files from any program
- Scribus, Inkscape & GIMP: desktop publishing, freehand drawing & powerful image editing
- Audacity & VLC: multi-track audio editing & universal all-in-one media/video/movie/DVD player
- Stellarium & Celestia: planetarium viewer & outer-space mapping, like Google Earth, but for our Solar System
Pre-installed quality free and open source software drastically lowers the cost of new PCs, and helps prevent software piracy. Cast your vote for Linux and other free software. Cast your vote for the Universal Education PC [ed: article removed/merged by dell_admin] utilizing free software.
CHOICE is what consumers want on their new PCs, not annoying surprise circus-ware (the typical smattering of confusing 3rd party popup-infested software found on most new Dell PCs). Quality free and open source software is well behaved, and may be legally pre-installed on PCs, and legally shared with friends and family, sharing is encouraged! Cast your vote for consumer CHOICE and public transparency at Dell.
140809
Pre-Installed Linux | Ubuntu | Fedora | OpenSUSE | Multi-Boot
Linux, Operating Systems - Multiboot, Sales Strategies, Desktops and Laptops submitted by dhart
02/16/07 **PARTIALLY IMPLEMENTED**
Offer the 3 top free Linux versions for free pre-installation on all Dell PCs.
Quality free and open source software drastically lowers the cost of new PCs, and helps prevent software piracy. For example OpenOffice.org, the Microsoft Office alternative, can shave hundreds of dollars off the price of a new PC. Cast your vote for OpenOffice and other free software.
Offer easy multi-boot options with Windows Vista, Windows XP, or NO Windows (yes, Linux can entirely replace Windows!)
Offer trade-ins and Linux CDs for older model Dell PCs. Cast your vote for the mini Linux Dell PC and the Universal Education Dell PC, both utilizing free software.
Would you try Linux if it were this easy?
CHOICE is what consumers want on their new PCs, not annoying surprise circus-ware (the typical smattering of confusing 3rd party popup-infested software found on most new Dell PCs). Quality free and open source software is well behaved, and may be legally pre-installed on PCs, and legally shared with friends and family, sharing is encouraged! Cast your vote for consumer CHOICE and public transparency at Dell.
Please take a look at www.dell.com/open for linux options on the Inspiron.
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 track my votes
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