Re: [edlug] Stallman's talk

[Martin Fitzpatrick <martinf@xxx.xxx.xxx>]

Catriona & Anand wrote:

> On Friday 28 May 2004 15:59, David Marsh's listreading hat wrote:
> -------------------------8<--------------------------
>
> > Unfortunately, by then, they've already been using Windoze (etc) for
> > months and work practices are set in stone.
> >
> > They've already spent that money on Windoze, so it's been spent, it's
> > gone. They can't get it back.
>
> -------------------------8<---------------------------
>
> Actually, there is another consideration. Many charities will have donated 
> hardware, often of uncertain provenance. Can they demonstrate that the copies 
> of proprietary OSs and applications are legally licensed. Part of the job of 
> IT support for such organisations is to audit the risk of legal challenge on 
> the software they use. The cost of new Windows + MS Office for just a couple 

Thats a very good point - and would be something worth pointing out to 
charities... "Use free software, and you're free AND legal".  Even 
though its unlikely for MS to go chasing after charities... not good PR.

Are there any OSS organisations dedicated to re-homing old hardware for 
charities? Do these (could they) pre-install OSS software en-route, in 
the interests of (perceived) choice if nothing else? "Its compatible. 
And better"

Fitz

--
Artifiction.com :: Contemporary Art & Design
http://www.artifiction.com/
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