While Linux has long offered the Siren song of cost savings
through free software, most organizations plugged their ears and sailed on with
the ubiquitous Microsoft, unwilling to dive into the complexity of conversion
or to face angry users deprived of the familiar programs on their desktops. But
as administrators continue to struggle with mounting security concerns, an
avalanche of Microsoft patches, and the ongoing complexity of licensing, Linux is emerging as
a serious contender in the enterprise.

Evaluating a switch to Linux

We’ve gathered some more in-depth resources that tout the
potential benefits of a move to Linux.

  • Exploiting
    the Potential of Linux
    This white paper from Computer Associates gives a general overview of
    Linux and discusses the reasons why you should consider integrating it
    into a heterogeneous IT environment. The benefits include optimization of
    resources, better service, and lower costs.
  • Managing
    and Deploying Software in a Linux Environment
    Systems programmers familiar with IBM’s mainframe operating systems expect
    to have certain software installation and maintenance tools, primarily
    SMP/E and SES. These tools are not available in the Open Source/Linux
    world, and some of the maintenance practices and concepts they represent
    are not available either. This paper from BMC Software examines the
    differences as well as similarities in tools, philosophy, and practices
    between the Mainframe and Open Source/Linux worlds, and some of the
    challenges they present.
  • The
    Strategic Value of Moving to Linux
    This Novell white paper addresses the major concerns that business and IT
    executives have expressed about developing and implementing a Linux
    strategy. This white paper also describes how the Novell Linux strategy
    can help organizations successfully transition to an open source operating
    system that will improve efficiency and reduce operating costs.

Linux reality check

For an opposing view, though not exactly an unbiased one,
check out this recent
interview with Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer. For more balance, you might
want to read this industry
analysis from TechNewsWorld.