I almost hate to ask this question since I’m sure that there are people waiting to beat up on MS. However, I would like to know what factors should be considered in a Linux desktop deployment.
Here’s the scenario:
Large company. Looking at building Linux desktops mainly for help desk and service support (about 400 desktops). 80% of the current apps being used are telnet into Linux servers anyway. Another 10% of their job is using Netscape. The other 10% of their jobs are currently on MS Word (simple users, not power users) and GroupWise email.
We’re talking about using Red Hat, Star Office and one of the default email systems as a replacement to our current arrangement.
The OS costs are obvious. Where are the hidden costs? Do non-power users really need transition training to go from Word to Star Office? Has anyone changed email systems and found that they had training issues? Is there a problem with desktop support for these people? Do MS desktop support peoplehave a hard time making the transition to Linux or is that just a bad rumor?