Linux Basement Presents: Chad’s Blog

Software Freedom Day

Tomorrow is software freedom day. For several years now, at about this time of year, I reintroduce myself with a great project called OpenDisc. OpenDisc is a free and open CD that has an amazing list of open source software available for windows users. Some of the software includes juggernauts like:

OpenOffice

Blender

Gimp

Firefox

Audacity

VLC

But there are also little jewels on here, which is where I think this project shines. I think just about anyone can open this disc up, and get interested in some of the smaller projects on here, such as:

Dia - a great diagram creator

PDFcreator - turn just about anything into a PDF.

WorkRave - get up and get some excersize at work! Great for office workers.

I’m not doing this disk justice by listing only these programs. Head over to http://www.theopendisc.com/programs/ to see the full list.

So why is Chad the Linux guy mentioning programs for windows? Well, for one, these programs flaunt serious cross-platform capabilities, and anyone running linux can install these. Secondly, Software freedom, and software freedom day is not all about linux. Its about seeing the free and open choices for all of your programs. Did you know there are free and open choices for Photoshop users (gimp) and CAD users (openCAD, others)? These alternatives are not for everyone, and will not fit every scenario, but isn’t it worth a look?

The reason I got into Linux is because a very wise person once said, “Why limit yourself to the mediocrity that is Windows?” As jaunty of a statement as that my seem, it had a profound impact on how I look at the computing world. Why do you limit yourself to the mediocrity that is Internet Explorer? But it goes far beyond impacting the mediocre. The truth is, Free and Open Source software is quickly becoming prevelant in every facet of business and education. Do you want to keep up with the times?

There is also, of course, the entire philosophical question that comes along with this. In truth, it is not bad to run proprietary software. This is your choice, and it would be hypocritical to say you could not have choice, when that is exactly what we are promoting. But why not look at these wonderful alternatives, and find the wealth of knowledge that comes along with them. The free and open philosophy is truly an amazing cultural phenomenon. The user actually has an opportunity to say what can and can not go into these projects, get involved with documentation, promotion, or coding. Don’t like what you see? Take the code and start your own project. With Open software there are no limitations.

All of this coupled with the fact that this software can make you more productive in your daily life, while not having to spend any money on it. It’s time to take the plunge and try this software out. There are many other applications that follow the same philosophy, so if you like what you see, begin to talk a look around. If you are like me, and already love free and open software, then burn this disc, and hand it to someone for a test run.

After all, tomorrow is software freedom day.

Tags: Software Fredom Day