siness Market ............ x
Linux Survival in the Small Business Market ............... x
Conclusion ................................................ x
References ................................................ x
This study examines the competition between the Linux open source operating system and the Microsoft Windows operating system for the small business market. Linux has made inroads in the operating systems markets for large private sector companies and government. This study, however, focuses on the small business sector, where the market inroads by Linux are just beginning to develop.
The findings of this study are presented in nine principal discussions, reviews, examinations, and assessments. These major sections of the study are as follows:
An examination leading to an Understanding of Linux
A review of Linux Development for Small Business
An examination Comparing Linux and Microsoft Windows
A discussion of the Benefits to Small Business of Using Linux
An examination of Case Studies of UK Small Business Adoption of Linux
An assessment of the Decision Issues Associated with a Switch to Linux by small businesses
An examination of Linux Penetration in the Small Business Market
An assessment of the issue of Linux Survival in the Small Business Market
ôClosed sourceö programming produces the traditional factory-production model of proprietary software. With this type of software, the user receives a sealed block of bits that cannot be examined, modified or evolved. Microsoft represents the epitome of closed source programming.
In contrast to closed source programming, ôopen sourceö programming makes the source code of software products available for inspection, independent peer review, and rapid evolution through cooperative and collaborative development. The Linux operating system is the epitome of open source programming.
Historically, high levels reliabili...