NSW Government not giving away Linux vs Microsoft details

David M Williams
Thursday, 16 April 2009 17:54

Business IT - Technology

I’m still discontent with the shred of scanty detail supplied. Does the Lenovo/Microsoft solution weigh in at more than $500 per student? If so, will taxpayers be footing the bill?

What was the ultimate factor that quashed the shortlisted Linux solution? Presumably the DET evaluators felt it somehow lacked in multimedia capability. Now, it turns out Adobe had a hand in things too so I’m going to wager the non-existence of Photoshop for Linux had a part to play. (Actually, it is the cut-down Photoshop Elements that will be used.)

Some time ago Novell conducted a survey on the top apps Linux users would like to have and Photoshop was right up as number one. Search giant and open source advocate Google actually funded the WINE project to ensure Photoshop would run on Linux via WINE although that said, I would prefer to see a native application.

Nevertheless, was The GIMP inspected? Here’s where more information must be given by DET.

Were the Linux and Microsoft solutions genuinely compared on a truly impartial basis, with consideration given to equivalent pieces of software, regardless of brand or title? Or did someone adhere to the old adage, “You don’t get fired for choosing IBM” but substituting “Microsoft” for “IBM”?

I wouldn’t expect a private company to divulge their decision-making processes, but when it comes to Government there ought to be transparency.

Was the decision made with the best educational outcomes for senior school children? Is the cost within the budget stipulated?

Taxpayers, parents, Linux users and transparent Government advocates want to know.