Even Bill Gates Likes Free Software
Below is a MRR and PLR article in category Business -> subcategory Sales.
Why Even Bill Gates Appreciates Free Software
Summary:
Thousands of businesses are saving money with Linux. Open-source software, freely available, is driving servers, desktops, and laptops, powering crucial hardware, and delivering robust business functionality daily.
Article Body:
Linux is a cost-saving powerhouse for businesses. Its applications run servers, desktops, and laptops in companies large and small. In our own business, we utilize open-source software across our websites, support modules, CRM, and accounting systems, all distributed for free.
Linux enthusiasts are unique. They don't just seek power and functionality; they value the principle of free software distribution. While they respect Microsoft?"as it has hugely impacted lives with applications like Office?"they view pricey software with burdensome upgrade fees as outdated.
Bill Gates Predicts a Shift in Software Delivery
Microsoft frequently updates its operating systems and applications, often making backward compatibility, like with Word, challenging by design. This approach relies on creating and then alleviating pain to drive upgrades and boost revenue. Yet, this model is becoming antiquated as free, fully-supported software rises in prominence. Bill Gates himself has acknowledged the shift toward online and free application delivery models.
Choosing the Right Linux Distribution
Linux distributions vary, each with its unique features. Ubuntu, for example, is nudging Windows off desktops due to its easy deployment and user-friendly interface, offering a wealth of applications for both home and business users. Ubuntu’s market presence is growing rapidly?"what once required a microscope to see now needs just a magnifying glass. It’s quick to install with downloadable software and offers a tailored experience post-setup. Tools like apt-get or the Add Software GUI simplify obtaining the best Linux applications.
Ubuntu’s Comprehensive Suite
Ubuntu includes an office suite compatible with Microsoft formats, enabling seamless integration. It comes bundled with rich graphics apps, CD/DVD tools, multimedia players, backup utilities, antivirus solutions, and top-tier networking applications. It also offers built-in VOIP, messaging clients, and efficiency tools like Sticky Notes.
Free Business Applications with Linux
GNU Cash rivals Quicken in financial tracking, handling invoicing, bank accounts, budget management, and cash flow reporting. For telephony, Elastix uses Asterisk to provide a cost-effective PBX solution, offering features like VOIP and predictive dialers.
Content Management and More
Need a content management system? Plone, Drupal, and Joomla offer robust, free alternatives to expensive CMS software. Supported by guides and community resources, these tools are easily accessible.
For CRM, DataForceCRM delivers a powerful, low-cost SugarCRM derivative, saving businesses significant costs. It includes wikis, forums, documentation, and boasts high user adoption. It integrates with Outlook, manages marketing, tracks sales, monitors inventory, and offers easy order management. Companies can access it for free if they have fewer than ten users, with affordable options for larger teams.
OTRS provides an open-source support module for customer service, featuring a professional-grade trouble ticket system.
The Rise of Virtualization
Virtualization, a growing trend in IT, optimizes resource use by turning a single computer into multiple virtual machines. Ubuntu facilitates this with Xen, and installation is a breeze with simple commands like `apt-get install vmware-server`.
The Expanding Linux Ecosystem
Linux's growth is explosive. In the time taken to write this article, new applications have likely emerged. SourceForge.net, a hub for Linux tools, is bustling with valuable additions. For instance, free PDF editing tools are just a quick search away. Even enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions are available without cost. Linux support once catered to the tech-savvy, but now it's accessible to everyone.
Conclusion:
Proper training and support enhance the value of free applications. While the learning curve might be steep, smart open-source companies offer extensive support solutions, including wikis, live chat, forums, and more. As user communities grow, peer support becomes invaluable. When I recently faced a virtual machine issue, a quick online search provided the solution faster than contacting support.
Learning new technology can be intimidating, but the Linux community is committed to user-friendliness. Open-source software is easy to deploy, use, and support. Explore the resources mentioned to see the incredible potential savings?"and perhaps become a Linux enthusiast yourself.
You can find the original non-AI version of this article here: Even Bill Gates Likes Free Software.
You can browse and read all the articles for free. If you want to use them and get PLR and MRR rights, you need to buy the pack. Learn more about this pack of over 100 000 MRR and PLR articles.