[oclug] Computer Programmers Rally for Bill

[Francis J. A. Pinteric]

On Sat, 17 Aug 2002 11:25:51 -0400
Chris Herrnberger <chris123 at magma.ca> wrote:

> On August 17, 2002 11:17 am, Tom Trottier wrote:
> <snip>
> > More, there's a referendum in California to mandate state use of open
> > source software!
> 
> And there is much discussion whether this "approach" is good on not on 
> slashdot and oreilly. Basically the discussion is focused on one of the
> main tenants of OSS that being freedom of choice and whether legislative
> processes that restrict users to source accessible software vendors
> restricts that tenant, namely the freedom to choose. Interesting
> discussion.
> 
> see: http://www.oreillynet.com/pub/wlg/1840  <references within>

That's really a false distinction because as soon as you choose a
proprietary solution your ability to choose ends. You are no longer in 
control for support, improvements, customization, documentation, and so
forth. The only choice you really have after that is to change vendors and
completely abandon the proprietary solution, which for many is no choide
at all. With OSS, your ability to choose is in no way diminished. You may
choose to stay with a vendor or go elsewhere for support.

>>>--fja->

-- 
"He who falls away from the doctrine and faith of the Catholic Church
 would not be, nor would even be called, a Christian." (St. Athanasius)