That 'one' piece of software I need

Wise words from tante:

But let us look at the people claiming that they need Photoshop on Linux and they'd switch. From my experience those people often don't really use the power of Photoshop, it's just the tool they use for rather simple tasks. Why? Cause it's free. When "a friend" sets a new computer up for someone they'll more often than not slap all kinds of pirated software on there, just cause Windows doesn't really come with a lot of software: You will get a pirated MS Office, pirated Photoshop and all kinds of other "expensive" software. Why? Because when something is expensive, it's also "good". It's a very common perception that a software that you have to pay 300 Euro for is better than one that's free. Not cause you know why or cause you need some feature, it's just cause those programs feel like they are worth something.

Having spent some time talking to someone who 'really needed' multiple copies of Microsoft project this week and free alternatives just weren't the same because they were free. Go and read the whole article!

Software Freedom day in Manchester

Software freedom day is on Saturday.
Manchester is organising (we hope!) The release says:

The event will take place at the Marbella Cafe on Newton Street from 11am to 4pm. Everyone is welcome and there will be plenty of people there who are learning about free software for the first time. We will be giving away CDs, leaflets and stickers. I'm also told that the cafe serves great food (veggie and vegan friendly).

We will have a number of Internet connected PCs available, which will be used to demonstrate LTSP. The Linux Terminal Server Project (LTSP) is designed to be used on low powered machines and so is brilliant for reusing old computers in schools or community projects. We will have information available about how this is being used successfully in schools, including one which went on to gain specialist technology status as a result.

Not seen that cakeshop yet....I hope to recify that!
Tante has a good summary of Copyright and patent issues at the Gay Bar