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How to Promote Linux

Edited byDarrelljon and 3 others

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Promote Linux

Enjoy Linux so much you want to share it? Be aware there are good ways and bad ways to promote Linux.

Edit Steps

  1. 1
    OpenOffice.org is free, cross-platform and includes a word-processor, spreadsheet and presentation software
    OpenOffice.org is free, cross-platform and includes a word-processor, spreadsheet and presentation software
    Many Windows users start with OpenOffice.org and Firefox. Consider this approach particularly if that's how you started.
  2. 2
    Choose a target user who can trust you and ask you for support and help if things go wrong. Don't give out Linux discs at random.
  3. 3
    Before they try it, show them it working. Ideally this will be on your computer, otherwise a video or screenshots will do.
  4. 4
    Ubuntu Linux
    Ubuntu Linux
    Find out their system specifications and ensure their machine will meet the minimum specifications of the distro that you give them.
  5. 5
    OpenSuse Linux
    OpenSuse Linux
    Consider your target user. If they love something that you know they won't be able to do on Linux such as certain Windows-only games, dial-up modem users, webcams, don't bother.
  6. 6
    Know enough about Linux to know what you're talking about. The first question will probably be what is Linux?
  7. 7
    Anticipate users expecting reasons to switch to Linux. The biggest strength of Linux for the average user is its resistance to malware.
  8. 8
    Know the answers to common myths and FUD (Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt).
  9. 9
    Don't give them old unsupported obscure software. Where possible give them new popular software.
  10. 10
    First impressions count. Print a DVD cover for your distro before you distribute it.
  11. 11
    Consider helping the Public Software Foundation to get Linux and Free Software into your local (school) library.
  12. 12
    Participate in Software Freedom Day on 20th September.

Edit Tips

  • Some good promotional sites are Ubuntu Story, Works with U and Hackett and Bankswell.

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Article Info

Last edited:
February 1, 2011 by Bor

Categories:
Linux

Recent edits by: Audriusa, Maluniu, Darrelljon (see all)

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