I’m curious to the answers out there: What is holding back #Linux for desktop? #opensource #ubuntu
@engineerminded The #Linux developers and users who refuse to believe that some Linux users have no knowledge of, experience in, or desire to learn computer programming. Therefore, when something doesn't work and a user has problems, they are expected to spend hours searching the Internet for answers, because if they dare ask in a Linux forum someone will accuse them of wanting to be spoon-fed the answers (and what is wrong with that anyway?). Most computer users are just that - users. Most people don't want to be computer programmers or system administrators any more than most automobile drivers want to be auto mechanics or racing technicians.
In short most users don't fit into the Linux mindset. If a #Windows or #Mac user is having a problem nobody tells them to "send code", that only happens in Linux-related forums. This IS gradually changing (especially when people find out that most Linux upgrades are completed in less than five minutes) but still it is the people who love Linux the most that send the message that "just plain users" aren't welcome, and that is what drives people back to Windows or #MacOS.
@samurro wrote:
> You will never be happy with #linux if you don't try to solve problems by yourself.
You just made my point for me. That very common attitude among #Linux users is exactly why Linux on the desktop is not more popular.
Most people don't want to have to "solve problems" just to be able to use their computer. People use computers to get stuff done, or for entertainment, or other tasks that have nothing to do with solving problems (at least not computer-related problems). I realize that some Linux users find solving computer-related problems enjoyable and mentally challenging, but the majority of the population will never share that view. And that is a big reason why Linux on the desktop is still not really a big thing, at least not the way it would be if Linux people would realize that "just plain users" exist and not insult them or denigrate them for not finding enjoyment in solving computer-related problems.
@Lunatech while i've liked your toot, i'll also point out that there are no systems without problems; some vendors teach users to either ignore problems or «fix» them by reinstalling os and only actually fix a small subset...
...while linux heads exactly the other way: developers actually listen to users (who are active enough to vocalize their problems properly) and the os lets one try and fix most of minor ones.
so that's why i
a) stopped caring about the mainstream &
b) love linux.
=)
@Lunatech @samurro @engineerminded unfortunately,this is true. I've been linux user for 15years,but the more I use it(and love it),the more often i have to say that forcing terminal down users throat is the biggest repelent in broader acceptance of linux as desktop OS. I can use it, but total newbies are simply mortified by even thinking about opening it.
And then there another group who send screenshots with comments "look what my terminal can do/looks like". Talk about self sabotage...
@Lunatech @engineerminded I think you are missing the point, I didn't say or imply that working with computers should mean to tinker/solve problems by yourself. I implied that if you want to use #linux then you have to get your hands dirty at some point! Linux is freedom, there is no unification, standards or defaults. Thats the blessing and the curse.
I think if you just want to browse some webpages, check emails and play some mediafiles, linux can be fine without much need for tinkering.