For Linux to successfully take root and become a part of the mainstream, it will inevitably require the backing of some large corporate efforts. By all means, Austin is at the forefront of these trends and this is well underway.

First mention, of course, goes to Dell who is leading an organic approach to bringing Linux into the enterprise, certifying and factory-installing Linux on its entire line of Servers and Workstations. As well, in conjunction with Dell, Oracle has opened a Linux center in Austin. IBM's Linux Technology Center, though virtual in nature, is affiliated and centered in Austin. HP and Intel both obviously also have a presence in Austin, and likely do work with Linux here, though I am unaware of any specific efforts (let me know).

Less commercial entities like South By Southwest also have a Linux-twang bringing in the likes of Richard Stallman, founder of Gnu, while also using Linux to stream audio from some of the many SXSW music peformances going on this week. Also worthy of mention are the ongoing Linux Top Gun events which attempt to turn hacking into a spectator sport. Good luck on that one.

So, Linux may not be ready to pervade the home of your neighbor next door, but if concentrated efforts like these continue, it can't be far off. It's nice to be living in a city progressive enough to drive this.

By Gary at 01:16 PM in Linux | Comments (1)  

Don't forget the EFF-Austin Open Source posse! We're looking at how to push Austin-area OS in positive directions through simple activity (ex. OS Show-and-Tell dinner).

Posted by: davidnunez at March 16, 2003 03:38 PM