[ale] Notes from Jun 19th meeting

[Geoffrey]

Brian Pitts wrote:
> Geoffrey wrote:
>> I don't know if you were at the meeting, but the application originally 
>> being discussed, Printshop comes with thousands of graphics.  Although 
>> your suggestion of inkscape might be a better solution then the one 
>> you've referenced, it's simply not a solution to the original problem.
> 
> Wait, they can't switch because the application provides clipart? Is
> this really dire enough to veto a platform switch?

The whole subject is getting distorted.  I never once suggested that it 
was a reason for not switching platforms.  Further, I stated it was an 
application that my wifed used AT HOME.

The reason I brought the issue up was to suggest that it might be a 
stumbling block in efforts to try to get schools to switch.

> If they already have a license for this software, perhaps the artwork
> itself could simply be transferred over to linux. If that won't work,
> instead of buying the next version of this software the school district
> could buy some clipart. There might be enough good free art out there to
> make even that unnecessary.

There might.  Believe me, I've been that route.  I've put more time into 
trying to resolve this single issue then anyone can possibly imagine.

I was at one time a crossover office advocate for Printshop.  I've 
attempted to install three different versions of this application under 
Crossover Office and wine.

You have to see the application to understand the issues.  It just plain 
does what they want and there's no easy solution.  I've looked at 
combinations of GIMP, inkscape, presents, scribus and the list goes on.

So I would appreciate it if folks would keep the proper focus on the 
original issue.  I fully support the idea of Linux in schools.  I've 
been this route in Cobb County, but as Daniel demonstrated at the 
meeting, you've got to get buy in, at least at the school level.  He has 
been fortunate enough to have the right mix of folks and got things 
going.  The key is, get it in the door.  It's that first step that's the 
most difficult.

-- 
Until later, Geoffrey

Those who would give up essential Liberty, to purchase a little
temporary Safety, deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.
  - Benjamin Franklin