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Dell to Sell Linux PCs TMCnet Contributing Editor Dell (News - Alert) has announced it would sell desktop and laptop computers loaded with Linux operating system, in response to online customer feedback.
The company has been looking for ways to bolster sales after several quarters of weak profits. Company CEO Michael Dell opened an online suggestion box, called DellIdeaStorm, to get new product and service ideas from their target market. The initiative, which started Feb. 16, 2007, has resulted in over 1,800 suggestions and ideas. A post suggesting that Dell should sell affordable Linux-loaded laptop computers got priority as the company announced their plan last Friday to offer desktop and laptop computers running Linux.
On its website, Dell stated, “It's exciting to see the IdeaStorm community's interest in open-source solutions like Linux and OpenOffice. Your feedback has been all about flexibility and we have seen a consistent request to provide platforms that allow people to install their operating system of choice. We are listening, and as a result, we are working with Novell (News - Alert) to certify our corporate client products for Linux, including our OptiPlex desktops, Latitude notebooks and Dell Precision workstations. This is another step towards ensuring that our customers have a good experience with Linux on our systems."
Though previous machines loaded with Linux did not sell impressively, IT analysts think that Dell should give the idea another chance.
Jon Hall, the executive director of Linux International, said. "I think it would be very worthwhile for Dell. It's always better when a hardware manufacturer works with software vendors to integrate their products for users. That's what makes a good combination. That's why Apple (News - Alert) is so good at what they do."
Beverly Maniago is a contributing editor for TMCnet. To see more of her articles, please visit her columnist page.
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