According to the rumor, IBM would slim the Aurora package down by removing a
few of the high end parts and let someone else handle distribution and (it would
seem) support of the trimmed client. If this is true, (a large "if"?)
it should be something any OS/2 aficionado *should* love.
Why is that a problem? I have seen, no doubt you have too, a few people complain
that they wouldn't want so-and-so (let's use "Joe's Software" as an example)
to maintain distribution of a new Warp client. Does it really make a difference?
Do they think that "Joe's Software" will bastardize the system by changing
it, customizing it or otherwise introduce all manner of problems and distribute
something not even a mother could love?
I'd hate to burst bubbles but I don't think this is what is in store if this
rumor does come to pass. Contrary to the feelings of a select few, IBM is not some
big dumb lummox on a grade school playground and Joe isn't the snivelling weasel.
It is in IBM's best interest to see the system be as stable and unadulterated as
possible even if they do not handle support. Their name is on the package and that
in itself is reason for them to be careful about what they would allow to happen
to it. If IBM did allow additions/modifications to the OS I would have to believe
that these changes would be looked at very carefully by IBM. Perhaps with closer
scrutiny than they place upon themselves.
Although I am not privy to any inside information, it is much more likely that
a new distributor may be able to add what were referred to as "Bonuspack"
applications in Warp v3 as well as distributing apps from other developers too.
That would more than likely be completely separate from the OS and actually quite
desirable. The people that like "Joe's Software" would be able to access
his software (or his demos) easily and the few that have problems with Joe or anyone
else could use their "Bonuspack" as a coaster or a mini frizbee for their
pet squirrel.
As OS/2 user/advocates our greatest hope lies in IBM offering a personal or SOHO
Warp package through a third party. Only this method will provide a distributor
that has wide distribution in mind as one of his base interests. The benefit a wider
distribution would provide to IBM's acceptance in the marketplace I believe are
obvious while this method also removes the millstone of support from them.
Can you have your cake and eat it too? I believe IBM can if their prospective
distributor can manage that same millstone that IBM has cast aside.
Whether it is "Joe's Software" or "Bill's SoftWare" should
make no difference to the end user. Will they make money? I sure hope so, if they
can't, there is no reason for them to distribute it either. I *do* believe IBM is
serious about this. I also believe that given the current climate in the computing
landscape, a move like this will certainly bring new users to OS/2. When (not "if"?)
it happens, there will be an even stronger need for groups like VOICE and individuals
like you that are willing to share their knowledge. This means that YOU, dear reader,
will be one of the guru's.
Wayne Swanson
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email: Psoft@Tech-Center.com
PillarSoft: http://fm-net.com/pillarsoft
Developers of WarpZip, ShowTime/2 and the Enhanced E Editors
Vice President, V.O.I.C.E. (Virtual OS/2 International Consumer Education)
VOICE: http://www.os2voice.org
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