Professional Chaos: Dump Microsoft

Thank you Microsoft, for moving the microcomputer generation to where we are today. Now, it’s time to step aside.

Let’s face it, there are better hardware and software alternatives available. Think of it… no more blue screen of death. No more plug-n-play compatibility problems. No more boring, over architected, bloated OS and software. Free yourself from stagnation and explore alternates that are better than before.

I know, your defense mechanism is kicking in. “Give up Windows? No way–that’s crazy, liberal, hippie talk.” I used to think that way, but I was so frustrated and made a leap of faith. Looking back, I wish I had done it sooner.

My recommendations:

• Hardware: Intel-based Mac
• OS: Mac OS X
• Office Suite ($0): OpenOffice.org, gOffice.com, Writely.com, Spreadsheets.google.com (Mac or Linux)
• Browser ($0): Firefox (Mac or Linux), Opera (Mac or Linux), Camino (Mac or Linux)
• Email Client ($0): Thunderbird (Mac or Linux)
• Photo mgt ($0): iPhoto (Mac)

Plus, with a bit of research, you’ll discover freeware for all the utility applications you may need (FTP, VNC, chat/voip, etc.)

I hesitate to recommend Linux. It requires an investment of time. Sure, it can be extremely satisfying, but if you need out of the box, ready to run solutions, the Mac platform is the easier route. If you are adventurous, check out Ubunto for the easiest Linux install available.

Take inventory of your hardware and software.

Is it time for an upgrade anyway? Think about what you truly still need and what you want to be able to do. Then spend a little time looking into what is available. I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised.

I’ll wrap this up with a video you may enjoy. It’s a bit long, and yes, it is biased, but it reinforces a message. Don’t stick with something just for legacy sake. If you’ve out grown it, don’t be afraid to move on. It’s not as hard as you think.

What are your thoughts?
-Roland

10/13/2006 Update: Writely and Google Spreadsheets are now collectively known as “Google Docs & Spreadsheets.”

Roland Reinhart is an interactive marketing professional who has been abused by Microsoft Windows for way too long. His observations can be found at Chaos365.com and AdMadMan.com.

©2006 Roland Reinhart. All Rights Reserved.