Winpdb - A Platform Independent Python Debugger The Normalized Decline of Free Software
Take a look at these two graphs from “Google Insights”. They show an ongoing decline of GPL, GNU and Linux in normalized search volume:
http://www.google.com/insights/search/#q=gpl%2Cgnu%2Cebook%2Copen%20source&cmpt=q
http://www.google.com/insights/search/#q=linux%2Cpc%2Candroid&cmpt=q
One possible interpretation is the decline of the desktop and rise of smart phones and digital consumerism, but note the search term PC is stable in the second graph. Another possible interpretation is that GNU/Linux people are the “early adopters” of the Internet and the decline is expected as the Internet reaches more and more people, but nevertheless I don’t like these graphs at all.
I think myself we are on the verge of a boom in the use of GPL software, the people want an option like it but: 1. many don’t know about it, and 2. many that do are intimidated by it, thinking it to technical, something only for advanced computer users. The answer to this is 1. patch together a press campaign to boost its image (think grass roots even), and 2. make a sub sect of software that is geared to not so advanced users, like Ubuntu is trying. I use Ubuntu, but i still wouldn’t set my 65 year old friend with it because they are still not advanced enough, even though they would love some of what it offers. I also wouldn’t set my friend that is 30 something but can barely use windows. I have explored the options with them, and the best i can come up with is let them practice on my computer, and do small teaching to them, still what they really want is hassle free.