The following rant comes from a recent convert from Windoze. SuSE puts together a software package that even a newbie can install in a relatively short period of time. I chose SuSE when looking at distributions because of the large collections of applications that it came bundled with. It is true that I can go out on the web download these programs for "free" (is bandwidth really free, not to mention the time to configure and install each package.) SuSE makes it easier to learn linux because the more advanced skills such as using tar and rpm ... yes there are those of us out there that are that ignorant :) ... can be learned over time after the system is up and running with a web browser, email client, and word processor. Keep up the good work SuSE. If linux is going to become mainstream then training and ease of use is critical. Long live the Penquin and the Lizard. There is nothing wrong with making a profit. After all if your household didn't make a profit how could you afford to go out to the local retaurant, movie theatre, or buy the latest piece of computer hardware :) I do feel bad for those who have lost there jobs but usually a loss such as that can lead to bigger and better opportunities. Good Luck to all who were downsized!! -end of rant- Mike
The software that Suse distribute was 99% written by people who wrote it for free and have released it under the GPL or similar license.
You buying Suse distribution does not give anything back to them.
Suse did not create Linux/GNU. They package it and include configuration facilities that they did write (and are not GPL'ed). I am not aware of any software packages that Suse have contributed back (X11 video drivers maybe ?).
It is very sad for the Suse people who lost their jobs. This can happen to anyone working for a profit-hungry company. If this event has one beneficial side-effect it may make people realise that Suse is not the cuddly darling bunch of techno-geeks kindly contributing to world improvement that some people on this list seem to think they are.
Suse GMBH is a hard-nosed bunch of businessmen seeking to maximise bucks at minimum cost.
I sincerely hope the people that Suse have just shoved on the pavement gets jobs soon. Their technical Linux expertise should not make that difficult.
My 2 pennyworth.
Cliff