Accountability is a big part of trust.  It’s easy to just type some words on a screen and hope people just believe it.  What’s even better is when someone sees an opportunity to correct someone else in the name of making everyone smarter.

Computerworld essentially tears Consumer Reports about their netbook reviews in their latest version of the magazine.  Consumer Reports left out a lot of information someone would need to know before they go out and buy a netbook.

Just as I was finishing the article, I read a line which deeply troubled me:

If you are shopping for a netbook for a child, I suggest going for Linux.

With all due respect Mr. Horowitz, please shutup.

Linux is a great choice if someone already knows what they’re doing.  If they’ve used a computer for 5-10+ years, and are well versed in how to search community sites, and find programs comparable to Windows programs Linux will suit them just fine.  For kids, high school and college students Windows XP is key.  Most children grow up using Windows machines.  For them, most of the functionality and more importantly the programs they’ll be looking to use will function without any problems on a Windows XP or Windows 7 netbook.  Once you get into Linux you get into a gray areas where you pay less for the netbook but ultimately get less out of it since Linux has much lower penetration in terms of market share and applications.

It is important to make sure whatever computer you pick up has the pluses you needed without tradeoffs which will iritate you.  Just don’t take any one person’s word about what is good and what isn’t because most opinions are seriously flawed.

1. A Real Toy Story

2. PC Decrapifier Removes The Bloatware From Netbooks

3. Lenovo Loses Love For Linux

4. Linux Fanboys Fear Windows 7

5. Android? Moblin? Linux? Poopy Poppy Pants?