[luau] NEWS: E-Mexico favors Windows over Linux

[Warren Togami]

http://www.idg.net/ic_874685_6137_1-3133.html

While Linux is being embraced by a number of governments thanks to its
perceived flexibility, relative security and bargain basement price, some
open-source proponents are still finding it a hard sell when pitted against
the reputation and resources of major vendors.

Such is the case in Mexico, where an ambitious government project to build
out the country's IT infrastructure and move its 100 million citizens online
by 2006 is being sponsored in large part by Microsoft Corp. Through a series
of deals, the software maker has agreed to invest an estimated $100 million
in software and training for tens of thousands of teachers, technicians and
professionals.

...

Despite general agreement that open-source technologies would be more
flexible and cost efficient, Mexico's Linux revolution was quashed after Fox
met with Microsoft Chairman Bill Gates, according to de Icaza.

"Bill Gates flew down to Mexico, and they announced a donation of $30
million dollars ... and Linux was dropped," de Icaza said.