Most of the countries with developing economies use pirate Windows operating systems on corporate and home PCs. Majority of computer users in such countries do not even know about the Linux. This session looks at a Ubuntu Linux promotion strategy in developing economies using Central Asian countries as an example. Reasons for using Ubuntu:

Cheap and legal solution: Ubuntu is free, and will be free, thus, corporate and home users get a legal and free OS solution for their computers.

Get maximum from OS: Ubuntu comes with preinstalled tools for office work, media, entertainment, video, music, etc. Just install and start using without being afraid of viruses, Trojans, and copyrights.

The strategy discussion:

1. Encouraging and helping companies and individuals in developing economies on launching a kind of ‘Ubuntu development centers’, where everyone could receive a copy of Ubuntu CD or come with his/her computer to the center and get Ubuntu installed by specialists;

2. Free training for everyone on how to use Ubuntu Linux;

3. Working with government officials on installation of Ubuntu in government structures (get paid only for tech support)

4. Conduct promotional campaigns like ‘be legal….use Ubuntu’ or ‘empower your computer – use Ubuntu’.

The strategy should result in a rapid raise of Ubuntu use in such developing economies that will later lead to multiple development and support centers that can earn money from rendering tech support.