I dont think this will benefit Linux- and the people in MA will freak out when they suddenly are told they cannot use Microsoft Word anymore
You are probably right. In my opinion, Linux is a much better OS but much more difficult to navigate and the users will have to endure a very steep learning curve.
> I dont think this will benefit Linux-
It won't immediately. They may continue to run Windows
(or OSX for that matter), and can use the free Open
Office suite on those platforms. But once everything
you do can be done on Linux, the price tag starts to
get your attention.
> ... and the people in MA will freak out when they
> suddenly are told they cannot use Microsoft Word anymore.
Doubtful. I've been present at major WP transitions
before (Lotus to MS), and no one went postal.
MS will eventually come around on this. It's a very
straightforward matter for them to support open XML-
based document standards. They've just chosen to
screw it up for strategic reasons (trying to keep
their proprietary formats dominant).
Oh, they can still use Micro$oft Word. But now they can use OpenOffice, Ajax, and other software. Ironically I am sure Democraps may push for this as more people can use inexpensive software to apply for goverment money. No having to worry becuase your crack whore constituants have an old version of Micro$soft office to try and file for a grant for 'perfomace art'.
It's only government offices AFAIK.(i'll go back and read to double check)
They can use word at home all they like.