[Pluto-help] I: Linux-Mandrake Community Newsletter - Mandrake Linux Future

[Giorgio Carrara]

-----Messaggio originale-----
Da: return a mandrake.org [mailto:return a mandrake.org]Per conto di Mandrake
Team
Inviato: martedì 12 marzo 2002 5.54
A: giocarra a libero.it
Oggetto: Linux-Mandrake Community Newsletter - Mandrake Linux Future

FLASH: The Future of Mandrake Linux.

Today we are on the verge of releasing Mandrake Linux 8.2. This latest
version of our flagship product introduces many new features such as
an encrypted filesystem, automatic detection of "hot-plug" devices,
refined & polished graphical user interfaces, and much more that will
be detailed in the official announcement. Judging by the response of
beta testers, we're certain that 8.2 will be a fantastic release which
will be quickly adopted by Linux users everywhere.

Even though all of us here at MandrakeSoft are excited about the
upcoming release, we've also been distracted by financial concerns.
Despite continuous good reviews in the press; despite having millions
of users throughout the world; despite producing an award-winning Linux
distribution that is a solid competitor to both UNIX and Window$, the
Mandrake Linux distribution's short-term future is in jeopardy due to a
simple factor: money.

As a company, we make our revenue by selling packaged versions of the
distribution and by delivering services such as consulting, training,
etc. -- but our development costs and community-based services are not
yet covered by income. It is estimated that we will "break even" by the
end of 2002, but it is unlikely that MandrakeSoft can remain unchanged
during these next few months without drastically cutting costs unless
additional revenue is generated quickly.

The issue that we are discussing concerns the short-term future only.
Since mid-year of 2001, our service and product activities have
increased dramatically -- enhanced by the growing confidence of several
distinguished companies. Since MandrakeSoft's revenue continues to grow
and the company remains on target to become profitable at the end of
2002, it would be a real loss and a great disservice to the huge
community of users for us to cut positions to meet short-term goals
when the future looks so bright.

The company's long term prospect are very good, but we are still paying
for the "sins" of the previous management. Even when the company
becomes profitable, it is important that users have a loud voice to
remind management and investors that the "community" has been -- and
should always remain -- a crucial part of MandrakeSoft's success. As
we've said before, a company that is mostly controlled by business
people & investors would be drastically different than if controlled by
its users.


How can you help?
--------------------------------------
A solution to the short-term dilemma of keeping our large community of
users happy while also generating revenue is the recently launched
"Mandrake Linux Users Club" and "Corporate Club". Both of these
initiatives provide a simple yet cost effective way for Mandrake users
to support the continued development of the distribution and the
company's Free Software projects. In addition, members also receive
special privileges.


The Mandrake Linux Users Club.

Millions of people use Mandrake Linux each and every day, already 2,000
have joined the Club so far. With the rate at which new members are
joining, we should have over 10,000 paying members in one year. Although
this is wonderful news, one year may be too late -- we need new members
now to help us through the next few months.

Entry-level membership to the Mandrake Users Club is only $5 per month,
which is less than one ticket to the movies. Is the future of the
Mandrake Linux distribution worth that much to you? If yes, then don't
delay -- join the Club today.


The Mandrake Linux Corporate Club.

If your company uses Mandrake Linux in its day-to-day operations,
membership in the Corporate Club offers special recognition and
exclusive corporate benefits. Join a distinguished roster of worldwide
businesses who support MandrakeSoft with a corporate membership of
$2,500 and up.

We firmly believe that if the entire community of users is mobilized we
can easily get past this current situation. Thousands of Mandrake users
may only need a slight "push" before deciding to join the Club. If this
describes you, now is the perfect opportunity to join. Since this
message will reach only a small number of Mandrake Linux users, please
help spread the word. And if you know of any fellow Mandrake users, you
could be the one to give them the push they are waiting for.

Make a difference and join the Club today so that the distribution can
continue to remain free and true to the Open Source spirit.

--

Discover the Mandrake Users Club:
http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/club/

Learn about the Mandrake Corporate Club:
http://www.linux-mandrake.com/en/club/corpo.php3

Financial results of the company:
http://www.mandrakesoft.com/company/investors/newsletter

Comments at MandrakeForum:
http://www.mandrakeforum.com/article.php?sid=1989<=en



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