[CS-FSLUG] business software etc.

[Warren Sanders]

R. Thompson wrote:

>    I would like to know if Linux software has matured to the point
>where a small business / shop could rely 100% on Linux software.  Needed
>would be:
>- Office suit - Word processing, spreadsheet, etc.
>  
>
OpenOffice of course

>- Inventory management
>  
>
ERP?  Try ABAS http://www.abas-usa.com (tell them I sent you btw)

>- Customer lists and billing
>  
>
ABAS again I suppose

>- reliable CAD software
>  
>
Hmm... not sure

>- able to work with wide format (ink jet is OK) printers
>  
>
your mileage may vary

>    Up to now I've found most Linux software wanting, unable to
>import/export reliably MS software formats, falling short on the printer
>drivers (unable to access all the printer features), spreadsheet
>software that lacked many of the feature I knew in old versions of
>Quatro Pro.  Is this because I've been trying to make free software
>work, is there supported professional software that would work?
>
>   Would it be a headache and drag a small business down trying to base
>everything on Linux?
>  
>
Depends on how adept it is to change.  Must be able to put up with matte 
finish rather than always glossy.

>   I'm thinking of setting up shop on my own, but questionable software
>could be the end of the project.
>
>   Are there (in Canada) businesses that would help set up the office /
>shop software and support it?
>
>      Thanks,
>
>             Ron T.
>  
>