Re: Table at computer sales

[Bruce Smith <bruce@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

> >I am happy to see positive support on the computer show idea.  I understand
> >selling klug shirts my be a little impractical, however I do believe
> >that we would be in the right to sell CD'S.
> We merely need to work out some details; anything is possible within some
> broad limits. We don't need to sell shirts, and we could sell (and give
> away) some other items as well.
> 
> My point here is that we need to think this through carefully. One effect
> that I don't think we want is to discourage vendors from selling Linux
> distros or Linux software at all. By selling our own product, we are in
> effect under-cutting them, and they can't do anything about it! I'm not
> against selling CD's, but there are ways to present this that will not have
> the chilling effect I'm concerned about. Ultimately, we can lead the
> interested vendors towards carrying more up-to-date Linux products.

If we get the table for free, like a very old agreement we had with them,
then I agree, we should not compete with the paying vendors.  

OTOH, if we have to pay for a table, just like other vendors, then they
should expect a little competition from us, just like other paying vendors.

We're not undercutting the market in whole, as you can buy CD copies on the 
internet very cheap.  And, there is value in the boxed sets, like support 
and books that come with them.  We're offering a cheaper product that does 
not include some of the added value.

Also, there is nothing to say we have to charge normal BSware prices.
The web page says those prices are only valid for people who pick up CD's
at meetings.  We can bump up the price for the computer sale.  If someone 
wants BSware prices, they can come to a meeting to pick up their CD(s).

> >Bob: you stated that there are other vendors selling linux there at
> >computer shows.
> Yes, I watch for this very carefully, for exactly the sort of thing we're
> talking about. I've also talked to vendors about how much volume they see
> in moving Linux software.

How much are the moving?

--------------------------------------------
Bruce Smith                bruce@armintl.com
System Administrator / Network Administrator
Armstrong International, Inc.
Three Rivers, Michigan  49093  USA
http://www.armstrong-intl.com/
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