Re: [Fwd: Linux in high schools.]

[Dirk Bartley <bartleyd2@xxxxxxxxxxxx>]

Scott Van Singel wrote:

> 
> It is great to see so much excitement on the Linux issue in school systems.
> There have been many questions on what and how can Linux be used in a School
> environment. Many people have given some good ideas but, I can not use them because
> of the limits at this point.
> Here are some things that I need, and if Linux can accomplish this than I might be
> able to use it.
> Below are the systems and programs that I need and what requirements that I am
> looking for.
> 
> Emial:
> 1. The ability to share folders, calendar, and group lists.

It sounds like you are looking for a near 'drop in replacement' for exchange. 
You may want to look at HP's open mail which is NOT free software.  Although I
heard a rumor that you can get something like 50 clients or less at no cost.  It
is possible to get most all of the functionality of exchange for free, but some
of that functionality will come from a web interface and in a number of
components.  Hopefully some other people will chime in here and be more specific
about those components.

Specifically if outlook 2k is the client I have succeded in getting an LDAP
server to be a directory of names and addresses which is essentially shared.  M$
has succeded in making it less functional with the outlook client then using
exchange.

> 2. Able to use aliases for email, a nice way to have a list.

Sendmail can be administered to have aliases and lists which propogate to
multiple useres.  It just does not have a graphical interface for administration
that looks like exchage.

> 3. The mail needs to be read from the work place (with the email client:  IE:
> Outlook or Eudora) and with a web interface. This will allow teachers at conferences
> to read the email and not have to configure a email client when they travel.

If all of the users are set up be IMAP clients then yes it would be possible to
have a web interface to read e-mail.  I have never set it up.  There is a
package that was recommended to me did not come up on a search i just did. 
Maybe Bruce will be willing to remind me.

Dirk