Linux in its current incarnation is an engineering marvel, delivering  speed, robustness, and effective support.  It does many things very well, from network connectivity to web serving to file sharing.  It is not yet appropriate, however, for all uses.  We hope to clarify which tools are ready for Linux and which still need to mature.

For many of us in New York who are in charge of mission-critical enterprise systems, this is an important distinction.  One of the goals of LUNY is to bring us together for an honest and realistic understanding of what Linux is and is not appropriate for at the current time.  At LUNY, we are believers in the platform and its future, but were originally attracted by its engineering qualities.  One of the ways of answering the questions about where Linux is best used is by demonstrating real, working enterprise systems.  We are gathering studies now, and if you have a good story, please contact us so that we can pass it on.

Do you disagree with any of our assesments about where Linux is inappropriate?  We would be thrilled if you proved us wrong.

Our philosophy differs somewhat from the overall Free Software mantra.  We are searching for the best solution, not just a free one, and concetrate on Linux.  Those interested primarily in free software should visit  LXNY, a great group that focuses on open-source and free software solutions.

The attention Linux has received is wonderful, and its future limitless.  Help us be responsible advocates by separating the hype from reality in keeping with the tradition of engineering, the search for the best solution.

-Matt