Contributor MarkReynolds
Select Audio Device More Easily
Written by Klau3 the 21 Feb 10 at 11:51.
Related project: Gnome .
New
This suggestion aims at improving a usability issue in GNOME audio device selection. Right now (Lucid Liynx), you have to go under preferences if you want to change the audio output device.
Today a lot of people use more than one audio device -> PC speakers & headset. For me it doesn't feel right the way it is right now. Changing sound output is something common that I do many times a day and I don't like to always have to go under preferences.
Preferences are for me more like a place I go to once when configuring a program, but not where I go every time I use my PC.
515
votes
526
17
11
Solution #1:
Create a searchbar for gedit like in Firefox
Written by
ubbrainy the 14 Mar 10 at 22:05.
Something like this: http://www.mozilla-europe.org/img/en/tignish/features/find.png
It's much easier to handle, stays open, and doesn't bother you...
72
votes
89
20
17
Solution #2:
Solution #1 + add "search all files" option
Written by
annex666 the 26 Mar 10 at 12:40.
I often find myself editing a number of files at once and think an option to search in all files would be really useful - rather than having to search in each file separately.
I often find myself editing a number of files at once and think an option to search in all files would be really useful - rather than having to search in each file separately.
86
votes
100
9
14
Solution #3:
Also Include a Settings Dropdown
Like #1, but also include a dropdown that'll extend the box to include the usual options such as 'match case' and 'match entire word only'.
Like #1, but also include a dropdown that'll extend the box to include the usual options such as 'match case' and 'match entire word only'.
<img src="http://dl.dropbox.com/u/1217030/Ubuntu%20Brainstorm/Chrome%20Find%20Dropdown.png" />
68
votes
89
10
21
Solution #4:
Also add a Replace Feature
Like #1, but also add a similar feature for the find and replace dialogue.
Like #1, but also add a similar feature for the find and replace dialogue.
<img src="http://dl.dropbox.com/u/1217030/Ubuntu%20Brainstorm/Chrome%20Find%20Replace.png" />
-2
votes
6
2
8
Solution #5:
Integrate GNOME DO into Nautilus
Written by
SuNk8 the 11 Apr 10 at 09:43.
GNOME Do is quite popular. So, instead of creating another application, we could simply integrate GNOME DO Search into Nautilus. That was we can search not only our files but also all our bookmarks, mail and such other stuff.
And if I'm not mistaken, GNOME DO is maintained by Canonical and is under heavy development.
GNOME Do is quite popular. So, instead of creating another application, we could simply integrate GNOME DO Search into Nautilus. That was we can search not only our files but also all our bookmarks, mail and such other stuff.
And if I'm not mistaken, GNOME DO is maintained by Canonical and is under heavy development.
Ubuntu Software Center doesn't show whether a project is still in development
Written by Menti the 28 Jan 10 at 21:41.
Global category: System.
New
Knowing how active a software project is can be an interesting factor when evaluating its installation, especially if comparing two different alternatives. Certainly there are old programs that are still good alternatives; but as a general rule, users would prefer to use software that is up to date and avoid projects that are no longer in development.
What information could USC display to indicate if a project is active or dead?
Solution #1:
Show the date that the package was built
Written by
Menti the 28 Jan 10 at 21:41.
Besides other metadata such as the version number, support, etc, the date that the package was built could be shown.
Besides other metadata such as the version number, support, etc, the date that the package was built could be shown.
Solution #2:
Show the date that the source code was released
Written by
Menti the 28 Jan 10 at 21:45.
Conceptually, the release of the code would be a lot more precise than the building of the package to indicate if the project is in active development. However, I don't know if that information is easily available and manageable to be dropped into USC.
Conceptually, the release of the code would be a lot more precise than the building of the package to indicate if the project is in active development. However, I don't know if that information is easily available and manageable to be dropped into USC.
Solution #3:
Show richer information
Written by
Menti the 28 Jan 10 at 21:54.
Whatever could be feasible and nice to have. For example:
-102 days since last version
-23 days since last security update
Whatever could be feasible and nice to have. For example:
-102 days since last version
-23 days since last security update
Solution #4:
Just warn the user when the package is really old
Written by
Menti the 11 Feb 10 at 00:24.
What I would like USC to do for me is suggesting that a certain program could be no longer in development. So I wouldn't invest time creating data for that program that I might not be able to export to another program (for example, because the first one uses its own specialized data format).
Maybe a "sensible" limit could be set and warn the user when the package has not been updated for longer than that. Within that program's page in USC, a simple line could appear:
"This program has not been updated by its developers for more than two years."
I don't know if there are a lot of packages in Ubuntu that are old and get no updates, but are in use and there is no reason to avoid. Abundance of such packages would render this solution useless.
What I would like USC to do for me is suggesting that a certain program could be no longer in development. So I wouldn't invest time creating data for that program that I might not be able to export to another program (for example, because the first one uses its own specialized data format).
Maybe a "sensible" limit could be set and warn the user when the package has not been updated for longer than that. Within that program's page in USC, a simple line could appear:
"This program has not been updated by its developers for more than two years."
I don't know if there are a lot of packages in Ubuntu that are old and get no updates, but are in use and there is no reason to avoid. Abundance of such packages would render this solution useless.
Solution #5:
Allow users to report a package as no longer in development
Written by
Menti the 14 Feb 10 at 21:40.
The page of an application could have a button/link with a text like "Report this software as being no longer in active development". Pressing this button would send this information to Canonical.
This information could be treated and presented in very different ways. A warning could be shown, telling the user that the package is apparently dead. Or the number of "dead reports" could be shown. Canonical could treat the information with some kind of automatic system (such as "show warning when we receive 10 dead reports") or manually, and require human confirmation to tag a package as dead.
This solution is based on tntricker's comment. Merit is all his.
The page of an application could have a button/link with a text like "Report this software as being no longer in active development". Pressing this button would send this information to Canonical.
This information could be treated and presented in very different ways. A warning could be shown, telling the user that the package is apparently dead. Or the number of "dead reports" could be shown. Canonical could treat the information with some kind of automatic system (such as "show warning when we receive 10 dead reports") or manually, and require human confirmation to tag a package as dead.
This solution is based on tntricker's comment. Merit is all his.
Solution #6:
Calculate estimated activity and show as simple pie-chart indicator icon
For each package, calculate how actively maintained it is as a function of several factors (e.g. weighted by popularity-contest results, recent activity on Launchpad, frequency of releases, etc.), and display as an icon.
Example formula:
raw_score = K_1 * ln(# of current installs from popcon) + K_2 * ln(# of actions performed on launchpad in last year) - K_3 * ln(# of days since last update)
scaled_score = raw_score / (max(raw_score[i]) over all packages)
The icon could be something like a pie chart or LED. The color should be interpolated between green (most active) and gray (least active). Place the icon next to the package name (like the Ubuntu logo for Canonical-maintained packages in Synaptic).
For each package, calculate how actively maintained it is as a function of several factors (e.g. weighted by popularity-contest results, recent activity on Launchpad, frequency of releases, etc.), and display as an icon.
Example formula:
raw_score = K_1 * ln(# of current installs from popcon) + K_2 * ln(# of actions performed on launchpad in last year) - K_3 * ln(# of days since last update)
scaled_score = raw_score / (max(raw_score[i]) over all packages)
The icon could be something like a pie chart or LED. The color should be interpolated between green (most active) and gray (least active). Place the icon next to the package name (like the Ubuntu logo for Canonical-maintained packages in Synaptic).
Ubuntu store/donate
Written by pererik87 the 15 Jan 10 at 16:16.
Related project: ubuntu.com .
New
If you want to donate to all the software on Ubuntu and the programs you have to make about 100 transactions each costing grand.
Currently running Ubuntu desktop is not profitable and with more money not only for ubuntu, but all open source, we can have more dedicated 24/7 developers assigned to Ubuntu, specific programs and applications.
Some of my suggestion is based on accessories for ubuntu store with symbolic value etc.
Is it anything else we can do?
Solution #1:
Diploma
Ubuntu and Kubuntu donate diploma to buy in ubuntu shop. User gets a nice diploma with amount and a greeting text + some stash back. 50$ 100$ 200$ 500$ 1000$
Shows some gratitude and at the same time encourages others to donate.
Ubuntu and Kubuntu donate diploma to buy in ubuntu shop. User gets a nice diploma with amount and a greeting text + some stash back. 50$ 100$ 200$ 500$ 1000$
Shows some gratitude and at the same time encourages others to donate.
Solution #2:
Open source packs
Open Source donate packs. Has a specified percent that goes to different opensource projects including Ubuntu, openoffice and all the others.
So you can donate to every Open Source in Ubuntu at once. If it gets many donations, it will make a extra motivation for people making (or that want to make) Open Source to ubuntu and it will also be easier to make money on Open source.
And if I want to donate to 20 different companies from my countrie. I don't have to pay the 10$ abroad fee 20 times. Lets say I want to donate 50$ without creating paypal(not popular in my country) account or fuzz that i don't want or need.
Open Source donate packs. Has a specified percent that goes to different opensource projects including Ubuntu, openoffice and all the others.
So you can donate to every Open Source in Ubuntu at once. If it gets many donations, it will make a extra motivation for people making (or that want to make) Open Source to ubuntu and it will also be easier to make money on Open source.
And if I want to donate to 20 different companies from my countrie. I don't have to pay the 10$ abroad fee 20 times. Lets say I want to donate 50$ without creating paypal(not popular in my country) account or fuzz that i don't want or need.
Solution #3:
Send a gift to companies making a donation
Could be a rose and a thank you card, or anything,
Could be a rose and a thank you card, or anything,
Solution #4:
Sell usb's with all distrubutions on it.
Sell usb's with all distributions on them. That including:
A GRUB or (BURG) menu in start where you choose which live session version you want to run.
Ubuntu
Kubuntu
Ubuntu Netbook Remix
Ubuntu alternative install
Edubuntu
+++
Sell usb's with all distributions on them. That including:
A GRUB or (BURG) menu in start where you choose which live session version you want to run.
Ubuntu
Kubuntu
Ubuntu Netbook Remix
Ubuntu alternative install
Edubuntu
+++
Solution #5:
Donate iqual amount spirit
promote "donate the equivalent of what you would pay for commercial software if you have money for it" spirit.
promote "donate the equivalent of what you would pay for commercial software if you have money for it" spirit.
Solution #6:
work with the Code Offsets project
Written by
Immanuel the 20 Jan 10 at 00:17.
http://codeoffsets.com/ do exactly what is requested here (just in a little geeky way of giving you official permission to make coding mistakes ;))
So, basically, if Ubuntu could work together with them to maybe get them some more publicity/a broader target group and extend to other open source projects, that would be fantastic (no need to reinvent the wheel, esp. as doing stuff twice is basically just wasted money)
http://codeoffsets.com/ do exactly what is requested here (just in a little geeky way of giving you official permission to make coding mistakes ;))
So, basically, if Ubuntu could work together with them to maybe get them some more publicity/a broader target group and extend to other open source projects, that would be fantastic (no need to reinvent the wheel, esp. as doing stuff twice is basically just wasted money)
Solution #7:
Promotion+Cash
Written by
Lachu the 20 Jan 10 at 17:13.
Create new promotional movies and sells each. Only companies, which uses Ubuntu could promote Ubuntu and themselves. Some great movies or other project are created using Linux(not especially Ubuntu) and they need better promotion, so my solution is about way to help commerce using Ubuntu, and Ubuntu.
Create new promotional movies and sells each. Only companies, which uses Ubuntu could promote Ubuntu and themselves. Some great movies or other project are created using Linux(not especially Ubuntu) and they need better promotion, so my solution is about way to help commerce using Ubuntu, and Ubuntu.
Solution #8:
Donate button to the Ubuntu Software Center
Add a "Donate" button to the Ubuntu Software Center.
Similar to Amorok -> megatunes and so on.
Add a "Donate" button to the Ubuntu Software Center.
Similar to Amorok -> megatunes and so on.
Solution #9:
Easier to donate.
Generally make it easier to donate, without pushing it up peoples faces. Discrete options for donations, with no prompting and annoyance. Add donate in the top or bottom of Ubuntu.com so people don't have to google donate Ubuntu to find the donation page.
Generally make it easier to donate, without pushing it up peoples faces. Discrete options for donations, with no prompting and annoyance. Add donate in the top or bottom of Ubuntu.com so people don't have to google donate Ubuntu to find the donation page.
Solution #10:
extra extras
sell better ubuntu stickers and some good skins.
sell better ubuntu stickers and some good skins.
Solution #11:
A list of who donates
Ubuntu should have a monthly list with donations, but the person/company donating must be able to choose to be anonymous.Like it is now it looks sort of secret. Linux mint (derivative) does this. Might in some cases make giving donations a profitable.
Ubuntu should have a monthly list with donations, but the person/company donating must be able to choose to be anonymous.Like it is now it looks sort of secret. Linux mint (derivative) does this. Might in some cases make giving donations a profitable.
Solution #12:
ADs during Package Install process
Written by
Otacon87 the 7 Feb 10 at 13:35.
When a new user installs a new application he will take the install process in background (or just stays there staring the progress bar).
My idea is really simple: add a new widget to the installation progress that shows ADs.
-> User can choose to show or not those ADs.
-> By default showing ADs is enabled.
-> Optionally this option can be shown during Ubuntu System install process.
-> If user clicks on an AD default browser will pop-up.
-> If user clicks on "Show shell output" the AD widget will be replaced by the shell output widget.
Maybe it can be a little ugly, but it will make canonical gain a lot of money (impressions or clicks) and will not annoy the user that much.
When a new user installs a new application he will take the install process in background (or just stays there staring the progress bar).
My idea is really simple: add a new widget to the installation progress that shows ADs.
-> User can choose to show or not those ADs.
-> By default showing ADs is enabled.
-> Optionally this option can be shown during Ubuntu System install process.
-> If user clicks on an AD default browser will pop-up.
-> If user clicks on "Show shell output" the AD widget will be replaced by the shell output widget.
Maybe it can be a little ugly, but it will make canonical gain a lot of money (impressions or clicks) and will not annoy the user that much.
Solution #13:
Sell Ubuntu
Written by
alms66 the 8 Feb 10 at 03:22.
Heresy I know, but hear me out on this one, it could work.
You box and package an Ubuntu disk. Each country would get it's own localized version of packaging. If necessary, in that country, you could also include a copy of legal codecs for dvd playback and whatnot - assuming Canonical would want to do that to not risk legal action. Hopefully, a lower than normal price can be negotiated for those though.
You would clearly state on the box that Ubuntu is free, can be downloaded for free and what you are paying for is the packaging (and additional goodies where needed) and distributing of the product. You would also clearly explain that the cost of this has been rounded up to the nearest $5 (for example in the US) or so, as a small "donation" to Ubuntu so that open source projects can be funded.
Heresy I know, but hear me out on this one, it could work.
You box and package an Ubuntu disk. Each country would get it's own localized version of packaging. If necessary, in that country, you could also include a copy of legal codecs for dvd playback and whatnot - assuming Canonical would want to do that to not risk legal action. Hopefully, a lower than normal price can be negotiated for those though.
You would clearly state on the box that Ubuntu is free, can be downloaded for free and what you are paying for is the packaging (and additional goodies where needed) and distributing of the product. You would also clearly explain that the cost of this has been rounded up to the nearest $5 (for example in the US) or so, as a small "donation" to Ubuntu so that open source projects can be funded.
Solution #14:
Donate ideas
Written by
Lachu the 8 Feb 10 at 11:09.
Allow users to request special feature for money.
Allow users to request special feature for money.
Solution #15:
Ubuntu salesmen
Written by
Arki the 8 Feb 10 at 11:11.
MS', Oracle's and other's salesmen go out every day to Govern offices, fundations and organizations to sell their solutions and support.
I think Ubuntu has to make an effort in this way. Several good contracts with some Governs Ubuntu could get a good source of financiation.
MS', Oracle's and other's salesmen go out every day to Govern offices, fundations and organizations to sell their solutions and support.
I think Ubuntu has to make an effort in this way. Several good contracts with some Governs Ubuntu could get a good source of financiation.
Solution #16:
Sell Ubuntu Stickers (good ones)
Written by
readmanr the 10 Feb 10 at 23:02.
Canonical Store should sell good Ubuntu stickers, the packs available at the moment are all right, but not good.
See...
http://shop.canonical.com/product_info.php?products_id=125
Ubuntu should sell the metallic bezel kind of stickers, kind of how the Intel inside stickers are. Some places have designed some that say "Designed for Ubuntu" with the ubuntu logo on a metallic sticker, they are good, but not everyone wants to lie about it, the computer was not designed for ubuntu, (but it may have been purchased with Ubuntu in mind).
See this "powered by ubuntu sticker"...
If canonical sold these at a cheap but profitable price they would sell like hot cakes!
All flavours should be available Ubuntu, Kubuntu etc...
Canonical Store should sell good Ubuntu stickers, the packs available at the moment are all right, but not good.
See... http://shop.canonical.com/product_info.php?products_id=125
Ubuntu should sell the metallic bezel kind of stickers, kind of how the Intel inside stickers are. Some places have designed some that say "Designed for Ubuntu" with the ubuntu logo on a metallic sticker, they are good, but not everyone wants to lie about it, the computer was not designed for ubuntu, (but it may have been purchased with Ubuntu in mind).
See this "powered by ubuntu sticker"...
<img style="align:center;" src="http://www.davestechsupport.com/blog/images/ubuntubadge2.png" alt="Powered by Ubuntu!"/>
If canonical sold these at a cheap but profitable price they would sell like hot cakes!
All flavours should be available Ubuntu, Kubuntu etc...
Solution #17:
add ads in forum
Written by
etusha the 14 Feb 10 at 12:24.
add ads in forum
add ads in forum
Solution #18:
Make ubuntu free just for torrent download
Written by
lautig the 15 Feb 10 at 02:59.
Make ubuntu free just for torrent download, for direct download pay some money.
Make ubuntu free just for torrent download, for direct download pay some money.
Solution #19:
Software catalog Duh!
Written by
ki4jgt the 16 Feb 10 at 09:04.
There has been talk around the internet, that Ubuntu is planning to incorperate a paid section into the software install program. I don't think this is such a bad idea. Especially since Ubuntu already hinges it's entire system on Open Source software.
I think Ubuntu should charge a small ($20) insertion fee for programers wanting to have their programs listed in this category.
There has been talk around the internet, that Ubuntu is planning to incorperate a paid section into the software install program. I don't think this is such a bad idea. Especially since Ubuntu already hinges it's entire system on Open Source software.
I think Ubuntu should charge a small ($20) insertion fee for programers wanting to have their programs listed in this category.
Solution #20:
Bottom up! - make Ubuntu an NGO and start campaigning
Written by
Blinky the 16 Feb 10 at 11:36.
Make Ubuntu a Non governmental organisation and start getting grants for it. Africa will need free systems/cheap systems to get connected so governments and aid organisations will be able to finance it - make it work for aid!!! Counties like Sweden will finance this. So with africa, half of south america, parts of Asia etc thats most of the world. China already runs linux via the government so it would great if the people also did - i.e. get in now and give it to 1/3 of the world's population.
place it in the hands of every third world child, team up with people that want to make cheap computers to the third world and in 20 years it will be the biggest thing!
The vast majority of the world lives in poverty so getting it to them cheap is how to get the majority of the world using it! Ubuntu is based on bottom up tactics - i.e. the users make it so why are we suggesting to distribute it top down (i.e. make it a business) - start with the people at the bottom. give it to an orphan, a war victim, a child that lives on under a dollar a day. Make a program/app that teams up with MIT open course (
http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/home/home/index.htm) like the iBooks app (or think iTunes U) on the iPad and you will educate these poor and repressed people. What do these people need once they get a computer and make sure ubuntu can do this well.
Start looking at integrated solutions with hardware and hook the 3rd world up to the net with ubuntu. Make a tablet device that is cheap and runs ubuntu. We might not even need that everyone has the net. integrate wifi that swarms (one swarm:
http://oneswarm.cs.washington.edu/index.html)... i.e. if i am near another ubuntu computer they connect and share data i.e. local torrent sharing. Great for africa!
... after all ubuntu's an african word!
Then to get the first world going start a website that is all about campaigning to get Ubuntu in every office and every government building. Think the My Barack Obama website and you will be well on the way. Love him or loath him he mobilised allot of people. Have a social networking site that allows people to send emails to friends, letters to politicians, ring people to campaign. Send sms etc, blog about the Ubuntu on all kinds of stuff... like the third world (see above) etc. Get organisations in each country and take membership fees. Membership fees will make a free system and support africa.
We don't need ads we need to start working the same way that ubuntu was created - from the bottom up. The goal of Ubuntu should be to connect the world. Start from the bottom - its the only way!
Make Ubuntu a Non governmental organisation and start getting grants for it. Africa will need free systems/cheap systems to get connected so governments and aid organisations will be able to finance it - make it work for aid!!! Counties like Sweden will finance this. So with africa, half of south america, parts of Asia etc thats most of the world. China already runs linux via the government so it would great if the people also did - i.e. get in now and give it to 1/3 of the world's population.
place it in the hands of every third world child, team up with people that want to make cheap computers to the third world and in 20 years it will be the biggest thing!
The vast majority of the world lives in poverty so getting it to them cheap is how to get the majority of the world using it! Ubuntu is based on bottom up tactics - i.e. the users make it so why are we suggesting to distribute it top down (i.e. make it a business) - start with the people at the bottom. give it to an orphan, a war victim, a child that lives on under a dollar a day. Make a program/app that teams up with MIT open course (http://ocw.mit.edu/OcwWeb/web/home/home/index.htm) like the iBooks app (or think iTunes U) on the iPad and you will educate these poor and repressed people. What do these people need once they get a computer and make sure ubuntu can do this well.
Start looking at integrated solutions with hardware and hook the 3rd world up to the net with ubuntu. Make a tablet device that is cheap and runs ubuntu. We might not even need that everyone has the net. integrate wifi that swarms (one swarm: http://oneswarm.cs.washington.edu/index.html)... i.e. if i am near another ubuntu computer they connect and share data i.e. local torrent sharing. Great for africa!
... after all ubuntu's an african word!
Then to get the first world going start a website that is all about campaigning to get Ubuntu in every office and every government building. Think the My Barack Obama website and you will be well on the way. Love him or loath him he mobilised allot of people. Have a social networking site that allows people to send emails to friends, letters to politicians, ring people to campaign. Send sms etc, blog about the Ubuntu on all kinds of stuff... like the third world (see above) etc. Get organisations in each country and take membership fees. Membership fees will make a free system and support africa.
We don't need ads we need to start working the same way that ubuntu was created - from the bottom up. The goal of Ubuntu should be to connect the world. Start from the bottom - its the only way!
Solution #21:
Donations and Partnerships
Written by
Chamillo the 17 Feb 10 at 01:19.
I think Ubuntu needs to focus on two areas:
Donations: I know that Ubuntu already takes donations, but it can do a better job of creating a greater awareness and urgency among users to make donations and how every dollar can make a significant difference in the future of Linux and open source.
Partnerships: Ubuntu should strongly pursue partnerships with computer manufacturers that would create a market of Ubuntu-optimized computers. Those manufacturers could benefit from creating a pool of loyal Linux users that would buy their computers and they in turn could share some of the revenue created by this new and emerging market.
I think Ubuntu needs to focus on two areas:
Donations: I know that Ubuntu already takes donations, but it can do a better job of creating a greater awareness and urgency among users to make donations and how every dollar can make a significant difference in the future of Linux and open source.
Partnerships: Ubuntu should strongly pursue partnerships with computer manufacturers that would create a market of Ubuntu-optimized computers. Those manufacturers could benefit from creating a pool of loyal Linux users that would buy their computers and they in turn could share some of the revenue created by this new and emerging market.
Solution #22:
Sell it to the Government
(forgive the US perspective here)
There's more than a few computers in the GOV inventory, at $150 to license Vista and Office for each, this really adds up to some significant money.
The USG spends lots of cash plugging holes and security issues for all these MS products. It also has to buy anti-virus for each.
Many large organizations also run SharePoint sites and have a building full of servers.
This adds up to a significant expense of taxpayer dollars.
It would be more effective to spend these dollars to hire Cannonical to build a GOV Spec Ubuntu. It would be significantly more secure than Windows, and even better, be under the control of the GOV which wouldn't be held hostage by MS.
This would also spur the market to take Open Source much more seriously. We'd effectively be starting another space-race. The rest of the market would explode with Open Source offerings, quality would increase, and the US (or what ever country pulls it off) would become a world leader in the field.
(forgive the US perspective here)
There's more than a few computers in the GOV inventory, at $150 to license Vista and Office for each, this really adds up to some significant money.
The USG spends lots of cash plugging holes and security issues for all these MS products. It also has to buy anti-virus for each.
Many large organizations also run SharePoint sites and have a building full of servers.
This adds up to a significant expense of taxpayer dollars.
It would be more effective to spend these dollars to hire Cannonical to build a GOV Spec Ubuntu. It would be significantly more secure than Windows, and even better, be under the control of the GOV which wouldn't be held hostage by MS.
This would also spur the market to take Open Source much more seriously. We'd effectively be starting another space-race. The rest of the market would explode with Open Source offerings, quality would increase, and the US (or what ever country pulls it off) would become a world leader in the field.
Solution #23:
Sell Manuals
Written by
lecorian the 17 Feb 10 at 23:54.
Canonical could sell official documentation (computer manuals) for profit. This idea could be used in conjunction with idea number 2 (i.e. selling boxed versions of Ubuntu) and/or could be done separately. The Free Software Foundation and FLOSS Manuals currently have print versions of their manuals for purchase online. While Ubuntu has great online documentation, it is nice to have an official manual with all of the most frequent issues so that users can simply search in an index as opposed to searching through countless forums. Also, it would provided a way for users to troubleshoot problems if they cannot connect to the internet. It also provides a way for people to learn a lot about their system and have the ability to read from a page and not a screen.
If manuals were to be distributed in conjunction with Ubuntu boxed sets, it would make users feel much more secure about their purchase and the installation process.
Canonical could sell official documentation (computer manuals) for profit. This idea could be used in conjunction with idea number 2 (i.e. selling boxed versions of Ubuntu) and/or could be done separately. The Free Software Foundation and FLOSS Manuals currently have print versions of their manuals for purchase online. While Ubuntu has great online documentation, it is nice to have an official manual with all of the most frequent issues so that users can simply search in an index as opposed to searching through countless forums. Also, it would provided a way for users to troubleshoot problems if they cannot connect to the internet. It also provides a way for people to learn a lot about their system and have the ability to read from a page and not a screen.
If manuals were to be distributed in conjunction with Ubuntu boxed sets, it would make users feel much more secure about their purchase and the installation process.
Solution #24:
Sell DVD packs of software repos
Make a section on the homepage saying:
_____________________________________
On the go?
Slow Internet? No Internet?
Low bandwidth?
Buy a 5-set DVD collection of all of the great programs in the universal Ubuntu software collection! This pack of free software lets you install software by just popping in the DVD, going to the package manager, and selecting the program you want without worrying about losing your Wi-Fi range or having a slow connection!
_____________________________________
Include two options for the DVD on the product page; one that includes ubuntu-restricted-extras and other naughty packages, and one that doesn't.
Make a section on the homepage saying:
_____________________________________
On the go?
Slow Internet? No Internet?
Low bandwidth?
Buy a 5-set DVD collection of all of the great programs in the universal Ubuntu software collection! This pack of free software lets you install software by just popping in the DVD, going to the package manager, and selecting the program you want without worrying about losing your Wi-Fi range or having a slow connection!
_____________________________________
Include two options for the DVD on the product page; one that includes ubuntu-restricted-extras and other naughty packages, and one that doesn't.
Solution #25:
Donations through Brainstorm
Written by
cos the 19 Feb 10 at 10:39.
Allow users to pledge micropayments towards specific ideas on Brainstorm that they feel should be implemented.
For example, if I feel very strongly about idea A, I should be able to promise Canonical I'll pay them a token donation of something like £2 (fixed for all, perhaps) if they implement it. This will give Canonical an incentive to listen to what people tell them, and it will also be an additional revenue stream for the company.
Allow users to pledge micropayments towards specific ideas on Brainstorm that they feel should be implemented.
For example, if I feel very strongly about idea A, I should be able to promise Canonical I'll pay them a token donation of something like £2 (fixed for all, perhaps) if they implement it. This will give Canonical an incentive to listen to what people tell them, and it will also be an additional revenue stream for the company.
Solution #27:
Push Dell to let me pick Ubuntu for all their hardware line
Right now I can only get Ubuntu on selected models that are more often than not marginally more expensive than their Windows counterparts, due to Microsoft discounts I've been told on Dell's chat.
Suggest Dell to let me pay a premium to get the OS I want and let me pick community support to bring their cost down.
Right now I can only get Ubuntu on selected models that are more often than not marginally more expensive than their Windows counterparts, due to Microsoft discounts I've been told on Dell's chat.
Suggest Dell to let me pay a premium to get the OS I want and let me pick community support to bring their cost down.
Solution #28:
Improve partner program and tools
Ubuntu already has a partner program [1]. This could be a great way to increase Ubuntu's reach, especially in enterprise environments where some support and consultancy revenue could be generated. The partner program could be improved to create a real partner community, where partner companies can interact with each other, help each other win business, exchange ideas, etc. At the moment, the bulk of partners are large companies that do work with a lot of people beside Ubuntu. The partner program could also be used to create a network of smaller companies that work with Ubuntu in their specific location and specialisation.
For more details on the subject, Alan Bell has an interesting article on his blog[2].
[1]
http://www.ubuntu.com/partners
[2]
http://www.theopensourcerer.com/2010/02/20/dear-matt-asay/
Ubuntu already has a partner program [1]. This could be a great way to increase Ubuntu's reach, especially in enterprise environments where some support and consultancy revenue could be generated. The partner program could be improved to create a real partner community, where partner companies can interact with each other, help each other win business, exchange ideas, etc. At the moment, the bulk of partners are large companies that do work with a lot of people beside Ubuntu. The partner program could also be used to create a network of smaller companies that work with Ubuntu in their specific location and specialisation.
For more details on the subject, Alan Bell has an interesting article on his blog[2].
[1] http://www.ubuntu.com/partners
[2] http://www.theopensourcerer.com/2010/02/20/dear-matt-asay/
Solution #29:
Allow to subscribe Canonical adverts/magazine.
Written by
Lachu the 21 Feb 10 at 18:04.
Allow people to subscribe Canonical's magazine. Each subscriber can fill survey about software he's interested in. Each can also unsubscribe this magaznie. Each subscribers will download new surveys from e-mail.
Canonical can earn money on adverts, but it's not obligatory.
Allow people to subscribe Canonical's magazine. Each subscriber can fill survey about software he's interested in. Each can also unsubscribe this magaznie. Each subscribers will download new surveys from e-mail.
Canonical can earn money on adverts, but it's not obligatory.
Solution #30:
Sell promotional and training materials.
Written by
Lachu the 21 Feb 10 at 18:10.
Canonical can sell high-ended promotional/training materials, like commercial(especially Canonical's) software with training license, books, etc.
You can also sells certificate to people.
Canonical can sell high-ended promotional/training materials, like commercial(especially Canonical's) software with training license, books, etc.
You can also sells certificate to people.
Solution #31:
A Magazine With Ads
Magazine contains info about computers and linux and Ubuntu news, Published with ads in it.
Magazine contains info about computers and linux and Ubuntu news, Published with ads in it.
Solution #32:
Add optional ads to Ubuntu One
Written by
Mirek2 the 14 Mar 10 at 13:07.
Don't worry: Ubuntu One would still be ad-free for all users by default.
Only there would be a customization option to show ads, as a way to support the Ubuntu project without having to spend any money and without having to enter credit card information.
Additionally, if possible, the ads could have certain features to make them more appealing to click, like user ratings and reviews. This would be a big win for both the user and the advertised company (if it sells good products): the user would know that the advertised product is a good buy and not a hoax and therefore would be much more likely to buy it than otherwise, which in turn would benefit the advertised company. The only loser in this situation would be a company that is a hoax, sells low quality products, or uses cruel methods of production (child labor, factory farms, ...). But Ubuntu shouldn't, by moral principles, want to point its customers in their direction anyway, right?
Don't worry: Ubuntu One would still be ad-free for all users by default.
Only there would be a customization option to show ads, as a way to support the Ubuntu project without having to spend any money and without having to enter credit card information.
Additionally, if possible, the ads could have certain features to make them more appealing to click, like user ratings and reviews. This would be a big win for both the user and the advertised company (if it sells good products): the user would know that the advertised product is a good buy and not a hoax and therefore would be much more likely to buy it than otherwise, which in turn would benefit the advertised company. The only loser in this situation would be a company that is a hoax, sells low quality products, or uses cruel methods of production (child labor, factory farms, ...). But Ubuntu shouldn't, by moral principles, want to point its customers in their direction anyway, right?
Solution #33:
Make ubuntu applications that allow me to make money for ubuntu (value added)
Written by
Blinky the 25 Apr 10 at 11:26.
Most ideas for making money from ubuntu revolve around making money from the actual operating system, even with some form of advertising. In my opinion this is not what open source is about, in my opinion open source is about empowering people. Why not empower people to support and develop ubuntu.
What ubuntu should do is to help people make money for ubuntu from value added services. I have an example below:
Pretend that I am an artist and make stock pictures and films in my spare time. If Ubuntu makes a web application for the server edition where people can have a web site with films and videos that are downloadable once people donate a small fee to ubuntu - then ubuntu can make money from my hobbies even though I can't program.
An other idea can be to make an application that turns my internet connection into a wireless hotspot where people can donate a small fee and then use my internet connection.
There are lots of things from hosting websites on my ubuntu server edition to selling services such as design, website templates etc. This idea has the benefit of allowing people that have little or no knowledge of programming to still help make money and support/advance ubuntu.
Make the tools that empower people to help! What tools do we need???
Most ideas for making money from ubuntu revolve around making money from the actual operating system, even with some form of advertising. In my opinion this is not what open source is about, in my opinion open source is about empowering people. Why not empower people to support and develop ubuntu.
What ubuntu should do is to help people make money for ubuntu from value added services. I have an example below:
Pretend that I am an artist and make stock pictures and films in my spare time. If Ubuntu makes a web application for the server edition where people can have a web site with films and videos that are downloadable once people donate a small fee to ubuntu - then ubuntu can make money from my hobbies even though I can't program.
An other idea can be to make an application that turns my internet connection into a wireless hotspot where people can donate a small fee and then use my internet connection.
There are lots of things from hosting websites on my ubuntu server edition to selling services such as design, website templates etc. This idea has the benefit of allowing people that have little or no knowledge of programming to still help make money and support/advance ubuntu.
Make the tools that empower people to help! What tools do we need???
Solution #34:
Software center
I know Ubuntu is all about gnu gpl or lgpl, but not everyone only believes in gnu. There should be the "Gnu" section we have now
and a "non-free" section with skype and chrome and all the other "evil" free options and as well
a "commerical/patented" section where you can buy products from anywhere, not only Canonical. Like the games from here
http://www.linuxlinks.com/article/20080530054213402/CommercialGames.html and so on.
Bigger companies will make more money on Linux and make programs/games for Linux as well as MAC and Winblows.
I know Ubuntu is all about gnu gpl or lgpl, but not everyone only believes in gnu. There should be the "Gnu" section we have now
and a "non-free" section with skype and chrome and all the other "evil" free options and as well
a "commerical/patented" section where you can buy products from anywhere, not only Canonical. Like the games from here http://www.linuxlinks.com/article/20080530054213402/CommercialGames.html and so on.
Bigger companies will make more money on Linux and make programs/games for Linux as well as MAC and Winblows.
Solution #35:
Lighting Pen
Written by
Lachu the 30 Jun 10 at 09:45.
Sell lighting pen working by infrared camera, bluetooth and infrared emitter(lighting pen).
This devices should been designed especially for Canonical.
Sell lighting pen working by infrared camera, bluetooth and infrared emitter(lighting pen).
This devices should been designed especially for Canonical.
Solution #36:
Kinda like Superman 3...but legal
Perhaps create a highly specialized distribution specifically for point of sale environments (pubs, restaurants, convenience stores, etc.) that features a suite of applications to make it enticing to owners (open office, employee scheduling software, accounting programs, etc. etc.) and offer it for free. Of course, a default screen saver could be used to promote Ubuntu as well (gawd knows how many hours I've spent staring at a point of sale terminal from across the bar ;)). Where the money would be made is through credit/debit card transactions. The Ubuntu brand, I think, has built a reputation for integrity and enough clout within the business community where they could approach banks, merchant account companies, etc. and offer to partner with them. Instead of paying a flat monthly fee, business owners who use the distro could pay per transaction, a fraction of which would go back to help fund Ubuntu and other projects. By partnering with different banks/companies in different countries, I imagine that a little bit here and there would quickly add up. I'm not a business person, and I have no idea if this is feasible, but I like it a lot more than charging micro transactions to users from within applications :)
Perhaps create a highly specialized distribution specifically for point of sale environments (pubs, restaurants, convenience stores, etc.) that features a suite of applications to make it enticing to owners (open office, employee scheduling software, accounting programs, etc. etc.) and offer it for free. Of course, a default screen saver could be used to promote Ubuntu as well (gawd knows how many hours I've spent staring at a point of sale terminal from across the bar ;)). Where the money would be made is through credit/debit card transactions. The Ubuntu brand, I think, has built a reputation for integrity and enough clout within the business community where they could approach banks, merchant account companies, etc. and offer to partner with them. Instead of paying a flat monthly fee, business owners who use the distro could pay per transaction, a fraction of which would go back to help fund Ubuntu and other projects. By partnering with different banks/companies in different countries, I imagine that a little bit here and there would quickly add up. I'm not a business person, and I have no idea if this is feasible, but I like it a lot more than charging micro transactions to users from within applications :)
Solution #37:
Start a Funding Platform
Much like this very website, start a new site where I can donate to the software projects and/or features I would like to see implemented or improved. Incentives for donating are a possibility as well (like recognition, stickers, etc).
See: Kickstarter (kickstarter.com)
Much like this very website, start a new site where I can donate to the software projects and/or features I would like to see implemented or improved. Incentives for donating are a possibility as well (like recognition, stickers, etc).
See: Kickstarter (kickstarter.com)
Solution #38:
Donate back to Debian
Written by
Lyfang the 12 Aug 11 at 10:37.
"Ubuntu gets most of its software from Debian (89%)
Source: http://lwn.net/Articles/416667/
Help by sending Ubuntu bugfixes back to Debian upstream and contribute (back to) Debian."
Source: http://brainstorm.ubuntu.com/idea/21761/
Solution #39:
Sell not Ubuntu, But Ubuntu discs
No, Ubuntu should NEVER be sold, Ubuntu CDs/Usbs/Dvds should be. How ever much that cd/usb/dvd costs would be what you pay and nothing more because Ubuntu is free. Obviously if you are paying more for a disc with a free product on it than you would if you weren't, It isn't really free now is it? You can sell Ubuntu like this ALL over the place, And it would greatly increase it's popularity, While being EXTREMELY cheap. They really need to do this, It would grant so much more money and popularity to Ubuntu. It might cost more than a blank cd though I suppose, But this would just be from some sort of fee or something like that, But it would be pretty much the same thing. Probably within five dollars or less.
No, Ubuntu should NEVER be sold, Ubuntu CDs/Usbs/Dvds should be. How ever much that cd/usb/dvd costs would be what you pay and nothing more because Ubuntu is free. Obviously if you are paying more for a disc with a free product on it than you would if you weren't, It isn't really free now is it? You can sell Ubuntu like this ALL over the place, And it would greatly increase it's popularity, While being EXTREMELY cheap. They really need to do this, It would grant so much more money and popularity to Ubuntu. It might cost more than a blank cd though I suppose, But this would just be from some sort of fee or something like that, But it would be pretty much the same thing. Probably within five dollars or less.
Solution #40:
Link free programs on app.ubuntu.com to non-profit organizations
As of title, this should get people involved to non-profit organizations the developer (or a team of developers) cares about. Developers will consider their time spent on programming as volunteering for good causes while non-profit organizations receive attentions by users
As of title, this should get people involved to non-profit organizations the developer (or a team of developers) cares about. Developers will consider their time spent on programming as volunteering for good causes while non-profit organizations receive attentions by users
145
votes
175
53
30
Solution #1:
Another developer could help him
We need a platform where an (quite) expert developer could offer himself to help another developer with his first steps.
The platform could help the right person to find each other, by means of various criteria: language, where they live (think about time zone), what kind of program they want to develop (GUI/CLI, GTK/QT, ...)
We need a platform where an (quite) expert developer could offer himself to help another developer with his first steps.
The platform could help the right person to find each other, by means of various criteria: language, where they live (think about time zone), what kind of program they want to develop (GUI/CLI, GTK/QT, ...)
518
votes
524
7
6
Solution #2:
Create a USDN (Ubuntu Software Developer Network)
Create a website like MSDN for Ubuntu (USDN) and bring together API documentation, code snippets, tutorials, etc. This could be helpful for both developers new to Ubuntu (or Linux in general) and seasoned Ubuntu developers. It could also incorporate Solution #1.
Create a website like MSDN for Ubuntu (USDN) and bring together API documentation, code snippets, tutorials, etc. This could be helpful for both developers new to Ubuntu (or Linux in general) and seasoned Ubuntu developers. It could also incorporate Solution #1.
88
votes
117
15
29
Solution #3:
Create a social networking infrastructure
While I'm not opposed to either of the above ideas, I feel that much of open-source development is a social activity.
I need a place where I'm comfortable:
1) Asking questions
2) Getting appropriate answers
3) Being asked to assist
4) Growing
5) Contributing
As it stands, there's a huge disconnect when it comes to #2 and #3. Much of this disconnect comes from not understanding unique personal limitations and skills. IMHO, social networks are capable of overcoming this disconnect much faster than tools.
While I'm not opposed to either of the above ideas, I feel that much of open-source development is a social activity.
I need a place where I'm comfortable:
1) Asking questions
2) Getting appropriate answers
3) Being asked to assist
4) Growing
5) Contributing
As it stands, there's a huge disconnect when it comes to #2 and #3. Much of this disconnect comes from not understanding unique personal limitations and skills. IMHO, social networks are capable of overcoming this disconnect much faster than tools.
14
votes
38
9
24
Solution #4:
Use IRC Channel #ubuntu-devel
There are many people willing to help out beginners on #ubuntu-devel @ irc.ubuntu.com. Just install an IRC client like
XChat , connect to
irc.ubuntu.com and type /join #ubuntu-devel.
There are many people willing to help out beginners on #ubuntu-devel @ irc.ubuntu.com. Just install an IRC client like <a href="apt:xchat">XChat</a>, connect to <a href="irc.ubuntu.com">irc.ubuntu.com</a> and type /join #ubuntu-devel.
Safe ActiveX Alternative
Written by snifflz20 the 20 Mar 10 at 00:54.
Related project: Firefox .
Won't implement
There needs to be a safe active x alternative built in to firefox if possible because some users of Ubuntu have job related websites that they go to and some of the features of the websites require ActiveX and I absolutely hate windows so that feature of the website will just have to be an empty link for now!
-255
votes
5
15
260
Solution #2:
IE6 with ActiveX alternative for Wine
Give Wine an IE6 alternative for browsing ActiveX enabled corporate intranet "web" applications.
Although supporting ActiveX is ugly and nasty and evil, it would allow places which use software such as HP Quality Center to switch to Linux.
Give Wine an IE6 alternative for browsing ActiveX enabled corporate intranet "web" applications.
Although supporting ActiveX is ugly and nasty and evil, it would allow places which use software such as HP Quality Center to switch to Linux.
477
votes
493
7
16
Solution #3:
Let ActiveX die
Written by
vektor the 20 Mar 10 at 07:38.
Pull the plug. It has been seriously flawed from the beginning, no real need to keep it alive anymore.
Pull the plug. It has been seriously flawed from the beginning, no real need to keep it alive anymore.
-177
votes
13
13
190
Solution #4:
Non Windows
I'm talking about a possibility of creating a new type of non-viral, non windows activex that has no problems
I'm talking about a possibility of creating a new type of non-viral, non windows activex that has no problems
-139
votes
26
16
165
Solution #5:
Not ActiveX
We need to come up with something else that is not activex at all that will make web pages work that require activex.
We need to come up with something else that is not activex at all that will make web pages work that require activex.
-106
votes
17
14
123
Solution #6:
ActiveX sandbox.
Use a sandboxed Wine to run the ActiveX plugin using the existing code in mozilla. The trick is to get a plugin for the Windows version of Firefox to run in Wine while actually running the Linux version of Firefox.
Use a sandboxed Wine to run the ActiveX plugin using the existing code in mozilla. The trick is to get a plugin for the Windows version of Firefox to run in Wine while actually running the Linux version of Firefox.
-107
votes
13
11
120
Solution #7:
Wine-gecko ActiveX support.
If Wine-gecko had ActiveX support it sould be easy to use that in order to make a Wine-dependent browser that can show ActiveX. As most ActiveX controls require the Windows API Wine would be required anyway.
If Wine-gecko had ActiveX support it sould be easy to use that in order to make a Wine-dependent browser that can show ActiveX. As most ActiveX controls require the Windows API Wine would be required anyway.
-36
votes
18
7
54
Solution #8:
Make your own Firefox Extension (or get someone else to do it)
Written by
Ronius the 1 Apr 10 at 21:49.
I don't feel this really comes as an issue relevant to Ubuntu development as much as to Firefox extension development. However, I can see perfect sense in getting some sort of functionality for business use, even if it is an archaic web "technology".
I don't feel this really comes as an issue relevant to Ubuntu development as much as to Firefox extension development. However, I can see perfect sense in getting some sort of functionality for business use, even if it is an archaic web "technology".
-48
votes
10
8
58
Solution #9:
Google "native client"
Written by
jwal the 2 Apr 10 at 14:05.
Google's "native client" project might be a viable alternative, depending on your requirements. It is a sandbox for running native x86 code as long as it can verify the safety of the code. There is a slightly modified toolchain for compiling safe binaries.
See
http://code.google.com/p/nativeclient/ for more information.
Google's "native client" project might be a viable alternative, depending on your requirements. It is a sandbox for running native x86 code as long as it can verify the safety of the code. There is a slightly modified toolchain for compiling safe binaries.
See http://code.google.com/p/nativeclient/ for more information.
No progress indication on boot
Written by 10110111 the 29 Jan 10 at 14:04.
Global category: Usability.
New
Current splash is just an image which doesn't show if the system is starting or it is hung or something else.
GRUB doesn't show if it is loading the kernel or it is hung.
All these boot stages are still too long (at least on SSDs) to neglect progress indication.
Solution #1:
Add animation and if possible, progress indication to splash & GRUB
Written by
10110111 the 29 Jan 10 at 14:04.
1. Add progress indication to GRUB, so the user sees it's not hung. A good example is the way it's done by isolinux, as on the LiveCD (progress is indicated by "....." there).
2. Make bootsplash animated and, if possible, show progress bar.
1. Add progress indication to GRUB, so the user sees it's not hung. A good example is the way it's done by isolinux, as on the LiveCD (progress is indicated by "....." there).
2. Make bootsplash animated and, if possible, show progress bar.
Solution #2:
Make the splash image pulse by default, like the LiveCD
Written by
isantop the 12 Feb 10 at 15:42.
To see what I'm talking about, boot your LiveCD. The logo pulses while it boots. Simple reassurance that the boot process hasn't hung, and it keeps ubuntu simple for it's target user base.
To see what I'm talking about, boot your LiveCD. The logo pulses while it boots. Simple reassurance that the boot process hasn't hung, and it keeps ubuntu simple for it's target user base.
Solution #3:
Let the user define the style the progress is indicated
Written by
wenex the 17 Feb 10 at 19:16.
change and define it like window- (boarders. colours, styles)
on the desktop right click menu or compiz
change and define it like window- (boarders. colours, styles)
on the desktop right click menu or compiz
Avoid duplication of the "Generating Grub.cfg" script during upgrade.
Written by joeblurton the 25 Feb 10 at 11:20.
Related project: Update manager .
New
Whenever I perform an upgrade, either to a new release or to a new pre-release, the distribution upgrade terminal window always shows that the Grub.cfg script has been run on at least 3 separate occasions. Is this entirely necessary?
Surely it would be possible to auto-generate this script only at the end of the upgrade process, thereby saving time for the end user?
There may be a very good reason not to do this, but it always does make me wonder.