While reading over the brainstorm site people suggest adding a lot of different things to the base installation of Ubuntu, and some of them have good arguments (but most don't in my opinion).

I propose that after the installation process the user would be asked to choose from a couple of installation options for programs such as;
1. Suggested (default selected)
2. Manual
3. Advanced

The Suggested option would install a "default" Ubuntu programs list.

The Manual option would give the user a list of tasks that they expect to do (e.g. photo editing, note taking, pc based emailing (not webmail like hotmail/yahoo) word processing, simple games, music listening, movie watching etc...). Then, the computer could install the programs pertaining to the selections (e.g. evolution for pc based email, or openoffice for word processing) from the install disc or internet connection.

The Advanced option would probably not install any of these programs, maybe just simple things like nautilus and a terminal. The idea here is an experienced user already knows exactly what programs they want to use for specific tasks and this would save them the trouble of removing the default word processor, notes application, torrent application, mail application etc.

Feel free to comment and fine tune these ideas, they are rough. But I like the idea of letting the user say don't waste my time installing programs I will not use or replace later anyhow.