Date: Wed, 7 Feb 2001 15:31:29 +0000
From: rfc@opendoorsoftware.com <rfc@opendoorsoftware.com>
To: lwn@lwn.net
Subject: Introducing ODS Linux

For immediate release

Wednesday, February 07, 2001

INTRODUCING ODSLINUX.COM
Providing efficient and convienient Linux installation for users with any
requirement level, through our powerful web g.u.i.

Introducing ODS Linux.com
=========================

ABOUT THE COMPANY
-----------------

ODS Linux is a company that wishes to service the Linux operating
system. It plans to begin with the preconfiguration of Debian Linux (others
will be added soon). ODS intends to not only do this in an efficient and
visually pleasing fashion, but also with a conscience. The company plans to
contribute a portion of every sale to 2 separate funds. The first will go
to the development of open source software. The second will go to various
charitable organizations. All decisions regarding how and to who these
funds will be allocated, will be made through a diplomatic voting process,
decided by the people who have contributed by purchasing the ODS Linux
service.

ABOUT THE SERVICE
-----------------

ODS Linux takes some of the fear and repetition out of installing
Linux. The service of preconfiguration makes the Linux installation process
easier.  It saves time and informs as you are guided through the necessary
steps to successfully configure Linux.

Through the use of our unique and familiar web GUI (modeled after a Gnome
environment), users can preconfigure a Debian Linux distribution for their
pre-existing systems.  Users specify what hardware they have, and what
software they want. These selections a stored permanently in our database
and can be manipulated and changed at the clients discretion (24-7). The
client matches the hardware and software configuration they wish to
purchase. A package consisting of a custom boot floppy, manuals, and
software CDs is then shipped.
When the package is received, the user first powers up the PC, simply
inserts the custom floppy and source CD, and installation begins.

The only input required by the end user during installation is partition
information, passwords and network settings.

ABOUT THE SITE
--------------

A user interface, built primarily with flash, features may tools to aid the
preconfiguration of Debian Linux.

Why did we use flash? Simply because the technology opened up possibilities
and behaviors that could not be achieved or would require excessive amounts
of coding with standard html and dhtml pages. This also made it possible to
mimic a graphic user interface.

The step by step process is catered to both newbie and power users.

Newbies will appreciate the hand holding throughout the typically
intimidating process of setting up Linux for their needs.  Decisions are
easily made from the website's extensive resources, that include searchable
man files, how-to's and external links.  Our mascot (Leaphy) even doubles
as an interactive Q&A search engine.

Power users have commented that they find the site efficient, and the
"hand-holding" not too intrusive during their sessions.

WHERE TO VIEW THE SITE
----------------------

To view more about the company and to take the flash WebGUI for a spin,
please visit......

www.odslinux.com
contact rfc@opendoorsoftware.com



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