"I don't see the report mention the lack of programs for Linux. I use graphics oriented software and there's no Photoshop, FlashMX, Director, Lightwave, etc. in Linux format. Until the support from software manufacturers comes in, the author is beating a dead penguin. "
You are right, and it is a tough decision to make. But, with Linux you know the operating system is stable and is converging on a solution, Windows cannot converge on stability because it would lose the profits which come from mandated upgrades. So, your complaint is valid, but based on applications, not the worthiness of the OS.
Tortoise and Hare longterm, those applications will all be recompiled for Linux. Software is maturing, you don't see breakneck updates. So, applications will migrate to catch other markets - i.e. Linux.
Most of the upgrades slated for Longhorn have absolutely zero use for the end business customer.
This is typical of all migrations from one technology to another, IMO. With the advent of the automobile there was the difficulty and cost associated with lack of gas stations, repair shops, tire stores, etc. That took quite and investment over time but look at the difference once it was done. The same will be true if another fuel or transportation technology comes along.
In this MS vs. Linux situation, once the transformation is started the costs go down for all computer based operations due to lack of operating system cost, more and cheaper applications due to competition, and as far as the home-brewed apps are concerned, computer languages are so advanced that writing new apps is not nearly as difficult as it was a short time ago.
There is also a sort of poetic justice in seeing MS get its comeuppance after years of stealing apps from struggling software developers in an effort to corner the market on not only the operating system but on applications too, and therefore on nearly all of the economy. Such grand schemes must eventually go awry. I remember the Hunt brothers attempt to corner the silver market. They went momentarily from the richest family in the world to barely rich and they still haven't completely recovered. Are you listening, Mr. Gates?