Posted 9:23 AM

Gartner spreads FUD again

According to The Register, ("Delay Linux apps, look at Windows, Unix, says Gartner") the Gartner Group is urging enterprises to avoid new Linux projects because of uncertainty about SCO's claims that their Unix intellectual property has been illegally included in the open-source OS. But really, what's the worst that can happen?

If SCO is completely vindicated, then those running Linux (kernel version 2.4 or later) will have to pay a license fee which Gartner estimates at US$500 - 700 per serve. That's still less than licensing the equivalent OS horsepower of Windows, Solaris, HPuX or other Unix systems (and you'd better stir clear of AIX, I'd imagine, based on SCO's law suit against IBM).

Analyst groups are supposed to cut through the Fear, Uncertainty and Doubt, not help spread it. Gartner is doing a huge disservice to the clients who spend large amounts of money with them looking for realistic forecasts.