Converting friends to use Free formats, Free software, GNU/Linux, and of course, Ubuntu is something that you should know how to do properly. It is of course a very effective way of getting Ubuntu out to more people but you must be careful of your actions not only to increase your rate of success, but to prevent any problems that could damage your, or Ubuntu's, image.

Convincing Them

What Not to Do

• Do not attempt converting other people if you haven't gotten it working for yourself.
• At this point in time, Ubuntu is simply not ready for technophobic people-- so don't even try it.
• Being too preachy is bad. Use your discretion to keep your "preaching" at an appropriate level.
• Some people don't understand how free software is better. Deal with it. Debate calmly and do not take offense.
• Getting gamers to leave Windows won't happen. Linux games can't compete yet.
• Don't lie or omit telling the truth about any limitations which might turn up.
• Accept rejections. Some people aren't ready for this, so don't push it.

What to Do

• Know the person you want to convert
• Appeal to their interests, not yours
  • Security
  • Speed
• Show off the eye candy
• Know what your convertee will need on their machine

Converting Them

One you have they okay...

What Not to Do

• Give them an install disk and say 'Have fun!'
• Leave them stranded after the installation with no one to go to in the event of a problem

What to Do

• Set everything up for them
• Explain to them everything you are doing

Step-by-Step Procedure