We need easier installation.
I think the improvements in the installation of 2.0 is good, but we need
far better. I would like to see something along the lines of a rating
system, or a recommended list. For example if someone were to bring up
the package list of games in the gui package manager (something else
needed), there would be 1-5 stars or something next to the name of the
game. The user couldn't care less wether the package is in non-free or
contrib, all they care about is that it gets on and he can run it. This
applies to all the packages. If I was new, and needed a mail program, how
would I know which was feature laden, and which was not? How many SQL
servers are out there? News readers? Text editors? In the package
description, I think we should include what task the specific program
would be best utilized for, ie:
gimp: <descript>
Application: Develop graphics for a variety of purposes, web pages, icons,
backgrounds, photo touch-up, etc
blah, blah, blah
Another thing that would help out, would be to have a feature, where the
user can specify what the computer will be doing, ie web server, general
workstation, graphics, or development. This information could be used to
filter a list of packages more suited for the task at hand. (All packages
could be viewed if desired, of course). A general user probably has no
need for all the math applications, or 300 text editors.
I know the first response is going to be: Ah! then we are like redhat.
But I think more of this depends on how well we implement it. If it is
done well, I think it will be a big boost to our usablity. How many times
have you installed a package, only to find out it wasn't what you thought
it would be like?
I think having a million packages is awesome, I wouldn't want it any other
way. There is a use for every single one of those. I want more! But I
think in all reality, a way to sift through them would be beneficial to
the distribution.
-Matt
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