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In a perfect world, you will find that most Linux distributions install fine on the desktops you have around the office. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. So, whenever possible, test the PCs you have in mind for the migration to the new operating system before explaining everyone around you that the office is about to move to Linux. It will save you time and potentially embarrassment should one or more PCs prove to be a problem with regard to hardware compatibility.

In short, do your homework before setting out on a huge migration with all of the PCs in your office.

Tip # 2 -- Selecting and installing software

As much as it pains me to say this, not everyone in your SOHO is going to be gung-ho about the idea of dropping their familiar copy of MS Office to, instead, begin using Open Office in its place. While you might be able to make the transition easily enough, you'll want to take a less heavy-handed approach with your co-workers.

With proper MS licensing in hand, you might wish to look into using CrossOver Office. A commercialized version of WINE, CrossOver is a great way to keep your peers from lynching you for deleting their favorite office suite of all time, while still being able to keep to your timetable for the Linux migration.

By allowing the rest of the office the freedom to use the office applications they choose -- be it Open Office or MS Office, you will ensure that the switch to the Linux desktop does not suddenly turn into a mutiny over something completely avoidable.

Tip # 3 -- Be open to mixed feedback during the migration

During the course of the switch to Linux, you will, I repeat WILL, have some co-workers who are not interested in change. And should they happen to be your superior, it would serve you well to take their criticism to heart.

In most cases, this criticism can be halted by simply making sure that you provide access to that person's expected programs, most often MS Office and often, access to Outlook as well. Bundle this with OTA (over the air) access to the BES/MS Exchange server as per usual, and chances are they will not be a big problem for you during the migration process.

In some cases, it's as simple as ensuring that the user's desktop wallpaper looks the same as it did previously. Don't laugh; you would be shocked at how often this alleviates those who fear change to a new desktop environment.

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