These beliefs are very prevelant.  The IT person for my group doesn't
beleieve in the concept of _free_ software and actually expects me to be
arrested some day for using R at work!  All I can say is keep the faith.

On 5/19/06, J Dougherty <jwd@surewest.net> wrote:
>
> On Thursday 18 May 2006 14:51, Damien Joly wrote:
> > Hi all,
> >
> > This may seem like a dumb question, but I work for an entity that is
> soon
> > converting to XP across the board, and I will lose the ability to
> install
> > software on my own.  The entity has a policy of only using software that
> > has been purchased and "properly licensed" (whatever that means).
> >
> > This means I will soon lose the ability to use R at work - something I
> > can't do without at this point.
> >
> > HOWEVER, I might be able to work around this policy if I can find a
> > licensed software vendor, preferably in Canada, that sells R.
> >
> > I tried googling R vendors but was unsuccessful.
> >
> > Any ideas?
> >
> Well, first, have you pointed out to whatever limited neurons came up with
> that specification, that this will mean that part of your job can no
> longer
> be done because their specifications appear to rule out a key tool?
>
> Second, R is available for windows and works quite well.  While there is
> no
> charge for R, it IS properly licensed properly licensed under the GPL.
> Theoretically, is system security is the actual issue, then the individual
> in
> charge of software acquisition can download and install it for you.  All
> of
> that should be clear and above board and shouldn't compromise anything
> unless
> the "entity" you work for has become contractually constrained to avoid
> using
> OS ware for some obscure and irrational reason.
>
> What do they actually expect to gain from this policy?
>
> The _expensive_ alternative is to have them purchase S-Plus for you.  If
> you
> present them with an estimated cost and l imagine they might think having
> the
> BOFH download R for windows for you might be the cost-effective way to go.
>
> JD
>
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