[Villages Kahuna]

I've convinced four of my die-hard PC-user friends to switch to Macs. It was a long struggle and all of them initially bought Macs to "try it out", keeping their PC's for "real work".

I forewarned them that Macs don't come with a lot of instructions. In fact, in three of the four cases there was simply a sheet in the box with the new Mac with a series of pictures on it.

• Take the Mac out of the box
• Plug it in
• Press the Power On button
• Then follow the on-screen instructions

All four friends reported that they have never purchased a computer that was up and running within 10 minutes of cutting the tape on the box. And now all three have stashed their PC's in the closet and are using their Macs exclusively. Two have even bought Mac laptops to use when they travel. And they all report that they don't understand how they ever did without their Macs and ask themselves why they didn't make the switch sooner.

By the way, Sidney, I took a look at the open source applications listed on the link you provided. I've already tried a couple and they're very good. But I intend to try a few more. Thanks for the link reference.

[tony]

I'm looking for open source software for home accounting, like Quicken or My Money for the PC. I see some in this site. Has anybody tried either?

Also, seeking drafting a design software.

[JRietz]

Originally Posted by tony

Also, seeking drafting a design software.

Have you looked at Google SketchUp? There are a ton of features (2D & 3D) with a lot of libraries (including Google's 3D Warehouse). Here's the link to the free version:

http://www.sketchup.com/index.php?title=2

Jim

[tony]

Yep. I have Sketchup. Quite a learning curve. And dimensioning is no fun.

I still use it, though, until something better shows up for Mac.