Advertisements don't necessarily have to devalue a product that's free to the end user. It depends on how and where those ads are displayed.
Twitter is a good example of a product that could certainly use less obtrusive ad placement (i.e. no "dickbar"). However, it's possible to have noticeable advertisements that do not impede the user experience. Google, Bing, and Facebook are all great examples of this.
I realize the article is about more than just advertisements in free software. The common outcomes of free that Ryan speaks of are spot on in my opinion. However, I do feel that free, based on advertising, and good are not mutually exclusive.
Comments
Advertisements don't necessarily have to devalue a product that's free to the end user. It depends on how and where those ads are displayed.
Twitter is a good example of a product that could certainly use less obtrusive ad placement (i.e. no "dickbar"). However, it's possible to have noticeable advertisements that do not impede the user experience. Google, Bing, and Facebook are all great examples of this.
I realize the article is about more than just advertisements in free software. The common outcomes of free that Ryan speaks of are spot on in my opinion. However, I do feel that free, based on advertising, and good are not mutually exclusive.
Advertisements are also not the only way to monetize (and add value to) your product.