"Software Centre"

[smhardesty]

Unfortunately, it's not that simple to use Synaptic, compared to the various 'software centres' around, its the antithesis of simple.

I don't understand the reasons for the lack of a simple software centre akin to something like Mint's or Deepin's. Having one doesn't in any way diminish the mission. I can only assume its not an easy thing to accomplish/maintain and there aren't the resources for it, which is a perfectly valid reason.

First, if you find Synaptic to be too difficult to learn to use, you might consider not attempting to install any software that isn't either installed by default with the version of Lite you have chosen, or is not available in the Lite Software list. Synaptic is one of the most user friendly and intuitive means of installing new software, removing software, updating installed packages, fixing broken packages, and doing upgrades. If you find Synaptic too difficult to learn and use, you might very well be overstepping your current limits.

As has been stated by Jerry and others on this forum, Lite's mission is NOT to provide every user with every piece of software available in the free market. It's mission and intent is to provide a very simple to use and easy to understand alternative to the Windows operating system. Once a person has become familiar with using Lite, hopefully they will continue to use it and learn to install the software they would prefer, either via Synaptic, GDebi Package Installer, Tarballs, or other means. The one thing each of those people needs to remember is that Jerry and the guys offer no support for such attempts. If they "bork" their install, it's a lesson learned. That''s not entirely a bad thing. Over the years I have learned many lessons from such failed attempts.

I guess in short what I'm saying here is that just maybe you need to consider learning more about Linux and how to install software. I seem to recall in another of your threads you made a comment about doing things from the command line. If you're familiar with command line use, why the need for a completely basic, easy to use, software installer? Do the things you need from the command line. If your request is actually for the recipients of the PCs your are giving away, let those recipients learn to use a basic Linux install before you offer them a way to install every piece of software Linux has to offer. I would even go so far as to remove the Menu listing for the Lite Software list. Users just new to Linux probably shouldn't be given a means to install, uninstall, change, tweak, fiddle, and fart with their new PC.

Just my 2 cents worth.