Group orders for Linux netbooks

A while ago, someone commented on my post entitled “Linux netbook market share dwindling down” about a problem he was having in buying a Linux based netbook. He was interested in an Acer Aspire One that has a hard drive instead of an SSD. The configuration was being offered in his location but is pre-installed with Windows. He wanted a refund on the Windows because he’s not going to use it.

It got me thinking. Maybe it would be a good idea if Linux users who want a certain configuration can be grouped together to form as a basis for ordering the computers and then have the manufacturer fill in that order as a group. That way we can get the configuration that we want and the manufacturer can get the sale plus the satisfied customer.

I don’t know if such a process exists so please post a comment if you know of one. It’s a good idea also since the order will be pooled into a single purchase and maybe it can also be discounted. One obstacle I see is filling up the order — but with most big manufacturers being computerized and globally represented I think it will just be a matter of paperwork.

What do you think?