Linux is an operating system created by Linus Torvalds, who was a Finnishuniversity student at the time of its development. The operating system isoffered free and has become the leading competitor to proprietary operatingsystems like UNIX and Microsoft. The heart of the system is referred toas the Linux kernel, which is the code that forms the basis of any firm'soperating system. The firm is then able to take that code and build on it.This adaptability has led firms such as IBM and Hewlett-Packard to useLinux as a base operating system. The development of a system like Linuxdemonstrates a consistent theme in many technological areas: the pattern ofdevelopment is difficult to predict. Firms must constantly scan the businesshorizon for changes that are occurring and look for the unexpected. A freeoperating system that becomes the backbone of many firms' efforts wouldhave been difficult to predict five years ago. Today, however, the resourceis widely used. Other firms such as Red Hat, VMware and Novellus Systemshave specialized in developing Linux applications. These smaller firmsare subject to acquisition. This raises many technology management issuesfor the users of the applications.

What type of technology does Linux represent continuous, disruptive, or next generation? Explain what such a classification of type of technology would mean for competitors and consumers?