Choosing an operating system for a business may seem like a no-brainier: Windows. It is definitely the front-runner, but contrary to popular belief it isn’t necessarily the only choice for the small business environment.

We are briefly overviewing three operating systems: Windows, OS X and Linux. We are not taking into consideration the version (Windows XP vs. Vista) or type (Linux: Unbuntu vs. Red Hat).

Selecting an operating system for a business is a topic we could write a short book on, so we are going to just mention some highlights worth considering.

Windows biggest advantage is its dominance in the software industry. Companies want their applications and documents to be compatible with their partners’, suppliers’ and customers’ applications and documents. It’s hard to replace a computing environment that provides that level of compatibility, even if it resembles a nagging mother-in-law who always tells you need to update your software.

A majority of PCs come preinstalled with Windows and a large majority of the work force uses Microsoft — making Windows the front runner.

Some people think Macs are for trendy, free spirits who care more about style than usability. Some users very well may fit into that mold, but OS X is ready for the enterprise role more now than ever.

If you have a graphic design business or edit video OS X is the way to go. But, in the past, offices that needed Macs had to have separate Windows machines available.

Not anymore.

Using the new parallel desktop software for the Intel-powered Mac you can switch in-between Windows and OS X operating systems on one computer without rebooting.

The new Apple Remote Desktop management system offers many of the features IT departments would need to roll out a fleet of Macs, including tools for configuring applications, controlling what software is installed on desktops and applying upgrades.

Not all organizations can afford commercial operating system licenses and expensive hardware support contracts. IT budgets aren’t growing with users’ demand for speed and storage. If you have budget constraints, Linux could be the way to go.

Companies could save thousands of dollars a year by using open-source products like the Ubuntu OS and Open Office software.

Linux is the “some assembly required” approach and a large downfall of these Linux operating systems is they are in “permanent beta,” relying upon the user community to work the bugs out.

Keep in mind you don’t have to choose just one. You can mix and match operating systems within a business (we do it at The Bellingham Herald) and there is no definitive correct choice.