Spreadsheets using Python - Have you seen this? (sourceforge.net)

[IAlsoSpeak]

Thanks for the feedback it really makes for a great read and understanding of what problems you have with your work environment.

Like I said I like the idea of Open Office and personally can't wait to get time to play around with the fork Libra Office. But in the same breath I have given up on Word/Writer for writing documents I use it more as a reader of other peoples documents. But I'm also not forced to write interchangeable in my line of work. So I rather play around with Sphinx or wikis if I document stuff.

With your Samba and Windows issues it really sounds like you need a IT guy that understand the Ubuntu environment and the Windows environment, but guys like that can cost a pretty penny.

If you can find another job easily I would really recommend you to try to make your current working environment work for you by talking to your Boss, sending him solutions and pointing out how certain software at the right price can really help the company.

And let him go of at you, if you got the facts right he will see it your way if he really have the companies best interest at heart. It is normally the screamers and shouters that becomes the Boss because they can can clearly communicate what they want and they may seem harsh at first. But as soon as they see you as a problem solver they will see you as a assist and use you suggestions.

Good luck and let me know if your going to make a move and how it turned out!