I got this idea when I saw a post on some random forum, where someone had said that they would consider dual booting into Ubuntu, if there were a 'Ubuntu/Linux for beginners' book that wasn't for 30$.
He was looking on amazon at the time, and probably did not even look at the Ubuntu documentation. I haven't either until now. It's not easy to read and certainly not designed for beginners.
So, what I'm thinking is to provide exactly what he was thinking. A "Ubuntu for beginners" virtual book that can be easily printed and distributed with an open source licenses, Similar to the "wikipedia" physical books. The book may be sold for the cost of materials, or could easily be printed from home.
It could be featured somehow on Ubuntu's "shipit", as an option for new users.
Since it is specifically designed for beginners, it should not be deeper than necessary, and explain everything someone new to Linux needs to know to install and use Ubuntu.
The actual website for constructing should be Drupal with the "books" module. Many of the Ubuntu website's are already using Drupal (Including Ubuntu QA), and the books module provides the best and easiest features for both writers and readers. The pages can be easily ordered and structured in the book. The pages can be individually viewed, individually printed, or printed as a book.
Since Ubuntu QA already uses Drupal framework, it makes sense to use it on this "site" but give it it's own subdomain. Users of Ubuntu QA will not need a new account and Drupal will not need to be re-themed as much.
Others have said:
"I think that this is a brilliant idea. This would very much help the many new users that have just ventured out of Windows for the first time."
"Yes, it would be nice with a free .pdf Ubuntu book. The guy is just making excuses though. Or do did he buy a "Computer for beginners" and "Windows for beginners" book, too"
Contribute your own thoughts and vote on my idea on Ubuntu Brainstorm.
If the idea reaches 200 votes, I'll make the framework for it myself and host it (maybe temporarily) on a neomenlo subdomain. Ubuntu Brainstorm uses drupal, which I am very familiar with.