Because so many companies are holding onto their purse strings so tightly, Microsoft are watching their orders very closely.
Surely other options are limited? But that isn’t really the case. Open Source solutions are out there waiting to be found; and that is where the problems usually start.
Finding an Open Source solution for Microsoft Office is simple – Open Office has been around a long time and the latest incarnation is excellent. What about other types of software?
Where to start? You really can’t believe how much there is available.
If you put “Open Source Directory” into your search engine you will find lots of resources that will list available solutions.
Some are better than others but beware, some of the solutions have a cost involved that’s hidden, most are free.
From simple online calculators and eCommerce sites to full CRM solutions you can locate the best zero cost options around if you are prepared to trial a few likely candidates.
This blog is written using Word Press, another Open Source solution (and in my opinion, one of the very best).
So Microsoft are right to worry that they will lose some revenue, but this will be a short term loss. It won’t be long before companies gain confidence in the economy and Microsoft profits will rise again.
In the mean time, happy hunting.