Microsoft is certainly seen as one of the top 3 software companies (right up there with Adobe, Oracle and SAP). But, unlike most other software, they have a monopoly on the market with products that perform “good enough” for most users to get by. Now, I know that the department of justice said that Microsoft doesn’t have a monopoly, but then how do you explain how Microsoft Office is deployed in nearly every PC and laptop sold in the U.S.?
The biggest customer complaint is about Microsoft’s software licensing practices, which are causing headaches all over the globe. The company has finally answered the call of many regarding virtualization and the 90-day rule, but certainly took its time!
Microsoft has created an environment where purchasing another product would cause so much chaos within your organization in terms of sharing files, converting formats and incompatibilities, that there is little choice but to put up with whatever they ask for – pricing, support and licensing. Challengers don’t stand a chance because they will eventually come out with a competing product, make it prettier, and cost a little less and of course, be compatible with other MS products.
I’m not complaining here, I think they are a brilliant company. We’ve dealt with many Microsoft audits and licensing issues and have watched organizations struggle with the policies. The good news is that there are third-party consultants – like Miro Consulting – that can help. I know this is a shameless plug here, but I couldn’t help myself this time. Microsoft just gave me a great excuse to do it.