steveh
Moderator
Registered: 05/12/08
Posts: 52
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| | 10/06/08 at 07:31 PM | Reply with quote | #1 |
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In our blog, we asked the question: Which emerging technology will make the biggest difference in the way we do business?
In my opinion, the competition aimed at the Windows operating system holds the most potential to change the way we do business. I don't think we've seen so many legitimate threats to Windows as we do right now. The three big contenders that come to mind right now are:- Ubuntu
- Mac OS
- Internet
The most potentially game-changing option out of all of those is the internet. It's already taking users away from Microsoft Office. Just think of all the mobile computing options we'll have if we can use the internet as an OS. The implications are staggering.
I believe this will happen eventually, but I'm torn on when it will happen. Allow me to explain:
Why it will take a while to happen
Outside of the technology industry, very few people even know of other options besides Windows. You mention Google docs to most people, and you'll get blank stares. In fact, if you mention Firefox or Chrome to most people outside of the tech industry, you'll receive blank stares. I know, it sounds ridiculous, but it's true. Change is difficult, and many aren't interested in learning something new. Windows is working just fine for them, and figuring out how that worked was hard enough. Let's be honest, people don't like change.
Why it could happen sooner rather than later
It was wide enterprise adoption that drove Windows to the top. Right about now, companies are looking for ways to save money. Switching to a web-based OS would do just that. If many companies decide to switch away from Windows, money will be the determining factor.
Bottom Line
I think Windows is safe for a while, but Microsoft Office will begin to feel the heat in the near future. There are already many alternatives available, and come with huge cost savings. I mean, let's face it: If I can get Google docs for business at a fraction of the price of Microsoft Office, taking into consideration the benefits of being web based, it's a no-brainer. |
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