Letters to the editor: Microsoft's changes to Licensing 6.0

By Catherine Ketcher, Site Editor 13 Jun 2003 | SearchWinIT.com

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Recently, SearchWin2000.com asked our members to send in their comments on the changes Microsoft is making to Licensing 6.0 and to let us know what they'd like to see in the new Software Assurance maintenance program. Here's what a few of our readers had to say.

Refund, please
Submitted by Arthur B.

What I would like to see in the new Microsoft Software Assurance maintenance program?

That's an easy question. How about my money back!

Currently Microsoft desktop software cost so much I could hire a personal assistant for each and every employee teaching them how to work with StarOffice or something and still save billions in less then six years.

So I guess the real answer to your question is: doesn't matter. Won't make use of it.

The marketing machine
Submitted by: Rob Karatzas

The v6 licensing was and still is an ongoing marketing catastrophie for MS and the supporting development communities.

For some odd reason, it reminds me of the now extinct DEC - Digital Equipment Corporation (purchased by Compaq). They had the best hardware and software technology, 20 years ahead of what we're seeing now, extremely competitive pricing, but their marketing machine just never evolved with the times. Marketing just never seemed to "grow up" and was constantly shooting themselves in the foot or leading the technical troups off course...

From what I understand about the various bundlings and marketing strategy for Office 2003, I think it's time for some changes at the top for both Marketing and Licensing.

Blowing off steam
Submitted by Hal Douthwright

This little tech fan has come up through the stages from 3.1 Windows and into XP Pro and I must tell you it stops there.

One thing I have found is that Bill Gates will not be pushed into doing something he doesn't want to do. That includes fighting the federal system tooth and claw. Just stop and count the bugs and system problems that have followed 3.1. I will not be suprised that it really scares you.

The compatibility problems have not gone away. Having said that, they have improved somewhat, but have a long way to go. Software producers are having problems unless they conform to Microsoft systems.

The solution: Share the open source code and all will gain from that experience.

Sorry, this is my moment to blow off some steam.

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