Who’s to Blame for Vista Incompatibility?

By most estimates Windows Vista sales have reached well over 20 Million by now, and many of these sales were bundled as the preinstalled operating system on new computers. A large number of new Vista users have encountered issues running their favorite software programs and hardware devices, the same products they depended upon as a Windows XP user. Most industry experts accept that there is a period of maturity that must be afforded to new OS releases, one that allows software application and hardware/peripheral manufacturers to ‘catch up’. Understandably, most end users want everything to work correctly right away. With this notion in mind, who is to blame for Windows Vista compatibility issues: Microsoft or the other hardware/software companies (manufacturer partners) out there?

On one hand, manufacturer partners complain that Microsoft didn’t make the necessary tools as readily available as they could have. This is a thought that can be quickly dismissed as most major industry players (Symantec, Trend Micro, and Adobe) had no problem offering Vista compatible versions in a timely manner. In fact, the launch of Vista was delayed a number of times, affording even more time for the manufacturer partners to prepare. SDK’s and other materials were available for months and years before the big release. Those who have been caught with their pants down can be easily divided into two categories:

1- The Complacent: Simply didn’t realize the significance of the Windows Vista release, or didn’t devote enough time and effort to it.
2- The Needy: Simply didn’t have enough resources to devote to ‘hurried’ Vista compatibility. Major players have no excuse, but many smaller ones cannot be faulted.

Microsoft’s fault may lye in communication more than any other area. Perhaps they can exert more time and energy in contacting their manufacturer partners about available resources and expected release dates. They should also spend more time injecting a sense of urgency into the manufacturer partners.

One thing is for sure: most of your computer hardware and software will offer versions or drivers for Vista soon. Let’s hope we don’t face the same issue when the next big OS is released down the road!

Talking Point: What do you think? Who is to blame and how can we avoid this in the future?

When is Software Assurance a Good Idea?

How can Software Assurance save you money? It is all about timing! Software Assurance (SA) is an ‘add-on’ for Microsoft licenses that gives you 2 years of upgrades to new releases (3 years with Open Value) as well as support, training, and other benefits. Here are some products that Wasatch Software suggests you purchase Software Assurance on, and some others that you may want to pass on SA with:

Buy Software Assurance!

*** Windows Server: A new release is expected within the next year. Upgrades for Windows Server do not exist, so SA is a must for technically progressive organizations.
*** Windows Vista: Though a new release may be several years out, SA on top of your Windows Vista licenses gives you the rights to use Vista Enterprise or Ultimate. Vista Enterprise is only available to Software Assurance customers.
*** Terminal Services CALs: When a Windows Server is upgraded, the CALs have to upgraded as well.

Pass on Software Assurance!

*** SQL Server: It took Microsoft around 5 years to release a replacement for SQL 2000, and SQL 2005 has only been out about a year. You do the math!
*** MS Office: New versions were just released, making it unlikely that anything new will come out anytime soon. Please note this only applies to Office for Windows. Office Mac customers will likely benefit from an SA purchase.
*** Exchange Server: Like Office, we’ve just seen a new version.

This list is in no way a rule for all organizations, but just a general guide. Many organizations may benefit greatly by purchasing Software Assurance on all of their Microsoft licenses. Cutting edge customers can certainly appreciate the support and training options that full SA coverage can provide. Other organizations, however, do not require the latest technology or may not have systems that can even run the newest versions. If this describes you, we suggest avoiding the cost of SA all together. If you are wondering if a new release is on the horizon for a product not listed, or if still aren’t sure if Software Assurance is right for you, contact us today for a free software license consultation.

P.S.- A reseller suggesting you don't buy an add-on? Did you ever think you'd see the day???

Wasatch Software Announces Free Software License Research

Wasatch Software has announced that it will offer free software license research for volume license customers. This free software license research service offers your organization many benefits:

• Ability to locate previous purchases that you may be unaware of
• Helps eliminate duplicate purchases
• Assists you in avoiding legal liability associated with the use of unlicensed software
• Available for volume license purchases from Microsoft and other software vendors

This unique service utilizes partnerships that Wasatch Software maintains with several major software vendors. Please visit our software license research site today for more information.

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