Microsoft going to the clouds, is it just for developers?
Microsoft launched its widespread initiative for cloud computing at an event in Los Angeles on Monday. Besides the obvious advantage for consumers and enterprise, is it simply a move to sway developers back to Microsoft?
Microsoft wants to drastically change the way it produces and distributes software and services, and announced its plans at the Professional Developers Conference, according to TechNewsWorld. By moving away from its somewhat antiquated and expensive way of distributing software, Microsoft seems to be willing to build expansive server networks to store user data and take the strain away from enterprise and home-based customers alike. The question is, will it work?
The idea is solid in theory: Microsoft could, in essence, rent its software to companies and individuals for a nominal monthly fee instead of charging hundreds of dollars, something people are slowly shying away from. Users could have their data automatically saved and stored online without the need to purchase large servers and hardware like they have in the past, and it would create more of a “Google Docs” approach.
Besides these benefits, many think the move for cloud computing is an attempt to charge its development community once again. “What Microsoft announced today is more about enabling developers to create applications that will run or be hosted in the cloud,” Sid Parakh, an equity analyst at McAdams Wright Ragen, said in an interview with TechNewsWorld. “It’s crucial to be able to offer all the different modes of software delivery to your customers,” continued Parakh.
The model of cloud computing seems to be working with those that have made the plunge. Companies like Amazon and Salesforce have seen success with their cloud-based models, and maybe Microsoft can use the same model to boost its morale and reputation among consumers. In my opinion, the biggest winning move Microsoft could make at this point, would be to offer its Office suite of software in the same form that Google offers its Docs suite of cloud-based software. Even better, they could take the approach of ad-supported software and make it free to the public. You would then have the classic Office suite that everyone is used to and has been using for years, free of charge and hosted in the clouds. Now that would be a move that would restore some of my faith in Microsoft.
Related Posts:
