Open Source

I have been thinking about moving my business to open soruce software of late to save money, but as I realised I already get all my Microsoft software as part of my Technet subscription so I don't need to worry, but what about my clients?

They use a range of software, generally Office for day to day tasks. I have used opensource software for years in other areas of my business but have found it very technical or difficult to setup or manage. Not all, dont get me wrong but some of it looks like it was written by a PHD Student studying Microbiology.

To keep it simple for business I suggested running a side by side trial of an alternative office suite to trial the alternative, but then I found people just leant back towards what they are familiar with, Microsoft Office. So with one client I just jumped in head first and installed Open Office onto their server and removed Office.

So far working well. There were a couple of familiarity issues and some troubles saving documents, but overall the results are good. The client saved $4500 in updating their office suite and the staff really don't notice any differences apart from the interface.

The options for opensource software are massive, you really need to research your options though.  Opensource does not mean cheal and nasty, for some it is, but for most it means that someone got of their backside and developed a program that suits a specific need, ie Office.

Microsoft Office Alternatives, a FREE alternative you can't go past Open Office - http://www.openoffice.org/