Microsoft Winds Up Being Cheaper
June 2, 2014
Maybe to the dismay of users, Microsoft winds up being cheaper long term than open source software. When it comes to total cost, Microsoft actually overcomes seemingly cheaper options once all investments in the system are considered. The topic is covered in a popular forum, SlashDot. Visit this thread to read more, “Microsoft Cheaper To Use Than Open Source Software, UK CIO Says.”
The discussion begins:
“Jos Creese, CIO of the Hampshire County Council, told Britain’s ‘Computing’ publication that part of the reason is that most staff are already familiar with Microsoft products and that Microsoft has been flexible and more helpful. ‘Microsoft has been flexible and helpful in the way we apply their products to improve the operation of our frontline services, and this helps to de-risk ongoing cost,’ he told the publication. ‘The point is that the true cost is in the total cost of ownership and exploitation, not just the license cost.’”
So while open source is enticing, it is possible that many organizations enter into open source implementations without considering the cost of customization, security, etc. and all the staffing time that goes with that. And while there may be good reasons to still go your own way with open source, it is best to do the research ahead of time and possibly consult with professionals who can look at the total cost of installation.
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Emily Rae Aldridge, June 02, 2014