25th October 2009
The big news last week was the launch of Windows 7. Rarely, in recent years has there been such enthusiasm for the release of a new operating system, especially a Microsoft one. A combination of admiration for Redmond after the disastrous introduction of Vista and a market place desperate to see activity after the worst recession for sixty years is willing the new operating system on to greater heights.
According to Ovum, the analyst firm, the launch fits into the timing of PC upgrade cycles, and the ageing and retirement of Windows XP. From a buyer perspective, the analyst sees the Windows 7 launch as an opportunity to undertake some “serious housekeeping”, especially for organisations that have stuck with XP.
“One has to give Microsoft credit, this version of the Windows platform has had far more engagement with stakeholders than previous versions, with users (consumer and enterprise) and partners having substantial input, with specific demands for security, reliability and speed being the development cornerstones. Overall, the messaging of simplicity, choice and value seems to resonate, and it has the potential for Microsoft to rebuild some of the trust lost through Vista,” said Jens Butler, principal analyst, Ovum.
