Microsoft may face a backlash against 'bloatware'

Article Abstract:

Corporate IS managers are starting to question the wisdom of upgrading their systems to keep up with the latest trends in software. Much of the new software is so large and complex that it requires additional memory or the purchase of new computers in order to run it. Microsoft has experienced this trend through lukewarm response to its latest upgrade to the Office 95 software suite. Only 25% of current users purchased the upgrade. The company is facing a questionable market for the newest version of this product, Office 97. Java technology is offering smaller, modular applications that are automatically delivered over the Internet and run on a wide range of machines, including low-cost information appliances. This trend could make Microsoft's 'bloatware' obsolete, but the company is hoping its powerful features will prove more attractive than the low costs of competing offerings.

Marketing, Suites (Software), Market trend/market analysis, Integrated software

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Flight-simulation games are flying high

Article Abstract:

The popularity of flight simulation software is increasing as technology enables users to participate in interactive dog fights, flight simulation rides and to go to stores that offer flight simulation centers. Microsoft produces the most popular software program in the genre called Flight Simulator, which was released in its latest version in Aug 1993 and was the 5th best selling computer game in 1994. Computer software stores sell as many as 20 flight simulation software packages and also sell cockpits, joysticks and reference manuals. America Online offers an online resource center for users who want to exchange stories and suggestions with other flight simulator users. Kesmai Corp produces an online flight simulation game that allows as many as 80 users from around the world to fly in air missions in World War II.

Usage, Software, Product description/specification, Flight simulators, Simulation game, Computer simulation games, Microsoft Flight Simulator (Simulation game), Product Information

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As innovation slows, software companies pile on the features; it's called bloatware, and it crowds store shelves; Microsoft's small step; like owning a car in 1910

Article Abstract:

The software industry is experiencing a slowdown in innovation, consequently improvements tend to be incremental rather than revolutionary. Because software is shackled to design ideas that originate in the 1970's, PCs are becoming less useful for the tasks that they are performing, such as accessing the Internet or handling large volumes of electronic mail. Companies that are intent on expanding sales, but have no real innovate products, have resorted to adding marginal changes and new features to existing software. This is especially typical of Internet-related products, many of which are sent to market before sufficient testing is completed, resulting in bug-ridden programs filled with irksome glitches. Microsoft's Windows 98 operating system is seen by many to be an example of this industry trend.

Systems Software Pkgs (Micro), Operating system, Operating systems (Software), Operating systems, Design and construction, Microsoft Windows 98 (Operating system)

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