Google, Microsoft, and Others: Transforming the Desktop with Web Top software applications

1)       Do you agree that Web top software will one day replace suites of desktop applications? Why or Why not? Check out the features of a few of the web top products mentioned in the case on the internet to support your answer.

WebTop applications can replace desktop applications so long as network connectivity isn't an issue. People who work off-line will still require desktop applications or downloadable application modules. 4-16 Chapter 04 - Computer Software Arguments supporting WebTop applications: Increased real-time collaboration Internet ubiquity Personal mobility (login from anywhere) Minimal footprint on the local

machine Automated data backups (the data is already on the server) Usage tracking Facilitates document and knowledge management Rapid setup, simplified application maintenance Supports multiple desktop operating systems Arguments supporting desktop applications: Lack of Internet access Loss of personal control over data Avoid duplicate development costs (maintaining both web and desktop environments) Potential cross-browser support complications.

2)      Will Microsoft succeed in dominating the Web top? Why or why not: Visit the web sites of windows live, Office live and Google Apps and review their products and services to support your answer.

Its one thing to build a platform such as an operating system that supports the world's creative efforts, but it's a very different trick to build productivity tools. With productivity tools, only the files are dependant upon the tool, and tools to translate files from one format to another abound. As a result, switching costs between desktop or WebTop applications isn't nearly as high as it is for switching operating systems. Furthermore, Microsoft faces an enormous challenge from the open source community. Many high quality free applications exist, and with open source development, these applications improve every year. In this case, it really will turn into a........click below to read all.

matter of Microsoft against the world. Given the success of Unix/Linux in the face of the complexities associated with operating system development, the far simpler desktop/WebTop application competition should make even greater inroads. Windows live Windows live is an Internet search tool. It has an interface similar to Google's basic search page, but it lacks the features Google provides with its integrated desktop feature.19 Office Live Office Live enables online collaboration by allowing users to store and manage documents online. Features include file storage, file access control, and a direct interface through Microsoft's Office applications. Microsoft offers an end user version and a small business version.

3)      Should a small business invest its time and money in acquiring and learning how to use some of the web top applications mentioned in this case? Defend your answer based on your review of the web top products from the small developers, Google, Yahoo and Microsoft.

Yes. Basic versions of these applications are free, and by exploring the functionality offered, small business managers may find products that fit their organization's needs. Since advanced versions may also be subscription based and hosted by the vendor, the small business owner need not invest in equipment, technical expertise, or expensive software. In short, these applications are low-cost, low-risk, low maintenance, and available today.

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