Microsoft South Africa has announced a range of discounts for small and mid-sized business software as part of what it is calling a "rescue package" to help cash-strapped SMBs through the current economic crisis.<\/p>\n
The promotion, which runs until 30 April, includes discounts of between 5% and 20% on software packages such as Small Business Server 2008, Office Small Business 2007, SQL Server and Windows Server 2008 and Windows Vista Business Upgrade.<\/p>\n
Mark Reynolds, acting head of the SMB and partner business at Microsoft SA, says the promotion is a clear response to customers seeking more competitive strategies and offerings in the current economic climate.<\/p>\n
"We believe that by betting on software, businesses can achieve greater productivity and cost savings, and operate smarter and more strategically, even in times of economic uncertainty. Taking a long-term approach and making the right investments and upgrades in times like these can position a company to take advantage of the next upswing by making an organisation more efficient and flexible, and by making its IT infrastructure more reliable," said Reynolds.<\/p>\n
The offers are being supported locally by distributors Workgroup and Comztek, who have confirmed that they will be passing the discounts on to beleaguered resellers and buyers.<\/p>\n
Workgroup CEO Doug Woolley says that the offers come at a time when SMBs have tough decisions to make when it comes to the health and wellness of their businesses, both short- and long-term.<\/p>\n
"In the short term, many businesses are worried about simply keeping the lights on: where can they squeeze and stretch a rand?" said Woolley. "Others are already looking to the future: Do they wait until the economy gets better before investing in their businesses? Or do they invest now and try to better differentiate themselves while revenues are down?"<\/p>\n
Comztek CEO Paul Conradie says smaller businesses are working twice as hard to stay where they are in the current economic climate.<\/p>\n
"One of the key focus areas of business software across the board is maximising the time spent on work that directly improves the bottom line. Familiar, easy-to-use business productivity software is a key component here as companies increase productivity and streamline processes," said Conradie.<\/p>\n
Reynolds says that traditionally, IT pros in the middle market live a very reactive life. "The best way for any business to get proactive with their IT investments is to have a discussion with those local trusted advisors who really know their business. That’s the conversation that really matters."<\/p>\n