Microsoft puts collaboration in the cloud for 'deskless workers'

Stephen Withers
Wednesday, 09 July 2008 07:09

IT Industry - Market

Do you have employees that don't spend their days sitting in front of a computer screen, but do need occasional access to communication and collaboration tools? Does Microsoft have a deal for you!

The new Deskless Worker Suite is intended for use by people whose primary function does not include the use of computers, but who do need access to collaboration and communication tools.

Priced at $US3 per user per month, the suite provides email, calendars, virus and spam filters, and access to SharePoint servers.

This approach reduces the amount of software that needs to be installed on PCs, and replaces expensive upfront licences with ongoing subscription fees.

Also new is a suite for information workers, combining email and calendars with full Outlook integration, SharePOint access, IM and presence, and web conferencing and videoconferencing. This package costs $US15 per user per month.

Each of the Microsoft Online Services that makes up these suites is available for separate subscription.

Microsoft Online Services represents the company's strategy to become a player in the rapidly evolving cloud computing space, without sacrificing its position as a major provider of desktop operating systems and applications. 'Software plus services' has become a company mantra.

"Microsoft Online Services is a key component of the software plus services initiative, and we're seeing customers, partners and even competitors embrace this flexible approach to the cloud," said Stephen Elop, president of Microsoft's business division

The company is selling the suites through its business partners. Please read on to find out how much they stand to  make, and what they think of the idea.