Microsoft Incentives

Sometimes the stars align and Microsoft desides that it needs to improve sales and they trot out a bunch of deals. We're in one of those times right now. Why? Because in 2008 Microsoft is rolling out the new version of many software packages. That means that customers are likely to wait until next year before making any purchases. If sales slump, then stock holders become unhappy and Microsoft doesn't want that! For the rest of us, this means it's bargain time. Here are some of the incentives they are currently offering.

Microsoft Financing: Finance hardware, software, services and training from 2 to 5 years. Special offer right now is the smart pay option. Pay $50, $100, $200, $500 or $1500 a month for the first 12 months your choice. It's a nice way to get that project done without killing cashflow.

Office Subsidy: Up to $150 per license w/software assurance purchased. Amount varies depending on which version you purchase. A check is sent to you to be used to cover the costs of installation.

Small Business Desktop Advantage: If you find yourself in need of purchasing Windows, Office and a server access license for PC's all at once. This program saves you 28% over purchasing each item seperately and provides on-going saving upgrades after year 3. In addition you're going to get the subsidy dollars for Office and the Server software.

Small Business Server Subsidy: $325 check sent to you to assist in paying for installation costs of the new server.

Map Point: Map Point is advanced mapping software. It's 20% off with software assurance.

Windows Server Subsidy: $120 check sent to you to assist in paying for installation.

Dynamics: $1000 flat-fee per database migration from Quickbooks and Quickbooks Pro. Migration provided by Microsoft Consulting.

Some nice offers. Now isn't a bad time to purchase if you need to, because with software assurance you'll be receiving the next version in 2008 when it is released automatically and it's always a good idea to take advantage of sales. These offers are scheduled to expire at the end of the year. I would expect similar offers to fill the gap between January 2008 and the release of the new versions later in the year.