It seems Microsoft has only one defense left against Google’s incessant barrage with its Web-based software delivery model – mirror strategy.

That’s right folks. Microsoft has announced that its ultra-popular Office Suite and email program Exchange are now available online. Called Microsoft Office Live Workspace, it empowers users to create and store their Word documents, Excel spreadsheets, and PowerPoint slide presentations.

Just like Google Apps, users can easily share their files to other people. Bottom line, it makes life less stressful and more productive particularly if you are always on the go or work with cross-functional teams.

This catch-up move is construed as Microsoft’s desperate surrender to the changing software delivery model from license fee to monthly subscription. It also shows how its bottom line is negatively affected by this trend. In other words, Microsoft’s near monopoly of the software market might soon be over.

Or not. Conversely, this could also hurt Google Apps since more users are familiar with Outlook, Word and Excel. So, given the choice between 2 companies, Microsoft might have edge.

What I love about all these price wars and cutthroat competition is it pushes companies to enhance consumer experience through low prices or better customer service.

via Times Online

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