Software maker Microsoft Corporation has officially introduced into the market a significantly discounted promotional software that is targeted to benefit its expansive customer portfolio. Retailing at KSH. 3,999.00, “Microsoft Office 2007 Home and Student for Africa” is arguably the cheapest option for this market, slashing up to 60-percent of its normal price.
The release follows unprecedented feedback after years of in-depth listening to its customers and partners on this product which is made for Africa. What’s more, Office 2007 Home and Student edition can be installed on three computers - compared to the standard Microsoft Office license which lets you install the software on one computer plus a portable device for use by a single person.
This provision alone makes this version of Microsoft Office option good value for a family with several computers. The Home and Student edition can only be purchased as a full product in retail.
Apart from affordability that comes with this product analysts say it will contribute greatly to the anti piracy fight that continues to bedevil the industry. Statistics from the International Data Corporation indicates that Piracy of software on personal computers (PC) in Africa stands at 80% with industry losses, due to software piracy, in Africa estimated at over USD95 million.
The full packaged product which includes a Bonus DVD of training on Office Products was available in Kenya, Ghana and Nigeria from 15th December 2009. It contains Microsoft Word 2007, Microsoft Excel 2007, Microsoft PowerPoint 2007, Microsoft OneNote 2007 and the complete Microsoft Digital Literacy curriculum.
To underscore the significance of this new day for business,Mr. Louis Otieno,General Manager, Microsoft East and Southern Africa says, “As a pioneer in Information Technology, Microsoft is committed to ensuring that everyone has access to genuine software and the skills they need to achieve their potential at the most affordable pricing.’
He emphasizes that genuine software includes many features and enhancements that help to improve security and helps protect your computer from viruses and other malicious software as well as an improved automatic document recovery tool in cases of system failure.
“This means that documents are safe from hackers who may want to collect private data. With the advent of online banking and other forms of payment through e-commerce, it pays to operate on a secure platform with built in malware, firewall and online updates direct to your PC especially when banking from home or ordering goods and services online like courses and holidays,” said Otieno adding “This is one more way in which Microsoft is working to provide businesses and individuals with the tools they need to achieve their potential and hence the dream of “One computer per Home,” is almost realized. We are very excited about this product and will engage even more partners and resellers to ensure this product is available across Kenya.”
He further explained that other than the familiar programmes included in the training DVD the software offers basic to more advanced training on the use of the internet as well as suggests tips on possible careers in IT.
Mr. Robert Allela from Comztech, a Microsoft distribution partner said that with the recent Information, Communication & Technology (ICT) explosion in the country and with the landing of the fibre optic cable, Microsoft Office Home & Student 2007 product launch was overdue.
“Microsoft had come to the distributors’ aid in driving up the sale of genuine software in the country.Now everyone who desires the benefits of genuine software can afford to with the new Microsoft Office Home & Student for Africa,” said Allela.
He said there are often functions on computer software that the consumer would have to enroll for training to understand, but with the inclusion of the free DVD training included in the package, Microsoft has provided a solution.
“It means that it is functional from installation, as it is a computer based training program broadening the horizon for the user while giving the opportunity to explore and learn the wide range of functions of the software package. It enables the small business to perform more functions in house while the student can venture further into the world of computing independence, especially as the package can be installed on three computers making it even greater value for money and an interactive learning opportunity for the users,” noted Allela.
The International Data Corporation indicates that Kenya’s IT sector will generate more than 4,000 new jobs by 2011 and account for the creation of more than 100 new IT companies. According to the study, over the next four years, Kenya’s IT industry will drive Sh 2.7 billion in new tax revenues and contribute new revenues of Shs. 37.7 billion to GDP.
The research indicates that software spending represents 14% of the total Kenya IT market, while 32% of IT employees, in industry and the user base, are engaged in creating, distributing, installing, or servicing software.
The study reveals that 55% of Kenya’s 2007 IT employment stems from the Microsoft ecosystem.
The product is currently available at Microsoft reseller outlets Mitsumi, Mustek, Office Mart, Fones Direct, American Tech System, Insight Infotech Ltd.
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