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Security, Security, Security
CIOs who had previously been forced to brave Microsoft's many security issues can now find other, suitable solutions that don’t necessarily require them to use Microsoft products. And if these options offer the right secutiy features, you can bet CIOs are jumping on them. Security is arguably the biggest reason CIOs turn their backs on Microsoft.
Where Are the Tablets?
Although it took some time for it to happen, CIOs are increasingly looking to bring tablets to their organizations. The only issue is, Microsoft has not been competing well in that space, and most agree that the best Windows-based tablets won’t come until next year. In the meantime, CIOs are going with products from competing companies, which could have a negative, long-term effect on Microsoft.
Windows Phone 7 Is A Nightmare
Smartphones are integral to the corporate world’s daily operations nowadays. And although Microsoft is trying to target companies with Windows Phone 7, it’s falling short. The platform lacks key features, its update process is poor, and there are better solutions elsewhere. That’s not good news for Microsoft.
Windows XP
Microsoft is waging a silent battle with companies around the globe that are still running Windows XP. As one might expect, Microsoft wants those firms to switch to Windows 7. But those firms, unsure about Windows 7, are content with XP. Windows XP is vastly important in today’s enterprise, and Microsoft can’t lose sight of that.
Apple’s iOS
Companies large and small are allowing employees to use iPhones and iPads in the workplace. In the process, they’re turning their backs on old favorites from RIM and Microsoft. Unless Windows Phone 7 can respond with something that makes CIOs and employees alike twice about iOS, the software giant could be in for trouble.
Google
The search giant is not only beating Microsoft on the Web, its Android mobile platform is stealing market share in the corporate world, as well. Combine that with its list of enterprise solutions, including Google Apps for Business, which takes on Office 365, and it quickly becomes clear that Microsoft must worry about Google's increasingly strong ties to the corporate world.
Where’s the Focus?
CIOs want to know that the company they work with will continue to innovate and deliver updates to the platforms they use. Microsoft has done that with Windows and Office, which will still dominate the enterprise for years to come. Elsewhere, the company is dividing its attention between consumers and enterprise users; this could cost them the loyalty of some CIOs.
The Cloud
Microsoft is trying to double down on the cloud with the help of Office 365 and Azure. However, many competing cloud solutions -- among them Google Apps for Business, Salesforce.com -- are causing some CIOs to think twice about Microsoft’s products. Microsoft might very well rule the cloud one day, but for now, it’s just one of many companies vying for CIO attention in that space.
Worry Over Windows 8
Microsoft’s next operating system, likely called Windows 8, promises some improvements, including the possibility of an applications marketplace and improved boot-up times. But will it deliver the right enterprise value? With Windows 7 still fighting for enterprise share against its precursor, some CIOs are thinking twice about their plans for future Windows deployment.
The Death of Internet Explorer?
Internet Explorer was once the only worthwhile browser choice for the enterprise, due mainly to the sheer number of Web-based applications that relied upon it. But times are changing, and companies are realizing that if they deploy Firefox or Chrome, they might get improved security. As long as a company doesn’t need Internet Explorer, many are opting for alternatives. And even those that need Microsoft’s browser now are wondering how long it will take before they switch to something else.
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