Expensive client-server software will soon be no more than a bad memory. The Internet is changing everything about the way software is bought and used - it's transforming software into a service rather than a product. Now that we have the Net, customers no longer need to spend lots of cash up-front for a new piece of software. Nor must they wait months or years for new features, patches or upgrades. Instead, they can access the latest applications and information online for a monthly fee.
Upgrades can be instant and frequent, with all technical problems handled remotely.
The frustrations of installation, license management and system administration can be eliminated forever. As usual, start-ups are driving this new model, forcing older, established firms to change or fade away. These new companies will displace old-line software vendors and render traditional distribution networks obsolete. Millions of individuals and small businesses now use Hotmail for their e-mail, saving money and time. Hot Office, another start-up, offers small businesses virtual networking for a monthly service fee.