Having server-side code integrated with HTML pages allows our applications to contain logic and connect to databases. Often, clients request Microsoft products, and our experience is a great competitive advantage for us. For customers, it's a question of value. Microsoft products don't require as much custom development, it's easier for developers to come up to speed and to train users, and many of Microsoft's Internet products are free. You can't beat a deal like that.
Solutions have to run on multiple server and desktop platforms.
They have to be fast. As business changes, applications change. Microsoft products, such as SQL Server and SNA Server, provide seamless connectivity to existing databases and applications. Many companies are apprehensive about the Internet and what they must spend to get involved. Microsoft products allow companies to start out small, for a modest investment, and extend their participation into as many areas of the company as they desire.