'Open source software mart to witness consolidation'

At present Linux, the open source operating system as opposed to the proprietary softwares offered by Microsoft, has 350 distributors.

Das said that with a wide range of products, services and solutions, Microsoft has continued to enjoy a dominant share of the software solutions market through partnerships, localisation and local alliances.

Citing an example he said: "Ten years ago, we did not have server solutions and today, Microsoft enjoys a share of over 50 per cent in this segment. The issue with other players, including the Linux distributors, is that they operate in niche segments with nobody, even open source distributors, being able to provide comprehensive solutions."

Commenting on the Linux distributors, Das said that while they cannot charge money for the software, these distributors have now begun to charge amounts on the annual subscription model.

"But we clearly foresee a consolidation happening in the open source distribution market in the country and the number will come down considerably," he said.

He, however, added that Linux is here to stay and will continue to be present in the market, as the distributors will continue to download free software, integrate it into one package and provide this as a solution.

As far as Microsoft's association with government and its agencies is concerned, Das said that the requirements of central government agencies such as the armed forces and state government agencies such as electricity boards, tax collecting agencies and the like, vary, but the company has been partnering with agencies at different levels.