Computer Weekly – 26 June 2012: Microsoft price rise angers customers

In this week’s Computer Weekly, we examine the reaction of Microsoft customers to the software giant's planned price rises that could see some users paying 25% more for software – and they're not happy. We look at HTML5 and ask experts if it will be the future of web app development. The latest part of our buyer's guide looks at how to procure desktop virtualisation solutions. We talk to Microsoft's Windows Azure chief about the latest upgrades to the cloud computing platform. And the CIO of insurance comparison site Confused.com tells us how standardising its development software has helped speed up time to market for new products. Read the issue now.

Microsoft licence fee hikes hit hard

Microsoft’s decision to increase the costs of volume licensing agreements demonstrates the power software suppliers wield over their customers. Businesses using volume licensing agreements are some of the biggest in the world, so Microsoft risks causing angst among its best clients.

Buyer's Guide to desktop virtualisation – part two: Desktop virtualisation demands a detailed request for proposals

Clear goals for a virtual desktop infrastructure (VDI) project allow IT service providers to craft a proposal that aligns with your strategy.

HTML5: The end of native apps?

The future of web programming is moving towards a common, cross-platform language with HTML5. But will software developers meet CIO demands for new web technologies?

Microsoft repackages Azure as cloud infrastructure on demand

Moving away from its traditional position in the market, the software giant is offering Windows Azure as on-demand cloud infrastucture to support both Windows and Linux workloads.

Migrating Confused.com’s platform to open the way for apps and cloud

Insurance comparison site Confused.com moved to a single Microsoft platform to accelerate the development of its products and reduce time to market. IT director Rex Johnson talks about the project and its benefits.

How technology is changing BPO

IT has become central to the provision of business process outsourcing (BPO) as demand for greater efficiency and lower costs is leading to increased automation and less reliance on people.

Broadband infrastructure deadlock drives rural campaigners to action

Rural communities are deploying their own broadband infrastructure as government funding issues stalls rural fibre roll-out.

Opinion: Beware what you ask of big data – you might just get the answer

Knowing the answers to particular questions derived through big data analysis can have far-reaching implications for a company’s processes and decision-making structures, writes Martha Bennett, head of strategy at analyst Freeform Dynamics.

This week's digital edition is sponsored by Flexera, Intel and Skillsoft.