Software giant Microsoft has launched Office 365, a new software-as-a-service product that will allow users to access desktop software on a PAYG basis.
The Office 365 products include the Microsoft Office suite, Exchange Online and the Lync Online software as well.
“With Office 365, your local bakery can get enterprise-calibre software and services for the first time,” Kurt DelBene, president of Microsoft Office, said in a statement. “[A] multinational pharmaceutical company can reduce costs and more easily stay current with the latest innovations.”
SMEs will be able to access the platform for a fee, while larger businesses and government agencies will also be able to access services on a different pay structure.
The product will first be available in the United States, and will be rolled out in 40 other countries during 2011.