Microsoft to launch new office software by year end

Global IT giant Microsoft Monday previewed its latest office business software, called the 2007 Office System, and said a formal launch of this new set of applications would take place by the end of this year.An improved combination of applications such as word processing, spreadsheets, presentations and other programmes, the 2007 Office System is now available in Beta 2 (preliminary) version that was launched in May this year.“The Beta 2 version of 2007 Office System has been the most popular beta version of Office until now, with over three million downloads worldwide,” said Chris Capossela, corporate vice president of Microsoft.Out of 250 applications developed for the software, 25 have been in partnership with Indian tech firms such as Tata Consultancy Service, Wipro and Sonata, officials with the global software major said.
For example, solutions for product development in association with Sonata help customers in managing the entire process involved in launching a new product - from market research to its final introduction.
The solution designed by Tata Consultancy Services helps in financial reporting, while Wipro’s offerings automate claims management for firms in businesses like insurance, keeping in mind the needs of the mobile workforce, the officials said.
According to Doug Hauger, chief operating officer of Microsoft India, more than 300,000 Beta 2 CDs have been accessed in India. The software will be initially available for Rs.7,000 in the country, officials added.