In a move that is sure to delight shareholders, several OEM resellers of Microsoft products are now offering free Windows Vista upgrades to customers that purchase new hardware installed with Windows XP. Microsoft is also offering a similar program that upgrades current Microsoft Office 2003 purchases to Office 2007. Strategically timed to bolster holiday sales in the consumer market, the promotions offer questionable value to enterprise buyers.

Saving the Holiday Sales Season with a Vista IOU

Unfortunately, Microsoft's worldwide release of Windows Vista will not make it in time for Christmas. However, PC vendors hoping to use the appeal of a Vista-ready PC to their advantage have found a new way to shore up sales during this lucrative holiday shopping season.

Several PC vendors are offering free or low price Windows Vista upgrades...