Over the last few months we've been testing alternative open source products to Microsoft SBS 2003 and Exchange.
Open
Source is intended to be an alternative method of writing software,
were you offer the source code to be downloaded on the public domain.
The Methodology prevents previous 'Black Box' proprietary
systems, removing the need for clients to always use the same Vendor.
This has the additional benefit for the authoring company that their
product can be tested on many different Hardware, in the community and
reducing the amount of support needed. Also any suggestions for future enhancements can be receieved from the many community contributors
Many Open source solutions offer a community edition to test ( with most features
enabled) or a 30 dat trail, then you need to purchase the full blown version to get the Business critical parts.
Often a support package is needed as well to insure Updates and Telephone/Web based support is available.
One product we have found to be very impressive is Scalix, a serious alternative to Microsoft SBS and Exchange.
You can download a community edition FREE of charge and Installation, Admin
and Migration manuals and Community forums are well used and supported.
Scalix also has an Outlook connector available so you don't even need to change the clients apps.
Run this on top of Redhat RHEL 5 and you have a great, out of the box, replacement for MSoft's/ Lotus domino bespoke system Freeing you use use non Microsoft Groupware solutions ( Anti Sharepoint)
If you would like a trail on this type of solution, which we are now offering as a alternative for Virtual HQ / VPN cleints, Please contact sales and ask for Mark.
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