Windows 8 has attractive enterprise features

When Microsoft's Windows® 8 hits the market later this year, much of the talk surrounding the operating system will focus on its impact in the enterprise sector. Windows has long been the go-to platform for businesses, and as Microsoft® transitions into the tablet computer market, industry observers will be keeping a close eye on its delivery.

Technology news provider TabTimes points out that Windows 8 will have several features that appeal to business tablet users. Compatibility with Windows 7 systems should be a major draw. Even if companies undergo only limited Windows 8 deployments, they will not have to upgrade all their other hardware and software -- significantly reducing initial investments in the operating system.

TabTimes also notes that Windows 8's "immediate robust mobile device management" (MDM) features will be attractive to companies. MDM has become a major part of enterprise mobile strategies, as businesses look to control cost and improve network security. This could prove to be a significant advantage as tablets continue to penetrate the enterprise sector.

Some have speculated that Microsoft waited too long to get into the tablet race. But given the software giant's track record in the enterprise space, it is far too early to write the latecomer off, especially as the tablet market continues to evolve.