[Info-vax] The real problem that needs solving to grow VMS

[Arne Vajhøj]

On 11/1/2022 4:13 PM, David Goodwin wrote:
> On Wednesday, November 2, 2022 at 8:30:18 AM UTC+13, Arne Vajhøj wrote:
>> On 11/1/2022 6:16 AM, David Goodwin wrote:
>>> And probably the reason why there is no software for OpenVMS is that
>>> it's too obscure, almost certainly because of it's licensing situation. Until
>>> its cheap and easy to license like its competitors, I don't really see it
>>> having any chance.
>> I am not aware of buying VMS licenses should not be easy. You
>> contact VSI, you pay and you get your license. Anyone have had
>> problems?
>>
>> Some may think the price is too high. But heck I also think that
>> Ferrari's are too expensive as I can't afford one, but that is life.
> 
> I don't have to contact Microsoft to buy windows licenses - I can do it all
> online with my credit card. I don't even *have* to buy a linux license - I
> can just download the ISO. Even something as obscure and niche as OS/2
> I can just buy online from the Arca Noae online store. The prices are all
> right there in the open.
> 
> What does OpenVMS cost? I really have no idea - I'd have to email
> someone. And is the cost going to be the same as what everyone else
> is paying or am I going to be charged extra because I'm not a big
> customer? I'll likely never know.

In the consumer market buying in web shop, download image
and get the license in the email is common.

I am a bit skeptical about that being the case in the market
VMS operates in. Usually it is "friendly" sales people working
with customers to make sure they get the right stuff, get some
special discount, discuss service agreement options and asking if
they need consultant help installing.

But if VSI customers want self service, then setting up
a web shop would be very easy for VSI.

Arne