Why haven't software companies adapted to Vista yet?

It is no secret that I am not a big fan of Vista, however I understand that Microsoft isn't going to move backwards so Windows users will gradually have to adapt to the new OS.

While consumers can take their time making the transition to the new Windows, there is no excuse for software designers who have dragged their feet in becoming Vista compatible.

Although Vista has been out on the shelf for only a couple of weeks, it has been out in beta form for several months. Software designers have had sufficient time to had sufficient time to update their programs for Vista compatibility.

Lately I have worked with several realtor's who have purchased new Vista computers. Each of them has had problems working with the MLS system that the county group uses. When they have called the software company they have been told that they should not have bought a computer with Vista on it.

Rather than work with the early pre-release versions of Vista to have their software ready, they waited for Vista to hit the shelves then scolded anyone who bought a Vista computer before they were ready.

Realtors aren't the only ones with this problem. I also worked with a local rep for a national insurance company this week. His computer died but he doesn't know what to do because the company told him that he shouldn't upgrade to Vista because the company's software isn't compatible yet. They also said that the Vista release caught them by surprise and they weren't ready for it.

I am frustrated with Vista, but I am also frustrated with companies that think that they can delay change in technology.

I compare this to music companies trying to prevent people from using MP3 players and go back to CDs. Consumers shouldn't have to feel compelled to keep up with technology, but anyone in the technology business has an obligation to stay ahead or get run over by someone who can do it faster, better and cheaper.

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