The mere thought of converting a company's operating system can be enough to send shivers down the spines of any executive or IT professional.
Not only can the process be time consuming, but it can also cost the company revenue in downtime during the conversion process.
Add to that the problems plaguing Windows Vista users, and this new miracle operating system can actually look more like a nightmare.
It took the Microsoft Corporation four years to deliver the much-anticipated Vista software, but some users are opting not to upgrade rather than deal with the hassles of the operating system.
However, not all is lost.
Windows Vista does have dramatic advantages over Windows XP such as - more stability, greater anti-virus compatibility, better image management, greater desktop control, advanced security and granular control of devices such as USB drives.
Overall, Windows Vista offers improved performance.
But it also is completely different from any other Windows operating system, which may cause some users to learn how to use their PCs all over again.
According to the Associated Press, users' early complaints aren't a threat to Microsoft's dominance in operating systems.
The various flavors of Windows run 93 percent of PCs worldwide, says the research group IDC.
Last fiscal year, Windows accounted for about a third of Microsoft's total revenue of $44.
3 billion.
Industry analysts say Vista adoption is plodding along as expected, with most consumers and businesses switching over as they replace old hardware with new.
IDC analysts expect Windows Vista will be installed on the vast majority of computers in about five years, the time it took for Windows XP to reach 84 percent of PCs.
Despite the positive industry expectations, users have reported major problems, most having to do with non-functioning hardware such as printers, fax machines and mobile devices including Personal Digital Assistants (PDAs) and MP3 players.
Multiple error messages and trouble connecting to the Internet have also been experienced.
So how can you safeguard against these types of problems if you plan to convert? I recommend these steps:

• Is your business using PCs that are more than three to four years old? If so, your move to VISTA will be much easier with new PCs.
  
• Forewarned is forearmed.
  Windows XP will no longer be supported effective June 2008.
  
• Put your trust in a reputable IT firm that can evaluate your current system and recommend the best approach for your company.
  
• Don't schedule your Vista migration when the company is extremely busy.
  If your business slows down during the summer, then this is the ideal time to convert and be poised for growth.
  
• Educate your employees about Vista and advise them of potential hurdles in order to keep frustration to a minimum.
  
• Remember...
  technology is an investment.
  Those that keep up with the pace, are better poised to meet the needs of their customers.
  

There is no reason to be afraid of a Windows Vista upgrade if you prepare accordingly and put your trust in an a business IT services expert to assist you in planning and executing the upgrade.