Microsoft Vietnam has launched an open license publication (OLP) programme to help small and medium-sized enterprises legalise their Windows software applications during the fourth quarter of this year.

With the exception of the Windows operating system, it will be possible to transfer other Microsoft products purchased under the OLP programme from one computer to another whenever an enterprise upgrades or replaces its old PCs.

According to a report published recently by the Software Business Association, Vietnam’s copyright infringement rate has reduced from 88 percent in 2006 to 85 percent in 2007. However, the country still suffers losses of US$200 million per year as a result of copyright infringement.

Microsoft plans to publish additional information relating to the OLP in future to help businesses improve their understanding of Microsoft’s licensing mechanisms.