The problem is that, as soon as they start charging, they open themselves up to liability. That's actually exactly what your bosses want: someone to take the liability.
Does Microsoft take liability for any of their software?
The Windows XP EULA states "Except for any refund elected by Microsoft, YOU ARE NOT ENTITLED TO ANY DAMAGES, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, if the Software does not meet Microsoft's Limited Warranty, and, to the maximum extent allowed by applicable law, even if any remedy fails of its essential purpose."
It goes on to state that the only remedy offered is your money back. Mozilla also offers your money back, all $0 of it.
just because the contract says that doesn't necessarily make it legally enforceable. plenty of contracts disclaim all implied warranties, yet there are plenty of situations in which that disclaimer is not enforceable (and liability is).
And yet all Software needs to be upgraded before Microsoft stops "supporting" it.
In 10 years of using their software in the industry I have never had any actual support from Microsoft.
Well, they want a business relationship. If I give you money for something, there is a social, legal and economic expectation that you have an obligation to give me whatever it is you took the money for.
Or, to flip it around, beggars can't be choosers, and since they're executives...
