It's a shame Microsoft didn't elaborate.
However, I'll bite:
> Will your Linux provider be able to support your entire infrastructure in the Cloud if the time comes?
We wouldn't put our entire infrastructure in the "Cloud", nor would our provider suggest it. Other companies have done so, though. While speaking informally, they're not happy with being "in the cloud" generally - regardless of provider.
> Does your provider offer a robust group of offerings, including Infrastructure-as-a-Service (IaaS) and Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS)?
I'm not very good at buzzword bingo.. but yes, they do provide their infrastructure and platform as a service.
The last outage was about 18 months ago, entirely our fault.
When was the last Microsoft cloud outage?
> Are they focused solely on the private cloud,
No, they're not focused solely on the private cloud - nor are Microsoft.
> and can they support Microsoft technologies for your existing Windows, Office, SQL Server and .NET users?
We have no need for supporting users of Microsoft technologies, so I really don't know how they'd be. Crap, I guess.
> Considering starting your next project on Linux?
Yes. Have you?
> Acquisition costs are a fraction of the Total Cost of Ownership of software projects. Will skilled talent be readily available if your project grows?
Yes, we have been successful in the past and we don't expect any problems in the near future. Personal note: Finding a good Windows developer out of the crowd of clowns is more difficult.
> What will support costs be if you choose to outsource?
This is not something we have considered.
> Could future migration costs be prohibitive?
We do have a back-out strategy. We're not locked in.
> Will patching and security lead to downtime?
No. We do not use Microsoft products in production.
> We encourage you to fully assess these factors.
Good advice, I will read more than just this "article" when deciding what platform we'll use...
> What does the vendor ecosystem look like for your proposed Linux solution?
There is more than one.
> Do your potential partners have a certification program for their professionals and how extensive is their experience?
To be honest, in my role I really don't give a damn about our "potential partners". Most non-windows shops seem to be adept, in my experience.
> Persistent threats and dedicated attackers can slow your projects and put your IT environment at risk with Linux projects.
As with all platforms, as Microsoft has experienced.