Thats a good one, spose I can sort of answer that as I am a Master CNE.
Novell developed 'Directory Services', 'Tree's', etc long before MS, but essentially they are much of a muchness now.
The old 'rule of thumb' was that if your primary requirement was for file and print services, they go Netware. If your primary requirement was application, go MS.
Each has its additional parts, MS has SMS for example, Novell has Zenworks.
Zenworks is a very powerfull tool, integrating application delivery, os delivery, application metering / monitoring / licencing, inventory and asset management with the DS.
The Netware product is now Linux based I belive, with GUI interface.
Do you need to choose one?, if so what are your requirements?
Did you know you can use both together?, the Novell product can manage the AD for you, giving one management tool for all.
Try looking at the Novell Website for info, although Novell has always been aimed at techies more than your paper MCSE boys.....
And before anyone flames me ----- I am also an MCSE, I just prefer Novell, but have to stay neutral
MS is most widely spread at the moment, but thats what billion dollar marketing does for you. A lot of the Councils, and NHS seem to be going back to Novell, you never know Novell may become dominent again.
Regards
Rik