Friday, May 14, 2004

Linux creating shock waves in Microsoft's Tennis Courts!!!

check this one out :::
"
Microsoft's Ballmer: "Linux Requires Our Concentrated Focus and Attention"
April 29, 2004By LinuxWorld News Desk

Summary
In yesterday's annual strategy memo to Microsoft employees, CEO Steve Ballmer declared: "Noncommercial software products in general, and Linux in particular, present a competitive challenge for us and for our entire industry, and they require our concentrated focus and attention."

In a company-wide memo sent yesterday, Steve Ballmer called on Microsoft's 50,000-plus employees around the world to keep a very close eye on Linux and open source as a growing threat to the Redmond, WA-based company.

Some key extracts from the memo:

"IBM's endorsement of Linux has added credibility and an illusion of support and accountability, although the reality is there is no 'center of gravity,' or central body, investing in the health and growth of noncommercial software or innovating in critical areas like engineering, manageability, compatibility and security."



"Noncommercial software products in general, and Linux in particular, present a competitive challenge for us and for our entire industry, and they require our concentrated focus and attention."


"In this environment of lean budgets and concerns about Microsoft's attention to customers, noncommercial software such as Linux and OpenOffice is seen as an interesting, 'good enough' or 'free' alternative."


"There is always enthusiasm in our business for new concepts. So-called 'free software' is the latest new thing. We will rise to this challenge, and we will compete in a fair and responsible manner that puts our customers first. We will show that our approach offers better value, better security and better opportunity."


"While the noncommercial model may lead to many flavors of software, getting broad, consistent innovation requires coordination across many technology components. In the event of needed enhancements or fixes, the Linux development community, no matter how well intentioned, simply cannot advance Linux the way we can - and must - innovate in Windows." "
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a gans presentation...
G.

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