The Microsoft Malaise - John Dvorak

John Dvorak has written an interesting article discussing what, in his opinion, is wrong with Microsoft. Microsoft, he says, has "virtually nothing interesting or exciting happening." He criticizes upcoming upgrades for not offering any compelling features. Vista he calls "a gussied-up version of Windows XP" and he says .Net "is being killed by Open Source systems that are free and almost just as powerful." He also discusses how Microsoft is becoming distracted by battles with Google. On the plus side, he notes the Xbox 360, though he says it has been hampered by the inventory shortages.

It is important to note that he believes Microsoft will continue to make "gobs of money" despite the issues. It is an interesting perspective even if I do not agree with every point he makes.

Now I am not a Microsoft hater, nor am I a fan (except of the 360), but I do think that more than any company, the ups and downs at Microsoft have the potential to affect us as developers. Anyone who has had to fight off a move to drop ColdFusion in favor of .Net knows the power of the Microsoft name and brand image, even if that image has been tarnished lately.