“This week, the ‘Open Source for National and Local eGovernment
Programs’ confab hits Washington, D.C. While Robertson isn’t slated
to present, Microsoft is–on its shared source initiative. What
concerns Microsoft so about Linux? What should the Redmond
juggernaut be worrying about? Microsoft Watch queried Robertson on
these very topics.“MS WATCH: Microsoft owns 90+ percent of the
desktop Windows and Windows-based office suite markets. They have
cornered these markets through OEM and volume licensing deals. What
real hope is there for you to penetrate here?“Robertson: It’s a question of economics,
namely LindowsOS offers much greater economics. Thanks to
StarOffice, we can offer file-level compatibility with .doc, .xls
and .ppt files for one-fourth or less of the price for Microsoft
Office. In a time when people are carefully watching their
spending, that type of savings is a real boon and matters to the
majority of people…”
Related Story:
PCLinuxOnline Interview: Lindows CEO Michael Robertson(Jun 20,
2002)