The Independent: Sun Has Seen the Future–It’s In the StarOffice and It’s On The Java Cards

“Sun was one of the main beneficiaries of the dot-com boom, and
when the bubble burst it was hit hard. Companies such as IBM and
Hewlett-Packard–criticised during the boom for relatively
pedestrian performances–are now the main beneficiaries of a more
conservative attitude among computer buyers.

“Sun, which has always prided itself on its technical leadership
as well as a willingness to take risks, is being squeezed on one
side by both its larger rivals with integrated consultancy,
software and services arms, such as IBM and HP, and on the other by
companies that compete on cost. Prominent in this second group is
Dell, the company created and still run by Michael Dell.

“Speaking during a visit to Scotland last week, McNealy admits
that Sun has yet to shake off the post-boom hangover, and is now
being punished by the markets for its fall from favour. But he
denies that the business itself is dramatically off track…”

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