Microsoft = Monopoly?

YES

Judge Thomas Penfield Jackson's long-awaited conclusions in the Microsoft antitrust case were labeled as simple "findings of fact." But by ruling that the software giant built by Bill Gates had ruthlessly stifled competition and harmed consumers, Jackson went further than most experts expected in declaring Microsoft guilty of misconduct as a monopoly.

Gates and his stunned aides indicated that they intended to appeal the decision. But the sweeping nature of the finding suggests that Judge Jackson wants to provoke settlement talks between Microsoft and the government on possible remedies. A settlement would let the court avoid ordering a breakup of a company that has helped drive the growth of the economy.

As a practical matter, the task of achieving a fully competitive playing field in the computer software business, one that encourages competition and rewards innovation, requires the cooperation of the best minds from Microsoft itself. That is why Gates must now ponder whether it is in the interest of his shareholders to fight the Justice Department with more appeals or enter into discussions that achieve these goals. Microsoft should recognize the sweeping nature of the government's victory. Certain facts about its behavior have now been established, and it is in everyone's best interests to achieve a solution.

--EDITORIAL

The New York Times

NO

[Judge Jackson's] NO findings do not represent a final decision in the case. They are one step in an ongoing legal process that has many steps remaining--in this court and perhaps at the appellate level.

We respectfully disagree with a number of the court's findings, and believe the American legal system ultimately will affirm that Microsoft's actions and innovations were fair and legal, and have brought tremendous benefits to consumers, our industry, and the United States economy.

Microsoft is committed to resolving this matter in a fair and responsible manner, while insuring that the fundamental principles of consumer choice and innovation are protected.

At the heart of this case is whether a successful American company can continue to improve its products for the benefit of consumers. This is precisely what Microsoft did by developing new versions of the Windows operating system with built-in support for the Internet....

Our industry is intensely competitive and innovative, creating great value for consumers and millions of new jobs.

Microsoft's products are popular because we've focused on our customers and innovated to meet their needs.

In this industry, no company has a guaranteed position. Microsoft has succeeded because we have been guided by the most basic American values: innovation, integrity, serving customers, partnership, quality, and giving to the community. We compete vigorously, but fairly.

--BILL GATES
Chairman and CEO
Microsoft Corporation