It's easy to criticize them about everything, but when you stop and think that they make $1.2 billion in net profit EACH MONTH, well, they're doing something right! They do a lot wrong, and stumble a lot, but if they want to dominate a market, well, they usually end up doing just that. They have a focus and determination to just keep going that few companies have.
I think that comes from Bill and Paul directly; having met both, they're very nice, mild-mannered, calm guys but have a VERY intense focus about them...
> ...they make $1.2 billion in net profit EACH MONTH, well, they're doing something right!
"Right"? Well, "Successful", yes.
A fellow who decides to take out his competition by standing in the center with a machine-gun and swinging it in a circle will be successful in eliminating his competitors. But he will not necessarily have "done something right" in an ethical sense.
I shouldn't have to give you the details, you doubtless know the people involved. ;-)
Viewed over the last 35 years, Microsoft's business tactics were more often than not ruthless, and a few times they were unethical enough that they got in legal trouble over them (I discount the more recent EU actions, since the EU is insane).
Other than that observation, I certainly agree with you about their focus and determination.