[Bush2000]

The end to software and computer industries in the US will come from a lack of innovations. If we allow the industry to become the auto manufacturing of the '70s it will lose ground, but if we innovate, demand better products and not place all our eggs in one basket we will survive and thrive.

Rrrrrright. I can't believe you can type that drivel with a straight face. Try competing against a competitor who gives away his product at below cost: FREE. In any other industry, you would be screaming like stuck pigs; but somehow, when it comes to software, everything's hunky-dory. "Let the ChiComs and Japanese roll over the U.S.," you say. "Innovation will save us." Rrrrrrrrrrright. /SARCASM

[CyberCowboy777]

Free?

You actually think that quality supported product is or will be free for long?

Your ignoring the situation to serve your agenda.

[TechJunkYard]

Try competing against a competitor who gives away his product at below cost: FREE. In any other industry, you would be screaming like stuck pigs; but somehow, when it comes to software, everything's hunky-dory.

Most threatened and actual defections from MS are directly caused by licensing issues and costs. When MS gets a little more competitive on price and loosens up a bit on restrictions, it usually ends up saving its contract.

Quit whining and figure it out.