Dennis,
Here's a theory on how the enterprise/CORBA stuff potentially fits within the combined organization. Microsoft built its current monopoly position because they own the desktop, the OS, and other key distributed computing components that actually work in a somewhat coherent fashion (i.e. COM, DCOM, MTS, IIS, etc). Microsoft has rationalized distributed computing (it works even though it can be UGLY<g>) for its installed base. This rationalization has not occurred in the Unix space because there are far too many players with point solutions involved to make it work coherently for the customer (i.e. the customer must manage the complexity). CORL/INPR, because of INPR's middleware offerings, actually has a shot at rationalizing distributed computing in the Linux space. They will own a number of key components required to make this happen: desktop, OS, and a strong CORBA offering. If demand for Linux continues, the ability to provide an end to end coherent infrastructure will be significant.
Carlos |
