Dave: I don't have the data necessary to measure growth exclusive of the effects of Broderbund and Sofsource but, since both of these companies were declining, it is likely that the year-over-year comparisons would look better without them. Paul, on the other hand, seems to believe the opposite. I think he's wrong.
Note that my post does not include information about either Game or Finance software (the remaining PC Data categories). Specifically, it does not include Myst. My perception is that TLC intends to specialize in Education, Personal and Reference software. It has comparable market share in each of these areas and less market share in other areas. For these reasons, I believe that we should always discuss TLC's ratings in this context.
Also, please note that PC Data reports a 70% sample, an 80% sample, and a 100% estimate based on the 80% sample. It is important that we know which measurement we are referring to. The 100% estimate seems to be the most sensible choice to me.
As to the future, I understand that sales are continuing to improve and that market share is growing, especially at the expense of Cendant. |
