I think the real issue is whether the judge would be willing to issue a harsh order against Microsoft. My feeling is that he would not. Therefore, the government has some incentive to settle. If the judge hears that the DOJ took a tough stance against MSFT in any settlement talks, i think he could change his bias in favor of Microsoft. The only reason for the Government to take a strong negotiation stance is if the lobbyists like IBM, Oracle, Novell, Aol etc. urge them not to settle and keep MSFT embroiled in this bad PR environment. That is probably what would hold back a settlement in my opinion.
Of course, the trial phase should be over soon anyways. Then both parties can fight it out for years in appeals. However, I think Jackson wants them to settle; if they don't, he will rule in favor of MSFT since it is the easy way out. In addition, we keep hearing of this Linux with support from major PC industry players. I am sure Jackson notices all these happenings which can only strength MSFT's case. It is proof of the dynamic nature of the industry
Putting all this aside, MSFT's profit picture is great and so it the product pipeline.
Here is the story, in which he told both sides to use the time wisely, that is , the break in the trial.
quote.bloomberg.com |
