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To: Daniel Schuh who wrote (16253)	1/18/1998 10:38:00 AM
From: Daniel Schuh	Respond to of 24154

With public opinion souring, Microsoft takes on a kinder, gentler tone infoworld.com This column is, on the whole, quite respectful of Microsoft. More so than I could ever be, given the subject. Yes, Judge, we must kindly, gently, ethically, courteously, morally inform you that you are a blithering idiot. You think you understand the English Language? Who cares, Microsoftese has superceded that archaic mess. It's all beyond the comprehension of mere mortals, much less subhuman lawyers and judges! As I've said, I think the "kinder, gentler" offensive ought to have waited a week or so, the ironic counterpoint of that middle finger from the top being raised ever higher seemed a little counterproductive. But maybe it's just a warmup, and Bill's dusting off his dancing shoes this very minute. Anyway, on to the conclusion. These strengths, however, are being outshined by concerns about Microsoft's contractual relationships with both OEMs and customers. Initially just a computer industry phenomenon, resentment is moving into mainstream. Microsoft has gotten a crash-course reminder that the company isn't just "Bill and the boys from Redmond" anymore. It is an extremely visible world leader and must act accordingly. The company has spent the better part of the new year visiting customers and the press. Although this more sensitive Microsoft won't dramatically change the company's successful business practices, executives are at least beginning to recognize how their aggressive actions can damage the company's image, and ultimately revenues if customers resolve to stay away from such a "partner." Oh come on, Let Microsoft be Microsoft! The polls show, the people love them! Too bad about that pesky little CIO poll. Must have been biased. Those CIO's are mere mortals too. The question remains whether the lessons learned will stick or be forgotten with the crib notes. The one legal tangle that truly could trip Microsoft is the 5-year-old contract workers' class action suit, which is expected to be heard by the U.S. Supreme Court this year. About 30 percent of its Seattle staff is classified as vendor contractors for which Microsoft doesn't pay regular benefits. In the last round, a federal appeals court said Microsoft must provide these contractors with employee benefits. So, this case has the chance to hurt Microsoft big in the corporate checkbook! And as it goes to the U.S. Supreme Court, this one is in the final round. Cheers, Dan.