Microsoft gets raped by ODF
Okay, so maybe they didn’t get completely raped, but it’s still funny to see the “almighty” Microsoft get stepped on from time to time. In case you haven’t heard the story of Peter Quinn, I’ll give you a rundown.
Quinn was the CIO (Chief Information Officer) for Massachusetts until he recently quit his position. Much to the chagrin of Microsoft, Quinn was pushing a mandatory ODF (OpenDocument Format) initiative for all state agencies in Massachusetts. Why was Microsoft mad about this? Because they don’t support the OpenDocument Format (read: no one would be using Microsoft’s own personal, licensed document format anymore). Microsoft protested this move towards ODF, saying that it was “inconsistent and discriminatory”. Is ‘discriminatory’ not having to pay MS to look at document files anymore? Maybe they use a different dictionary than the rest of us: Microsoft’s Guide to Rhetoric and Monopolies.
So why did Quinn quit? According to him, “I have become a lightning rod with regard to any IT initiative.” A pretty noble move I would say; lose your job to make sure the ODF goes through — which it will. Starting January 1, 2007, all state agencies in Massachusetts will use the new ODF. It’s good to see Microsoft with their backs up against a wall, struggling to keep up with everyone else in the technology community.
