As the Suit Proceeds, the World Changes... FOR MICROSOFT: -- Depending on the outcome of the preliminary injunction, the company may have to curtail exclusionary dealmaking and limit future product tie-ins -- The company may become more cautious in its behavior, from its acquisitions of startups to entering new markets -- No matter what, the company will be forced to expend energy and resources fighting the government FOR THE REST OF THE INDUSTRY: -- Startups and investors may be emboldened to launch new ventures if they see a more circumspect Microsoft -- PC makers may gain substantial bargaining power in their dealings with Microsoft and software makers -- Netscape may get a free ride that could strengthen the company. But it's unlikely to see a complete reversal of fortune Return to main story

Updated May 21, 1998 by bwwebmaster
Copyright 1998, by The McGraw-Hill Companies Inc. All rights reserved.
Terms of Use