SteveJ-restore-test

I've written on Microsoft heading for financial trouble and mounting internet security problems - but they have an underlying cause. Both ignore the hard-won Unix principle: Less is More . [the joke behind the pager, 'less'] This isn't just some arbitrary style choice, it's rooted deep in Computer Science and Software Engineering: smaller, cleaner interfaces - many fewer bugs if bugs/LOC is static (errors = LOC squared ) smaller code - potentially better understandability the Einstein principle: As simple as possible, but no simpler . Controlling system entropy - smaller code, less entropy to grow. Learning curve for new maintainers is lower - "cognitive span" of individuals not exceeded Learning curve for programmers lower and risk of errors of misunderstanding lower. More is Worse in Software Engineering - in every technical dimension. Microsoft has gone on to demonstrate that it is possible to have excessive 'customer features'. But this isn...

Previously I've posted on my conjecture that Microsoft will hit turbulent financial times in 2010: Microsoft Troubles III , Microsfot Troubles II and Microsoft Financial woes in 2010 This article in CNN Money/Dow Jones Newswire cites data on some of the early effects becoming apparent. Sales of Windows grew just 2% in the first quarter of fiscal 2009, which ended Sept. 30, 2008 . In most years, Windows posts double-digit revenue growth, according to company data. There are three dimensions on which Microsoft profits will be squeezed. Partly on volume, but mostly on margin. [Update 1-Mar-09: Another dimension - Moore's Law CPU-speed] Note : I'm not predicting Mircosoft will go away - I expect their brand (or descendants) to still be available in 25-50 years. I'm only saying that MSFT (the 'stock ticker' symbol of Microsoft) will hit a financial pot-hole around 2010. The economic fundamental is their 90+% gross margin - it is much too high to sustain. Manufactu...