Let The Markets Regulate Microsoft

Microsoft recently announced what many will see as an unprecedented change in its business model for selling software as commercial products for use by customers immediately after installation. The company’s shift toward substantially greater openness is great for consumers and should put to rest calls for more government action in this area. While government pressure likely is one factor leading to Microsoft’s increased openness, it would be dangerously simplistic to think such an important and complex business decision turned on this single factor. A prudent analysis also must consider what other factors are at play, which are most effective, and at what cost. In this case, the market is the better bet.