You see, Microsoft business units are locked in their own competition for market share and internal rates of return. They each other. So unleashing half a dozen new enterprises – each with the market capitalization of Sears – might be even worse than what we have now” (1).Following the Utilitarianism theory again, forcing Microsoft to abandon predatory business practices would be beneficial to all. Microsoft should establish a fair and consistent pricing model for all products. This model should insure all OEM’s get the same price and terms. Upgrades should cost less than the original product. Product price increases should be governed by investment and inflation. Establish a fair and consistent product license agreement that follows established industry norms.Another possibility to bring to greatest good to the greatest number of people would be for Microsoft to establish clear product maintenance and support rules. All products would have a predetermined warranty period of 18 months to three years. Microsoft would fix all product defects and provide those fixes free of charge during the warranty period. Consumer protection provisions would be improved to provide reasonable product support assistance.Part III:If Microsoft wins, there will be little impact on Microsoft, but the Justice Department may be more timid about filing antitrust cases involving computer technology. If the DOJ and states win some or all of their points, possible sanctions range from forcing Microsoft to distribute Netscape with Windows, to allowing companies other than Microsoft to sell Windows, to a breakup of the company.Whether or not Microsoft has engaged in anti-competitive behavior in the past, this trial will go a long way toward making Microsoft act differently in the future. To protect itself, the company is giving up one of its most powerful weapons. Intimidation.If Microsoft loses, it could mean a reinterpretation of the tr...
