IBM trumpets sales milestone for OS/2 as skeptical Microsoft blows own horn

Article Abstract:

IBM reports that it has sold over one million copies of its OS/2 operating system software. The company's announcement is important because many software publishers wait until one million copies of an operating systems have been sold before they begin to develop software package for that specific platform. IBM's main competition comes from Microsoft Corp and its Windows graphical user interface. Microsoft belittled the OS/2 sales announcement and added that over three million copies of the latest version of Windows were sold in six weeks. Microsoft also seemed to question the one million sales mark and noted that few applications for the OS/2 platform are selling. IBM admitted that five percent of the packages were given away and twenty-five percent were issues as upgrades to previous versions. IBM also bundled the software with some of its microcomputers, which skews the figures somewhat.

Computer software industry, Software industry, Operating systems (Software), Operating systems, IBM, Statistics, Sales, Operating System, Outlook, OS/2 (Operating system)

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IBM's pick is talented but some see flaws in his record at RJR

Article Abstract:

The record of Louis V. Gerstner Jr, reportedly the top choice to replace IBM Chmn and CEO John Akers, indicates that he can be a good leader in prosperous times, but has not proven himself in the sort of harsh adversity IBM is currently weathering. The company reported a net loss of nearly $5 billion in 1992. Gerstner is know for his iron will, extraordinarily strong drive and management savvy. But IBM customers are concerned that Gerstner's lack of technology experience will delay his efforts to turn IBM around. Gerstner will also have to revivify a stodgy corporate culture, boost employee morale and build stock value by winnowing the losers from IBM's sprawling, overlapping businesses. Gerstner will probably succeed at changing IBM's corporate culture, but the prospects are questionable for his success at the other tasks.

Management, Officials and employees, Computer industry, Chief executive officers, Gerstner, Louis V., Jr., Leadership, Management Style

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