Microsoft quietly puts together computer research laboratory
Article Abstract:
Microsoft is building the Microsoft Research Laboratory by recruiting pioneers in the computer field, in a move that earns mixed reviews from industry observers. Microsoft's employees include Butler Lampson, who helped create the first PC and Ethernet; C. Gordon Bell, who pioneered the first working minicomputer; and Jim Gray, who helped develop the modern computer database. Observers warn that the computer industry grows through new ideas, and that Microsoft may be trapping itself in the past. The company responds that it recruits new talent aggressively, but that it is seeking those who know how to make good ideas into products. It also claims an unusually tight relationship between the lab and product development. Some observers hope that the lab means that Microsoft, which has typically grown by fine-tuning and marketing technology from other sources, will begin to contribute its own innovations to the industry.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1995
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Microsoft shifts focus of software; revamps key units in bow to Internet
Article Abstract:
Microsoft announces a new Interactive Media div and restructures its customer-oriented divisions in a move designed to capitalize on the rapidly increasing popularity of the Internet. The Business Systems, Personal Systems, Developer and Consumer Systems divisions will become the Internet Platform and Tools div, the Desktop and Business Systems div and the Consumer Platforms div. Senior VP Brad Silverberg will head the Internet div, which will create client-oriented browsers and application development programs as well as server-oriented products. Senior VP Jim Allchin will lead his Desktop div in the support and maintenance of Windows 95 and Windows NT, while the Consumer div under senior VP Craig Mundie will make non-computer electronic devices and software for interactive television projects hosted by public networks.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1996
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Microsoft plans 300% increase in spending for basic research in 1997
Article Abstract:
Microsoft plans to increase its annual research budget of $1.4 billion annually by 300% in 1997. Microsoft claims that its expanded annual investment is due in part to decreasing corporate research budgets and to the short sighted shift in Government financing towards projects earning immediate profits. Microsoft plans to increase its base of 170 scientists to between 450 and 500. Microsoft maintains its commitment to broadening its research focus to incorporate work that does not offer immediate paybacks. Although this decision varies from the national trend, Microsoft believes that such risks make good business sense. Nathan Myhrvold, Microsoft's chief technology officer, insists that the additional research spending will benefit Microsoft despite the possible payoffs to other companies in the process.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1996
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