Unix program's suppliers adopt joint approach

Article Abstract:

Vendors of the high-end Unix operating system agree to adopt a set of specifications that assures that applications written for any version of Unix will look the same if they are run on another version of Unix. The threat to Unix from Microsoft's new Windows NT operating system forced IBM, HP, Sun Microsystems Inc, Santa Cruz Operation Inc and Novell Inc to settle their differences. The new alliance is seen as a major blow to Next Inc, which has been trying to win support for its own operating system from Novell, Sun and others. Analysts express admiration the alliance's ambitions, but wonder if the companies will actually be able to make good on their promises. Significantly absent from the new alliance is DEC, which, while not abandoning Unix, is banking on the success of Windows NT.

Standards, Product development, Standard, Standardization, Contracts, Unix-like operating systems, UNIX, Competition, User interfaces (Computers), Cooperative Agreements, User interface

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Software industry loses start-up zest as big firms increase their dominance

Article Abstract:

The computer software industry is changing from an entrepreneur-driven business to one dominated by a few large companies. The time is past when an individual programmer with an innovative idea can easily start a successful new company. Today's software industry consists essentially of Microsoft Inc and ten other major firms. Small companies scramble, seeking niches where they can survive, or try to sell out to larger companies. According to the trade publication SoftLetter, the 12 largest software companies now control 77 percent of the industry's revenue, up from two-thirds in 1985. Microsoft alone recorded revenue of $5.7 billion in 1990. Some industry observers believe the trend toward dominance and consolidation will stifle innovation.

Analysis, Statistics, Growth (Physiology), Growth, Entrepreneur, Trends, Industry Analysis, Outlook, Companies, Computer Software Industry, Merger, Softletter (Periodical)

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