I.B.M. tries to outmaneuver Microsoft by supporting Java
Article Abstract:
IBM is supporting the Java programming language in an attempt to outposition Microsoft in the Internet sector. IBM has licensed Java from its inventor, rival Sun Microsystems, with hopes of linking an array of Internet users. One of IBM's goals is to raise its profile among Internet users, who tend to be male programmers in their 20s. IBM has deployed 2,400 software developers worldwide to strengthen Java; sponsored a Java World Tour with Sun, Netscape and Oracle; and contributed to a $100 million venture capital fund to bankroll start-up companies that use Java. A problem facing IBM is the perception that it cannot impact the software market. IBM's Java strategy consists of boosting hardware sales and focusing its customer services on network computing, plus supplying a significant amount Java-based software. Java could threaten the Windows domination by Microsoft, which has siphoned off customers from IBM during the period from 1987 to 1997.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1997
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For I.B.M. faithful, questions about Windows 95
Article Abstract:
Users of IBM's OS/2 operating system are concerned that they will be forgotten when Microsoft releases its forthcoming Windows 95 operating system. Some analysts are exacerbating these fears by predicting that once Windows 95 has been released, IBM will only support the current version of OS/2 and will stop developing new versions. IBM is trying to strengthen the image of its operating system by touting sales figures that show strong demand for OS/2. The company says that 2.5 million copies of the operating system have been purchased since Nov 1994 and that many developers are committed to developing applications for the software. IBM's 2nd qtr financial results actually showed a slight decline in sales of the operating system, although company officials say this is normal when a new product such as Windows 95 is near release.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1995
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Information by the gallon: as desktop video approaches, is the office ready?
Article Abstract:
Companies are starting to invest in desktop video despite the untested and expensive nature of the developing technology. One of the industries that is considering the adoption of desktop video is the securities industry, which is starting to use the technology to provide traders with more up-to-date information. Some managers of trading companies worry that desktop video will only be an expensive distraction and are concerned that the massive investment will not create enough benefits to be worthwhile. The cost of desktop video can amount to hundreds of dollars a month per system. Other managers say that because of the nature of the securities industry, where millions of dollars count on constantly changing numbers, desktop video will provide benefits just by offering greater access to information.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1995
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