But there’s also huge potential gain for OSS here, even if they don’t intend it. Microsoft has strong reach into corporate IT, much of it still reluctant to adopt OSS. For one, it will be harder for Microsoft to spread FUD on the Open Source model when they support an initiative like this.

Often it’s developers who push OSS from bottom up - being able to do it incrementally, installing OSS products that interoperate with MS ones, will make it significantly easier for them. Later on, once OSS benefits are proven, the path is clear for more further, deeper changes. Embrace, extend and extinguish works both ways.

Supporting them is a tricky thing - while there is a good chance that some part of Microsoft is engaging with you in a genuine fashion, this will still be just a small part of a much larger organization with top-down strategic decision making.

Microsoft’s current Open Source activities represent a way for them to confuse individuals, organizations and legislators about their true intentions and activities. They will spend your reputation and then discard you.

I know that Microsoft would provide a prestigious and well-paying gig, but it would be unfortunate to see your first big client be a company that represents the blue pill of proprietary business status quo.

I would very much appreciate if you formulated your reasoning.

Thanks!
Sandro

[Updated 2008-02-14, 20:15] Sandro also posted on the subject. Microsoftâ??s partners team through its NXT initiative launched a campaign focused on open source ISVs in 2007 in conjunction with the Open Source Business Conference.  The campaign is des…