Strange but true, usually the best of enemies it would seem that Microsoft and the Linux Foundation are in full agreement over something for a change. What is more, they are working together in order to find a solution as well.
According to Horacio Gutierrez, the Microsoft Corporate Vice President and Deputy General Counsel, the two are ganging up to voice concern regarding the 'Principles of the Law of Software Contracts' that has been drafted by the American Law Institute. Microsoft and the Linux Foundation have sent a joint letter to the ALI which asks for more time for interested parties to comment.
Gutierrez says "While the Principles reflect a lot of hard work and thought by the ALI, Microsoft and the Linux Foundation believe that certain provisions do not reflect existing law and could disrupt the well-functioning software market for businesses and consumers, as well as create uncertainty for software developers."
On the fact that Microsoft and the Linux Foundation are working together on this one, Gutierrez insists it is not remarkable given that a wide range of issues impact upon all software developers. "Our industry is diverse and sometimes contentious, but if nothing else unites us it is that we all believe in the power of software" Gutierrez says, concluding "I hope that this represents just one of many opportunities to collaborate with the Linux Foundation and others going forward. We have a lot more we can do together."
Meanwhile, Linux Foundation Executive Director, Jim Zemlin, says "Today we are finding common ground with Microsoft and we look forward to potential collaboration in the future as well as to competing in the market and keeping each other honest."
Recently I asked Has Microsoft gone mental? and in the light of this announcement perhaps the answer is actually no.
