I'm an IBMer too & proud. IBM's strategy to "open-based" software is the way to go. Nonetheless, one can only thank the GATE's, JOB's and the likes for opening the computer age to us. Global development in all fields has to owe them something. But where they have missed the turning point is when they too should have opened their minds and focus on what end-users really need. Cheap and reliable and no "fancy stuff" tools. Windows OS's have never been cheap off-the-shelf, even the antique WIN 3.11 was expensive. In most countries, unless you build the PC yourself, you can't even buy a PC anywhere without a preinstalled version of Windows! Integrated gizmos (MediaPlayer, Explorer etc) only build up for the cost. What a customer should see on the price tag is a broken down cost of each software and chose which one he wants (or needs). Also because Microsoft packs it all in one load competitors have a hard time trying to enter that market. Even Microsoft makes it nearly mandatory to upgrade it's software when you move to a newer OS, those who run on XP PRO and still have OFFICE 97 or 2K back me up on this. Try even to export your backup.pst from OUTLOOK 2003 and import to OUTLOOK 2000, it's impossible. LOTUS NOTES can, from old version to new and the other way round if needed. Take that!