Excerpts from June 2003 Ballmer Memo

On Longhorn:

“Longhorn is our big bet on galvanizing the next big breakthrough-even bigger, perhaps than the first generation Windows release. In addition to the Longhorn client, there will be a Longhorn version of Office, Longhorn server enhancements, Longhorn development tools, and a Longhorn version of MSN. I think about it as a new applications platform, enabling applications and Web sites that are easier to write, integrate better, manage information more effectively, and present information in a richer, more visually compelling manner, along with new end-user functionality and services in collaboration, media, and communication.”

On changing IT priorities:

“As I talk with business customers, there is less passion and enthusiasm for technology, and greater focus on doing more for less. Customers spent considerably on Y2K upgrades, which were seen as largely remedial, and they have not yet seen a tangible return on dot.com investments.”

On the threat from non-commercial software: