May 8, 2003

On the surface, you could not ask for anything sillier. Imagine, big 
Intel going after Yoga Inside for trademark dilution. But trademark 
lawyers say trademark protection is no silly matter. In the past weeks, 
we've been examining a story where the fact that a browser is not a 
database has not stopped Mozilla and Firebird from sharing a fur-flying storm 
of protest and word-slinging over Mozilla's choice of the word Firebird 
to describe its browser project. This week, Open looks at the 
controversy outside in. First, MySQL's CEO, Marten Mickos, who safeguarded 
MySQL's name reputation and recognition in the courts, tells why trademark 
protection is a very big deal. Then Open interviews the dispute's 
mediator and Firebird's Ann Harrison. 

Trademarks are not the only hot button sending fur flying. Jack Fegreus 
examines the miracle of infinite productivity that lies under the 
surface of the SEC's posting of Microsoft's quarterly results. But those 
numbers are nothing like the Meta Group's dismal numbers in a forecast for 
corporate adoption of Linux on the desktop and the costs to do it. 

On the wireless front, Open unveils a strategy story of more ambience 
than adversity. We recount how Rocksteady Networks attracted IBM's 
attention with a key "Linux gene," which evolved into a wireless network 
deal for truck stops coming on an Interstate highway near you.  

Just click http://www.open-mag.com/3102342700.htm to go straight to the 
subscriber home page and story links. And remember to send a copy to 
your friends mired in proprietary systems.

Regards,

The editors of Open magazine