Microsoft says Linux, other programs violate patents

The Redmond spin machine is at it again, claiming that open source software such as Linux may infringe upon patents held by the company. I would consider this claim to be possible, but unlikely. Of course only time will tell, but I suspect that this is merely the latest attempt at scaring executives away from using open source products. To some extent I think this tactic is having an effect. I have talked with several CIOs and senior IT managers that have expressed concerns with using open source in the enterprise. However, I think most competent managers evaluate a software product on it’s merits more than marketing hype and corporate FUD. (the competency part, well, that’s a whole other story…)