If there’s anything sadder in tech circles than a pathetic Windows fan still trying to convince himself that Windows 8.x has been anything except a total failure, it would have to be someone who believes that Steve Ballmer did anything during his tenure as Microsoft’s CEO other than set the company up to follow in the footsteps of failed U.S. carmakers.
Scot Finnie, Computerworld‘s editor in chief, recently spelled out Ballmer’s shortcomings. Bottom line: Microsoft lost its vision. Instead of being a leader, it’s been playing catch-up in mobile, tablets and search while losing its way on the desktop with its user-hostile Metro interface.
You don’t have to believe us. Look at the numbers. Microsoft’s board cut Ballmer’s bonus because of an 18% decline in Windows Division operating income and a $900 million inventory charge related to Surface RT.