-----Original Message----- From: ian [mailto:ian.lynch2@ntlworld.com] Sent: 12 March 2004 16:29 To: adrian.wells Cc: suse-linux-uk-schools@suse.com Subject: Re: [suse-linux-uk-schools] Upgrade Question
I can't really see why DELL should worry too much about upsetting MS. If MS actually tried to put pressure on them it would be illegal and they just need to squeal to the OFT. I think its more likely just a mindset. If we keep tapping away it will eventually shatter.
The OFT is investigating pricing structures in schools because we have to include all machines in the count, MS based or not. I guess MS will be guilty. MS have contracts with almost all suppliers. That implies that windows will be on the hard drive whether you want it or not. When the OFT started their investigation and asked for responses I suggested they needed to look at that as well. Their reply was (I paraphrase) that yes they knew about that but wanted to knock off one problem at a time. So yes Dell will worry because - if I understand correctly - should they shift empty boxes they could lose their discount pricing on Windows or have their contract cancelled completely. It's an equitable life. -- ******************************************************************************** All mail sent and received may be examined to prevent transmission of unacceptable material. Wellington College does not accept responsibility for email contents. Problems to postmaster@wellington-college.berks.sch.uk. Website: http://www.wellington-college.berks.sch.uk ********************************************************************************