Comments on: Commercial software and social innovation

By: Troy Stein

Troy Stein — Sun, 10 Jun 2007 13:41:30 +0000

“I’d love to hear an SIConversations show that explores the business opportunity for commercial software as an enabler of social innovation.”

While not as altruistic as alternative fuel sources and eradicating AIDS, I wonder if the public opening of iTunes U couldn’t plant the seeds of innovation: shared awareness and knowledge.

By: Jeffrey Harris

Jeffrey Harris — Thu, 07 Jun 2007 02:16:52 +0000

“I looked at Microsoft and Gates, and thought, this man has changed AIDS like nobody else has on the planet. He has brought more money than has ever been brought to the issue.”

It seems like a lot of people make statements like that. As much as I admire the Gates Foundation’s work, and Bill Gates generosity, I think people too easily lose track of the financial scope of individuals, corporations, and governments, even if they’re really really rich individuals. While Bill Gates has undoubtedly brought more philanthropic money than any individual or corporation to focus on health issues, it doesn’t hold a candle to state funded aid and research. Governments are really, really big.

Fortunately, my understanding is that the Gates Foundation focuses on using its grants to leverage the resources of much bigger actors out there, not replace them, which seems like an excellent approach.

Anyway, sorry, I know that’s off-topic, and I know Jon was quoting someone else, not agreeing with them ;)

By: Scott Reynen

Scott Reynen — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 22:16:33 +0000

I am unable to locate the compelling episode via your "compelling episode" link. I did, however, find it here.

By: Ed

Ed — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:43:59 +0000

“But actually if you really wanted to change AIDS or poverty in the world, what you would do is give away Microsoft free as an open platform for people to share information.”

Of course Mr Francis ignores the rather obvious problem that Gates doesn’t OWN microsoft; even though he is a major shareholder, they are not his assets to give away free.

This sort of fuzzy logic detracts from Nic’s obviously well intentioned message…

By: Kin Lane

Kin Lane — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 17:39:14 +0000

Maybe Frances is just not elaborating enough on his comment. It would make sense for Microsoft to extend FREE or LIGHT versions of software as part of their social efforts that would accomplish some of these goals and ultimately create new user adoption of the Windows platform.

I would hope if pressed more Frances would elaborate…