Blunder Quote by Robert X. Cringely
““In 1979, for example, Microsoft gave Boeing Commercial Airplane Co. the right to buy any Microsoft product for $50 per copy, until the end of time. Today most Microsoft applications sell in the $300 to $500 range, ten years from now they may cost thousands each.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Unknown source
Highlights how software pricing can dramatically increase over decades, affecting long‑term cost expectations.
In simple terms: Software gets pricier over time.
Key Takeaway
Consider future costs when adopting tech.
Themes
technology economics
pricing
long‑term planning
Mood
analytical
cautious
Type
informative
critical
When to use this quote
- budgeting for IT
- software procurement
- strategic planning
Key Concepts
Inflation
software licensing models
Questions to Reflect On
- Will you evaluate total cost of ownership?
- How do you mitigate future price hikes?
A Different Perspective
Assumes all software follows this pattern, which isn’t universal.
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