Ballmer: Microsoft has broaden its reach
SeattleTimes | at | by Mike
Ballmer found a way to capitalize on the soul searching. He used it as an opportunity to streamline management, update company culture, refresh Microsoft's reputation and hone its strategy. "It's like we went through this valley of death," said Jim Allchin, the executive heading the Windows division. "Internally we said, 'Look, we can't do anything about this trial, you know, it is what it is. But what we can do is try to learn from it and we can try to build great products and just drive ahead.' "
Ballmer and Microsoft emerged leaner, wiser and more mature, with a new realization of their leadership potential. While Gates is charged up about new technologies in the coming decade, Ballmer seems energized by his mission to navigate today's choppy market while building a foundation to keep Microsoft growing another 50 years.