MS vets to compete with .NET

A group of defectors from Microsoft's executive ranks has formed a company dedicated to providing software applications via the Web. Called OpenDesign, the start-up includes former Microsoft luminaries such as ex-chief software architect Edward Jung and ex-chief technology officer Nathan Myrhvold. Bill Gates has publicly bet the future of his company on Microsoft.Net, his nomenclature for Internet delivery of program functionality to users while leaving the programs on Web servers. OpenDesign executives say they have told Bill Gates about their plans.

For more information, read zdnn.com.