2. 2
Ethical Dilemma
The trial between Microsoft and the government consist of the negative impact of
monopolization in the marketplace. “Microsoft has allegedly made use of its monopoly power to
stifle competition, integrated its browser software into Windows' core code, and manufactured
Internet Explorer with embedded Microsoft-oriented hyperlinks. Top Microsoft executives and
their opponents with a hands-on examination of the Windows operating system, neatly presents
the root causes of the long-running and acrimonious Microsoft anti-trust trial.” (Microsoft vs. the
Justice Department, 2009). Other companies, instead of finding other computer manufacturers
was trying to buy out the rights Microsoft had with their manufacturers.
The Outcome
“After the Second Senate Judiciary Committee hearing, months of sniping, and three
delays, the U.S. Department of Justice’s antitrust case against Microsoft went to trial in October
1998. The ensuing melee-presided over by Judge Thomas Pinfield Jackson and argued by
Microsoft attorney and lead government attorney -pitted Microsoft against the U.S. government,
Netscape, Intel, Sun, Intuit, American Online, Apple and about 19 countries.” (Microsoft vs. the
Justice Department, 2009).
Possible Alternative Solutions
Alternatives would be agreements for Microsoft to slow down in their production and
innovation. Microsoft could have explained the popularity of their product and their competition
in contrast to the accused monopolization. Microsoft may have asked for mediation or an
arbitrator. If they did utilize them, it didn’t work, the continuation on to trials tells the
complexity of the case. Monopolizing may not have been a problem unless it affects the life of
other businesses. It seems Microsoft has unintentionally, negatively affected their fellow
3. 3
companies. “Managerial misconduct includes illegal, unethical, or questionable practices of
individual managers or organizations.” (Melvin P. Sean, 2011).
Conclusion
Microsoft has been the leading company for over twenty-five years. The innovations
Microsoft has with the combination of contracting with other companies and their branches,
Microsoft will prevail. Many companies may sure Microsoft and make differences in business
and technology history, but the other companies have a major competition in and out of courts.
Whether the trial is the result of controversy or misunderstanding, customers wants for
innovation and the need for convenience is always first in the market of technology, there is
always room for all companies.
4. 4
Video Reference Page Entry
Melvin P. Sean, (2011). The Legal Environment of Business: A Managerial Approach: Theory to
Practice. (1st ed.). McGraw Hill.
N/a. (2009, March 5). [Video file]. Retrieved from Microsoft vs. the Justice Department: Playing
Monopoly website:
http://digital.films.com/PortalViewVideo.aspx?xtid=8621&psid=0&sid=0&State=&IsSea
rch=N&parentSeriesID=&tScript=0
