FILE SHARING HEADED FOR SUPREME COURT

The US Supreme Court will hear arguments on March 29 in MGM v. Grokster, potentially leading to a ruling that could stifle new Internet-based services that have nothing to do with sharing music and movies. Here’s an article about the issues at stake. Although...

REGIONAL BELLS MANEUVER FOR MONOPOLY

USA Today has a story today about the efforts by the regional Bell companies to make it impossible – or at least expensive – to compete with them in building broadband networks across the country. It’s a potent combination of pressure on federal,...

EBAY ADVICE

If you’re new to eBay or you want a refresher course on how to be a smart buyer and avoid being ripped off, this guide has common sense advice. It covers how to find items, tips on bidding, how to confirm that items are as represented, and how to spot frauds....

MARKETING FIREFOX

Whether you’re selling a product, a concept, a piece of software, a politician, or a war – the most effective marketing creates the illusion that it’s not marketing at all but rather a spontaneous outpouring of affection or excitement. Case in point:...

WORDPERFECT: CAN A CORPSE BE REANIMATED?

Corel is planning a comeback for WordPerfect! Here’s an article with details. It’s interesting to read this stuff, but don’t get too worked up. This marks, if memory serves, the 47th time that WordPerfect’s various owners have rededicated...

DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT AND THE LONG TAIL

This article from Wired Magazine is essential reading. We are watching the creation of an entirely new economic model for the media and entertainment industries, with far-reaching consequences for our world. Amazon, Netflix, and online music services are discovering...