IT IS worrying that a mighty big company like Intel outsourced important decision-making processes to a 'ski resort' company (revenue about 5,000 times smaller than Intel's) whose employees lack the experience that Intel's very own staff possesses. The level of 'research' that comes from Harbor 'Research' is something like I've never come across before; it's more like marketing and advocacy (of Microsoft) rather than something which resembles real research. Is Intel trying to vandalise itself? Are some people in positions of power as loyal to Intel as Mr. Elop was to Nokia?

"That should lead to further questioning of the real motivations of some managers at Intel."To quote Microsoft itself [PDF]: ""Working behind the scenes to orchestrate "independent" praise of our technology, and damnation of the enemy's, is a key evangelism function during the Slog. "Independent" analyst's report should be issued, praising your technology and damning the competitors (or ignoring them). "Independent" consultants should write columns and articles, give conference presentations and moderate stacked panels, all on our behalf (and setting them up as experts in the new technology, available for just $200/hour). "Independent" academic sources should be cultivated and quoted (and research money granted). "Independent" courseware providers should start profiting from their early involvement in our technology. Every possible source of leverage should be sought and turned to our advantage."

We discussed in previous parts (see index in the relevant wiki page), especially the past pair, the publicly-visible connections between Microsoft and Harbor 'Research', including a firm that Harbor 'Research' cites in this report. A top Microsoft partner. Why would Intel wish to leave its destiny and future direction in the hands of such people? That should lead to further questioning of the real motivations of some managers at Intel. Are there kickbacks? Like bonuses from Microsoft (in case of selloff)? That's akin to bribery, loosely attached to notorious cult tactics...

The video above, which is longer than usual (not scripted, one take), goes through the appendix of the report. It's a final report, it was suppressed (limited distribution to avoid criticism/scrutiny), and judging by how crude/shallow it is no wonder they don't want this thing 'out there'...

In the next part we'll continue our journey through this farcical report. ⬆