Summary: Microsoft is unable to dismiss further cuts

THE LATEST suggestion that more layoffs are heading Microsoft's way is backed by what an analyst refers to as "multiple sources". We wrote about this twice already. GNU/Linux is among the main causes, others being Google and similar disruptive forces in IT. It turns out that a Microsoft spokesman has responded to the suggestion that more layoffs will be announced shortly. Here is the relevant portion from the Seattle P-I:

Microsoft is scheduled to release its third quarter earnings on Thursday. The last set of layoffs were announced at the same time as its second quarter earnings.

Microsoft spokesman Lou Gellos responded Monday, "As we said in January, we will continue to assess the market and economic situation over the next 18 months and make adjustments as needed. Beyond that, we have no other details to share."

This was said in response to: "Over the last week, we have heard from multiple sources that Microsoft may engage in additional restructuring activities in the near-to-mid term [...] While our checks seem to unanimously imply further headcount cuts, there is uncertainty around whether such cuts will be a moderate revision to plans announced in January or is a sizable addition to prior headcount reduction plans."

Microsoft will leave its report on the counter this evening, so executives may not get around to delivering answers before Friday. The report, however, will reveal what Microsoft tells shareholders about GNU/Linux. ⬆