Platform vendors

As far as their operating systems are concerned, I postulate that "steamrolling" independent software vendors is one of the key differences between Apple and Microsoft.

It seems to me that Microsoft takes great pains not to add features to their operating system that are implemented by independent software vendors (Windows Security Center), whereas Apple will just add the features (Leopard Application Firewall v. Little Snitch).

You know what, I'm glad that companies choose the route that Spolsky derides. Even if Apple (or whoever) makes them obsolete, these products are still useful (and should be profitable) during the interim.

The only good advice (which the article seems to avoid saying) to be realistic. Everything has a useful lifespan after which no one wants it (or they want it at very near the cost of producing it). Be grateful that you can potentially predict that lifespan and not over-invest in that project.

I really enjoy this metaphor:

"Filling little gaps in another company’s product lineup is snatching nickels from the path of an oncoming steam roller."