Print
Ray Ozzie has decided to hang up his hat as Microsoft's Chief Software Architect, Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer announced in an open letter on Monday.
"Ray and I are announcing today Ray's intention to step down from his role as chief software architect. He will remain with the company as he transitions the teams and ongoing strategic projects within his organization -- bringing the great innovations and great innovators he's assembled into the groups driving our business... While Ray will be onboard for a while, I'd like to thank him today for his contributions to Microsoft, both as a leader and as a long-time Microsoft ISV," Ballmer said.
While Ballmer's open letter poured on the praise for the soon departed CSA, there are some that may be happy to see him go. Ozzie's been known to ruffle a few feathers during his tenure, which may have played a part in his decision to step down (the letter doesn't say).
Ozzie's departure also brings up the question of whether or not Microsoft really needs a chief software architect.
"I think the key thing to keep in mind is that Ray Ozzie, while a great mind, isn't Bill... I think that the fact Ballmer didn't replace him says a lot, almost an admission that Bill is irreplaceable," said Wes Miller, an analyst at krikland-based Directions on Microsoft."
And the Ozzman leaveth.
Comments are closed on this article
