It seems that with Bill Gates stepping down from day-to-day operations and Microsoft evangelist Robert Scoble moving on completely, it does certainly feel like the beginning of the end. Think I am wrong? Try this: Go to YouTube.com, then do a search for "Windows Vista: First of a Kind Features." Watch this video and then explain to me where Microsoft did any sort of innovation whatsoever. Seriously, this is Bill Gates' voice with a demo of the Mac OS being shown in parody. It's pretty sad...

One of the key issues that Microsoft faces is their continued settlement of "it's good enough" attitude. One example of this is their decision in offering a group of Vista versions to choose from. Two is plenty, guys. If they simply have to offer more than this, then something is seriously wrong on their end as far as I am concerned.

Then we have the total lack of support for Podcasting for Windows Media 11. Oh sure, you can buy songs from MTV's page from within the player and then sync it with non-iPod MP3 players. However, the lack of Podcasting support renders the syncing borderline useless in my opinion.

Folks, the list goes on and on. And considering the only link to the Windows community was coming from Robert Scoble's efforts, I think Microsoft could be headed down a very dangerous path. As things stand now, I am beginning to see indications that they are considering taking Windows Live even further. This would be a huge mistake! First of all, they need to gain a better handling on understanding what people actually want. Then perhaps they can begin to travel down that path...

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