Interoperability - Novell Losing the Word

Novell has been focused with their messaging lately. They have told me on numerous occasions that they want to own the word "Interoperability".

Okay, I can understand wanting to own that word. It makes me wonder if anyone is hearing Novell talk about Interoperability.

I know one company is - Microsoft.

This week in eWeek (www.eweek.com) they had a story on the main page.

Microsoft Pushes Interoperability

It was in the Linux and Open Source Section. Looks like Novell is getting through to someone and that someone has decided they want that word for themselves.

At this point Novell is either going to have to fight for the ownership of the word or find a new word.

First would be to get themselves listed in the top ten on Google ranking for the word Interoperability. That would certainly help. Right now Microsoft is listed as #3 and #4 by Google for the word Interoperability.

My recommendation is that they pick a new word that Microsoft can't own or doesn't own.

First choice - Business-Driven Linux
Second choice Teaming

Novell GroupWise wants to own the word collaboration as well.

Novell can win this battle and own a word but it will take some focused effort. Right now they have a big company, Microsoft that wants to take it away from them.

BTW, GWAVACon, The Novell Teaming and GroupWise conference is just around the corner. www.gwavacon.com to register and get the early bird special. It is in Las Vegas this year, January 2009.