Whose ideas?

The ongoing palaver over chinese computer guru Kai Fu Lee could do with discussing in detail (1). Bill Gates of Microsoft is reluctant to see Lee move to Google's chinese operation and work in competition using ideas and information gained whilst at microsoft.

Whether Gates is right or even fully voicing his concerns is open to interpretation. Regardless, taken at face value, copyright or intellectual property operates both ways and cannot be truly regulated or monopolised. I assume Bill Gates didn't hand rear Kai Fu Lee and teach him every thing he knows. Doubtless that Lee will have picked up or developed many an idea whilst at microsoft. Yet, and particularly in Lee's case, it seems just as likely that as much if not more was contributed.

Likewise, are we to assume that Gates designed or developed every aspect of microsoft innovation or did he manage to hoover up as much from others? Not to doubt Mr. Gates intellectual or technical prowess by any means. But it does seem to be the case that the expertise in question resides with the host.

Lee's work for google may serve to refresh or refine his capabilities due to the different environment. A change is as good as a rest, so it's said.


(1) http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/businesstechnology/2002426557_kaifu08.html

Ps. I am deeply indebted to Mr Gates and his team for the Windows (Tm.) 'concept' as it aids a scattered mind. Buy that man a drink.