Microsoft seemed stunned when it heard the news, at least according to a quote in The Wall Street Journal. Quite simple, Robbie. Corel paid 10 cents on the dollar when it acquired WordPerfect from Novell. Nor does it invest as much in development or technical support. Microsoft better figure it out, and fast.
Office accounts for more than half the company's revenues and profits.
Office is the cash cow that feeds Microsoft's dominance. With this move, Corel hits Microsoft where it hurts most. And it happeneth that Microsoft's fatted calf may be on its way to slaughter.