RE: [xml-dev] Microsoft Patents Serializing Objects To XML And Se nding Them Over A Network

Yes.  Thoroughly debated here already.

The way forward is to recognize this is a global problem 
and to create a system that is irrefutable, simple, and cheap. 
It's a good job for the SemWeb:  enabling patent examination. 
If it is to be the top priority of the W3C, do something 
really useful with it.

If you want to get the lawyers out of a legal process, starve them 
out.  Fires won't do it because they breathe and exhale smoke as a 
byproduct of their roles.

len

From: 'Alan Gutierrez' [mailto:]

    These are good points Len, but it doesn't address the fact that
    litigation is expensive, and you need to pay to have your day in
    court. You might have a solid case, but with no funding, you'll
    not be able to argue it.

    Even the most frivolous patents are a liability, if the preditor
    knows your the size of your purse.

> Some are overfocused on the USPTO because it makes them  
> feel good and because you believe it unassailable so 
> we/they/you are relieved of action.  The best course is one 
> that protects both innovation and community globally by 
> formalizing the processes and reducing the costs.

    Amen.