IBM VP: Office OpenXML a dead end, Microsoft will back ODF (ars technica)

The part of Microsoft that is responsible for Office is one with a very bad track in terms of
collaboration. One can have an open mind only so much before becoming a fool, so I think
Microsoft has to:
- demonstrate that are able to be just a part of the whole, by not trying to lead or direct.
- commit themselves to recognizing when they screw it up, and fix.
- avoid previous practices (namely: embrace and extend).
- avoid patenting any technique related to ODF or document formats, and donate current
patents.

I think it's of particular interest for the community to develop ways to test implementations
for compliance with the standard, as a way to strengthen interoperability between
implementations. This shouldn't free them from sticking with "the spirit" of the standard, and
not just the letter.