A Fuller View

This post on the FFWD Blog gives a nice view of the future of Fast Search & Transfer under Microsoft ownership. What I found most interesting is from the FFWD blog post was the continued support of Linux based Fast customers (this is good news for customers with significant investment in both Fast & Linux):

The primary focus of the acquisition is toward bolstering SharePoint’s search capability. While the FAST team will be aligned to SharePoint development, the company will exist as a wholly-owned subsidiary. FAST will continue to service its existing markets, including sales to LINIX shops.

Also, apparently MSFT bought 10.1% of the shares in Fast on the open market:

Two of Fast’s largest owners, Orkla ASA and Hermes Focus Asset Management Europe Ltd., which make up 37% of the outstanding shares, have accepted Microsoft’s bid. Microsoft bought shares of Fast yesterday [=8 Jan 2008] and now holds a 10.1% share of the company. The deal is subject to regulatory approval. Executives at the two companies said they couldn’t discuss details of their plans until that time. The deal, which requires a 90% acceptance rate from shareholders, is expected be completed in the second quarter.

You can see my initial comments on the MSFT FAST deal HERE.

btw - Fast’s big industry conference - which is really a great love fest for Fast customers - is definitely worth attending if it makes sense for your business. Details here on the FFWD site. I am sure there will be a lot of MSFT activity at this event.