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Ballmer must go for Microsoft to stay relevant

When big companies struggle there’s a temptation to think a restructure will fix things. If nothing else it makes it look as if managers are in control.

Microsoft’s pending restructure is unlikely to change much. The ailing software company can’t be fixed until CEO Steve Ballmer leaves.

The problem isn’t whether Ballmer can repair things. He may or may not. That’s irrelevant. So is the good — or bad — work he has done in the past. None of that matters any more.

Perception and reality

Perception is everything. People outside of Microsoft see Ballmer as the problem not the answer. He appears to be dangerously out of touch with where the technology sector is heading.

Last year the company went through huge changes. A new version of the company's Windows operating system, the company's flagship Microsoft Office application had an overhaul, there was a great smartphone version of the Windows operating system and Microsoft entered into the device business.

Despite all the positives, Microsoft still looks like a has been. It was once the world's largest business by market capitalisation. Today it looks like it is in danger of being irrelevant.

The best way to change that would be to put a new face at the top of the company and let some fresh air sweep through the corridors.

Microsoft Restructuring Nears, As Execs Fret Over Their Fate – Kara Swisher – News – AllThingsD.