Moore Refutes 360 Launch Rumours

Via Gamasutra, commentary from Peter Moore in the Seattle-PI about the furiously swirling Xbox 360 shortage rumours. From the article: "Is Microsoft purposefully holding back on shipments, trying to create an artificial appearance of extraordinary demand? Xbox executive Peter Moore says no -- pointing instead to the unprecedented scope of the launch. Microsoft, seeking to solidify its place in the living room and challenge Sony's dominant PlayStation franchise, is breaking from tradition by releasing its new machine in North America, Europe and Japan in rapid succession, over a span of three weeks."

Comments

So they're just incompetent?

[nevergleam]

Peter Moore admits it. The shortage is not a result of a malicious (but effective) marketing strategy by Microsoft. Xbox 360s are in shortage because the company can't get their act enough together to fill their pre-orders.

inventory

[Red Flayer]

The question (FTFA): "Is Microsoft purposefully holding back on shipments, trying to create an artificial appearance of extraordinary demand?"

The answer: No.

The other question: "Is Microsoft purposefully holding back on production, trying to create an artificial appearance of extraordinary demand?"

The answer: Maybe.

There's no way MS would hold on to extra inventory, it's too traceable, and also not a good idea financially. Instead, claim production insufficiencies -- you still getting reduced supply at release, without tying up cash in inventory, while having a believable justification.