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Microsoft Seeks Patent On Brain-Based Development

Posted by timothy on from the patent-on-defying-parody dept.

theodp writes "With its just-published patent application for Developing Software Components Based on Brain Lateralization, Microsoft provides yet another example of just how broken the patent system is. Microsoft argues that its 'invention' of having a Program Manager act as an arbitrator/communicator between a group of right-brained software users and left-brained software developers mimics 'the way that the brain communicates between its two distinct hemispheres.' One of the 'inventors' is Ray Ozzie's Technical Strategist. If granted, the patent could be used to exclude others from making, using, or selling the 'invention' for 17 years."

4 of 173 comments (clear)

  1. You say that as if it's a bad thing by JonTurner · · Score: 5, Funny

    If granted, the patent could be used to exclude others from making, using, or selling the 'invention' for 17 years
    Not sure I understand your point of view on this one. I consider any legal device that prohibits selling software like Microsoft's to be worthy of praise.
    1. Re:You say that as if it's a bad thing by AsmCoder8088 · · Score: 5, Funny

      ...Might as well patent "bi pedal motion", sue everyone in the world and get it over with.

      Except that would only affect people with two legs, not everyone.

  2. Maybe... by MrKaos · · Score: 5, Funny

    The left brain doesn't know what the right brain is doing at Microsoft.

    --
    My ism, it's full of beliefs.
  3. Wrong title by gmuslera · · Score: 5, Funny

    Microsoft should seek patent on brain-damaged development. At least with that one they will have the monopoly on prior art.