There have almost always been people amongst developers that have considered Microsoft to be secret about their development. (Like the preMicrosoft time, IBM where to developers)

I think that Steve have realized that openness is the best proven practice to stick with.
To belong to a group fulfills a very basic human need.
That is vital for any successful longtime biz.

All major companies have enthusiasm and innovation drive in the beginning, and as the company gets bigger the communications get more and more restricted. Historically that will always lead to a downturn and in the end… The End.

When I look at a successful company I almost always see a CEO that recognize the end customer, and understand that communication, both internally and externally should be as open as possible.

When the leaders of a company stop communicate because of focusing on the top tier customers, the company won’t hear the day to day facts presented from the lower tier customers. And when that happens the days are numbered for that company.

It seams that Steve have understand that and acknowledges both his own developers and the external community developers.

The way Microsoft does this is historically unique.
Historically it was impossible to communicate with lower tiers customers as the company grew.
Now Microsoft uses blogging, Web seminars, Video presentation, FAQ, Third party vendors and Cannel9 etc.

I really believe that Microsoft can continue to be THE major Software Company for a very long time to come.
I’m usually not that pro Microsoft but I can’t help acknowledge their passion and striving in the right directions.
Go Steve!!

Regards
TheSWELinker