Ballmer changes stance on diversity issue.

Wow. Steve Ballmer (MSoft's CEO if you're from another planet) sent out a memo this morning outlining the company's revised stance on getting involved in public policy issues.

You can read it here on Robert Scoble's blog.

Some key quotes:

"After looking at the question from all sides, I've concluded that diversity in the workplace is such an important issue for our business that it should be included in our legislative agenda."

"I'm proud of Microsoft's commitment to non-discrimination in our internal policies and benefits, but our policies can't cover the range of housing, education, financial and similar services that our people and their partners and families need. Therefore, it' appropriate for the company to support legislation that will promote and protect diversity in the workplace."

What can I say? I admire this move very, very much. It took guts to reverse their position, to honestly listen to their employees (both pro and con) and to face any criticism from conservative quarters.

Note to our current government: It shows strength and foresight to admit mistakes and correct them.

This link from those smart people over at Red Couch.

While you're there, read Chapter 4 of their communication opus on business blogging. Very, very good stuff.

PS: Sorry for the lack of posts. A surprisingly resilient stomach virus attacked me late last week.