Travis Johnson

Blackboard Acts on Patent Award, Angers Customers

Thanks for the comment, though I wouldn't characterize the patent opponents as larcenous. I think at its heart this is a dispute with good arguments on both sides, and my reading of the patent doesn't give me much confidence that Blackboard will enjoy a nice revenue stream from royalties in the years ahead. I expect the prior art put forth by opponents will be very compelling when this is litigated or disputed, though I could easily be wrong.

But I also think this will help shake out smaller operators, which is good for Blackboard, and I think BBBB should remain dominant in their niche whether or not they have patent protection for their entire product portfolio. The important thing for the success of Blackboard's business is the strength of their customer relationships and the impact of their sales force -- not their patent.