It would seem to me the basic reason for the merger is both compnaies are not profitable and the merger may improve their financial situation. The issues of a monopoly and potentailly higher prices for their software and maintenance is another isssue. Steve Steve Heller, USDA, ARS, Plant Genome Program Bldg. 005, Room 337 Beltsville, MD 20705-2350 E-Mail: srheller %-% at %-% nalusda.gov Phone: 301-504-6055 FAX: 301-504-6231