I think you guys may be trying to over-complicate this whole issue. I`ve said it before, and I`ll say it again.... I`d bet that immediately after the AMS, EDIG got a flurry of calls complaining about the FACT that, straining to understand Atul`s AMS pitch, shareholders couldn`t understand WTF he was saying. That simple.

Assuming EDIG ``heard`` these complaints, and I`d bet there were a LOT of them from major shareholders, I`d think that all of EDIG, including Atul, had to face the fact that something had to be done in response. Heck, even FF was ah, ah, a more effective communicator!

So the plan was made.... Atul was probably offered a downgrade to Senior VP-Engineering, but took stock of his situation and decided to leverage his current status toward a dream job or dreamed about personal goal/endeavor. He had options....and strong credentials in place at least until the replacement was to come on board. And his vested interest (and loyalty to co-worker friends) was ``protected`` by his enabling a smooth transition.

EDIG management (probably including Atul, who still has a vested interest in EDIG`s success) initiated their search for a replacement (possibly with candidates, like Will, already in mind). That gave a couple-few months to make a selection.

Does Will bring more than a new face (and, more importantly, voice) to the company, like maybe some business prospects? Maybe, or probably, or maybe not. Ability? His credentials suggest he is capable.

I think it`s that simple. No nastiness, no going behind anyone`s back, just a blatant reality check and logical response.

But I KNOW nuttin`!

SGE