I give Bill Gates an A for vision because, as a business person and a strategist, he's brilliant. His flaw is that his view is not informed by a humanistic or compassionate vision of how to make computers work for people.

The quote "I give Bill Gates an A for vision because, as a business person and a strategist, he's brilliant. His flaw is that his view is not informed by a humanistic or compassionate vision of how to make computers work for people" by Mitch Kapor reflects a critical yet appreciative perspective on Bill Gates's work. Kapor, a technology entrepreneur and founder of Lotus Development Corporation, recognizes Gates's exceptional ability as a businessman and strategist but critiques him for lacking a humanistic approach in his vision for technology. Kapor is suggesting that while Gates is a visionary in terms of business success and innovation, his view of computers and technology could benefit from a deeper consideration of their social impact on individuals.

Kapor's statement contrasts two aspects of vision: the pragmatic, focused on commercial success, and the humanistic, which considers the broader, more compassionate role that technology can play in people's lives. He implies that Gates's business model and vision for the computer industry, while highly successful, often lacked a consideration for how technology could truly serve and enhance people's lives in a more personal or socially responsible way. The quote suggests that a more holistic approach to technology could balance both innovation and the well-being of users.

The origin of the quote comes from Kapor's experience in the tech industry, where he worked on creating software that aimed to simplify and improve computer use for people, making them more accessible. His view of Gates contrasts with his own approach, which emphasized not just the business aspect of technology but also its impact on users and their everyday lives. Kapor was part of a broader movement in technology that sought to democratize computing, ensuring that it served more than just corporate interests.

Ultimately, Kapor's quote underscores the tension between the commercial and humanistic sides of technology. While he acknowledges Gates’s brilliance in creating a global tech empire, he believes that a compassionate and people-centered approach to technology would have led to even more meaningful progress. It highlights the importance of not just advancing technology but also ensuring it aligns with human values and needs.