[JimmyL]

I don't think there are any airline points that work across _all_ airlines - if for no other reason than this removes the loyalty incentive that makes FF programs attractive to the host airlines. Generally, the programs that let you use your points anywhere will be run by a third-party, often your credit-card provider.

As the article says, get every account you might fly on, but keep your focus on one airline/alliance. If you need to move your points around between airlines, there are services like points.com that let you do that for a fee.