[js8]

While I largely agree, I think this is inaccurate:

> Whoever owns the lowest levels of the architecture, dictates everything

I think in IT, the people who can create most complexity for others, while keeping things relatively simpler for themselves, can dictate. Because these people then can sell the expertise, since they "produce" it cheaper than everyone else.

Using HW barriers, or just closed-sourcing the stuff just happen to be quite effective ways how to make things complex for others and simple for yourself. Another way is to create your own language, standard or API. Yet another way is network barrier and data ownership (aka SaaS).

My point is, it's possible to dictate on any level, not just the lowest.

[grisBeik]

Thanks; this is a great thought! Let me try to refine it: "create irreplaceable complexity for others".