GSquared,

We think alike on the ethical frequency from what I read. The difference op opinion here is in the fine details and some of the details are missing as Google did not disclose that information. I am assuming that because they made it public they intend to make some sort of product out of it that is more then just a formula. If they do not, why go out in the open and make it visible Google is loosing talent?

Because I believe they will try to make a product out of it, I also reason it will be some sort of adaptive process in order to fit different style of companies. This requires input and a solid understanding of the modeling behind the software. This is where I see great opportunities for things to go wrong and that least me to conclude the whole attempt has negative build-in properties.

I fully agree with you that if the rules the formula/software follows are as you outlay there is little risk of abuse and it will have some positive effect in most hands. It wouldn't be more then a reporting tool like the tons that already exist in companies, but what then is all the fuss about? Why go public with it?

At least you now know where I am coming from 🙂