From Microsoft to AT&T: An Extraordinary Journey
Tom Evslin’s Involvement with Microsoft
Tom Evslin led the WorldNet initiative at AT&T and was instrumental in the creation of what later transformed into Microsoft Exchange and Outlook. In the early ’90s, Evslin emerged as one of Microsoft’s “internet visionaries.” Bill Gates was terrified of Lotus Notes evolving into a platform as influential as Windows, which led him to invest substantial resources into Exchange. Evslin had a different perspective, viewing Exchange through the lens of an “email enthusiast.” He advocated for a delay in the product launch to enhance its internet relevance. Gates disagreed, regarding the delays as mere procrastination.
The Internet Dilemma
Evslin became exasperated with Gates’ viewpoint. While overseeing Exchange’s gateways—services that link mail systems—Evslin observed a remarkable trend. A sudden surge in demand emerged for the SMTP gateway, enabling internet connectivity. Corporate executives labeled it as “unsafe” and “insecure,” yet engineers were clandestinely exploring the web.
The Outlook Ambition
From the outset, Evslin aimed for Exchange’s client to incorporate graphics and fonts similar to Word. However, the existence of different formatting engines for Word and Outlook caused them to miss the cohesive vision Evslin had in mind.
Evslin’s Transition to AT&T
Navigating an Internet Course
After Gates emphasized product release over internet integration, AT&T approached, seeking Evslin to shape their internet strategy. AT&T experimented with proprietary networks, yet Evslin envisioned them as an ISP. He advocated for an all-you-can-eat pricing model, a groundbreaking idea at that time.
Rapid Launch, Agile Adaptation
AT&T was encumbered by internal discussions about lengthy launch schedules. Evslin proposed a swift launch followed by real-time adjustments. WorldNet provided straightforward access, causing demand to surge, nearly renaming AT&T as “America On Hold.”
The VoIP Endeavor
Beyond AT&T
Fascinated by the rising domain of VoIP, Evslin recognized it was a futile effort at AT&T. Thus, in 1997, he left to found ITXC, a wholesale VoIP provider.
Summary: A Man’s Reflection
Gates may have briefly overlooked the internet revolution, but Evslin was already forging ahead. From spearheading email innovations at Microsoft to guiding AT&T into the online realm, he consistently stayed ahead of the curve, all the while with a playful smile and unwavering determination.
