Confessions of an IT Manager_Phil Factor

Section II: The Strange Business of Software 73
And then there is the awful moment when it dawns on an over-extended
small company that a synergistic relationship was never on the cards. The large
company has beguiled them into doing a free business analysis, received a great
deal of specialised information, and will often have got them to write all the
documentation for them.
"A loaf of bread," the Walrus said,
"Is what we chiefly need:
Pepper and vinegar besides
Are very good indeed--
Now if you're ready, Oysters dear,
We can begin to feed."
"But not on us!" the Oysters cried,
Turning a little blue.
"After such kindness, that would be
A dismal thing to do!"
"The night is fine," the Walrus said.
"Do you admire the view?"
Eventually, the banks who have loaned the money to the small company
realise that a deal isn't on the cards and call in the loan. The company will have
put so much energy into the deal that it will make them very vulnerable. Even if
the deal goes through, the Oyster suddenly realises the dangers of shedding all
those fixed assets that have been put in place purely for the project, if the deal
is terminated or renegotiated.
"I weep for you," the Walrus said:
"I deeply sympathize."
With sobs and tears he sorted out
Those of the largest size,
Holding his pocket-handkerchief
Before his streaming eyes.
"O Oysters," said the Carpenter,
"You've had a pleasant run!
Shall we be trotting home again?"
But answer came there none--
And this was scarcely odd, because
They'd eaten every one.