Short term planning can mean anything to an observer though. For some, that's the next cycle, others thats the next 10 years. Microsoft employs a huge squadron

Short term planning can mean anything to an observer though. For some, that's the next cycle, others thats the next 10 years. Microsoft employs a huge squadron of engineers, managers, and execs, all owning distinct products, tools, software, etc. They can have multiple people planning short and long term things, and they do. I doubt Microsoft will cease to exist within the next 10 years.