And the S.E.C. is off its back, although the agency continues to investigate some former Xerox executives.

This time, Xerox executives hope they have found a formula for success by working hand-in-hand with the computer industry instead of competing toe-to-toe in it.

Indeed, Xerox executives have had their share of worries over their lack of consumer experience.

'We Were Targeted' Xerox executives describe the struggle with the Japanese in stark, military terms.

But having been promised shares in Apple's hotly anticipated stock offering, a Xerox executive forced the issue by phone.

When Xerox last tried selling these advanced office systems, in the early 1980's, most businesses were not ready for them, Xerox executives say.

He challenged the practices, thereby angering Xerox executives.

Mr. Glavin said his duties would be parceled out to other Xerox executives.

Nor do all the former Xerox executives garner much sympathy from analysts and investors.

Indeed, Xerox executives believe that the auction technology may have a commercial application that falls much closer to the heart of Xerox's business: printing services.