In the UK this spirit of innovation can be seen in our programmes and policies:
Fostering Innovation in Young People
The Microsoft Imagine Cup supports innovation from young people across the world to showcase their talent and inspire the next generation.
Microsoft Research
Microsoft Research, based in Cambridge, is dedicated to conducting both basic and applied research in computer science and software engineering.
Voices for Innovation (VFI)
Innovation is vital to the technology industry, leading to global economic growth and social progress. Voices for Innovation (VFI) is an extensive and diverse network of technology professionals, business leaders, consumers and academics committed to advancing business opportunities within the technology industry and the promotion of public policies that support them. With the support of Microsoft, VFI members educate thought leaders and elected officials about new technologies and the positive impact they have on global economies and jobs. By participating in VFI, members raise the profile of their company, learn from tech leaders and help win policies that are beneficial for our industry.
Our spirit of innovation is reflected in our policies in respect of:
Interoperability
Interoperability—the ability of diverse IT applications or systems to exchange and use information—is an increasingly important software feature. Customers select and use the best products to meet their IT needs, and they expect all of those products, whether open source or proprietary, to work together seamlessly.
For this to be true, competitors must also work together. Microsoft is a leader in forging strategic partnerships with the IT community, including competing companies, to provide customers with increased interoperability without compromising the distinctive underlying capabilities of the software.
Intellectual Property
To achieve artistic, technological, and commercial progress, society must build on the work of innovative people. This work, or intellectual property (IP), is protected by patent, trademark, and copyright laws, and these laws are constantly evolving.
At Microsoft, intellectual property is at the heart of what we do. We believe that IP is a great incentive system that fosters innovation and provides a framework that promotes business growth and allows innovators to effectively bring their ideas to market. Enabling IP opportunity also benefits society. Consumers benefit from innovation in the form of new products and increased productivity. Communities benefit when new business and employment opportunities are created, enabling economic growth. Governments gain opportunities for increased tax revenues.
Did you know?
In 2008 Microsoft Employees fundraised over £500,000 for UK Charities.
Last year 6,530 PC were refurbished in the UK through the MAR scheme.
Last year Microsoft donated £10 million of software to UK charities.
In 2008 25 teams undertook a one day volunteering project in the local community.