CSR News

Apr. 27 /CSRwire/ - Redmond, Wash. - April 27, 2009 - Microsoft has unveiled an online resource that showcases the company's impact on local communities globally. The new tool named Microsoft Local Impact Map (www.microsoft.com/LocalImpactMap) chronicles over 350 case studies and a wealth of data that demonstrate how Microsoft's partnerships and technology are positively impacting over 230 countries and regions around the world.

Discussing the new Web tool, Microsoft's Senior Director for Corporate Citizenship Dan Bross said: "The Microsoft Local Impact Map highlights how our business, employees and partnerships are contributing to communities everywhere. Using dynamic Silverlight technology, we can now demonstrate Microsoft's economic and community impact, as well as share some amazing stories and learnings from every corner of the globe."

The Local Impact Map Web site allows a visualization of Microsoft's commitment to corporate citizenship. Microsoft corporate citizenship programs support the company's mission, to help people and businesses around the world realize their full potential. In pursuing this mission, Microsoft partners with governments, community organizations and individuals to provide training, infrastructure and technology that enable expanded opportunities and sustainable economic growth and prosperity. For more information about corporate citizenship at Microsoft visit www.microsoft.com/citizenship.

The online map allows users to find information about the worldwide technology sector, as well as Microsoft-specific data, including national-level and global data on:

• Technology readiness, broadband penetration and technology-related employment
  
• Microsoft-related employment, local revenue generated and corporate citizenship programs

Some of the map's most interesting content, however, lies among the hundreds of stories about people and communities whose lives have been enabled by technology. Some of these include:

• Kabelo Moloi, a deaf South African who learned IT skills to find a job and now helps other deaf people do the same;
  
• Six hundred villagers in Burirum Province in Thailand who use Microsoft software and technology training to manage their dwindling water supplies to ensure families and farmers receive the water they need; and
  
• Barbara Reuter, a Microsoft partner who is using technology skills training to improve the employment prospects of New York's low-income youth.

The Microsoft Local Impact Map's content and features will be updated over time, making it a valuable resource for partners and other stakeholders interested in tracking Microsoft’s community impact worldwide.

For more information about the Microsoft Local Impact Map visit www.microsoft.com/LocalImpactMap.

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

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