Archive for Business
Detached Leadership and the Result
Posted by: | CommentsThe recent crisis across the globe is a direct result of the detached leadership in government and corporations alike. Many of our chosen leaders live in a bubble and their connection to the people they govern has been lost somewhere in the midst of their desires to grow and become larger than life. Life requires connection and knowing yourself and the people you govern is key to success. We can not recover from the crisis we are faced with currently without a reconnection between the parties from the top down.
It is not just the financial wedge of the top with the bottom but also the personal and professional detachment that has caused resentment and a firm break between the two. Many employees of companies are not known by name or even a face by those they work for and in goverment many of our leaders rarley know more than a few of those they represent. This phenomenon of detachment and the resentments that have ensued because of the poor results of the representation of the leadership must change for their to be a recovery.
We must make an effort to reconnect and appreciate the contributions of all those around us from our neighborhoods to our companies. I encourage the boards and leadership to take the time to meet and greet the people around them and to acknowldge their input and to slow down enough to listen to what they have to say. We must as a community encourage this reconnection and begin the growth process from the beginning all over again.
Microsoft BizSpark™ Helps Software Developers Launch their Startups
Posted by: | CommentsIn today’s economy, it can be harder than ever to get a startup off the ground. Microsoft wants to help. Realizing its own success is tied to new technologies, the Redmond software giant offers a program called BizSpark™ that helps developers create their technologies with a three-fold approach:
· Software: BizSpark™members may download full professional versions of many of Microsoft’s software development tools, such as Microsoft Visual Studio®, and several platform products, such as Microsoft Windows Server®.
· Support: BizSpark™members are provided a subscription in the Microsoft Developer Network (MSDN), which offers access to a broad range of Microsoft tools and technologies used to design, develop, and test software. Members also receive technical support from Microsoft.
· Visibility: BizSpark™members are profiled in an online directory to potential investors, partners, and customers.
To join BizSpark™, a startup must be:
· Developing a software product or service that is or will be a key part of its business (exceptions apply, such as hosting),
· In business for less than 3 years, and
· Generating less that USD $1 million in annual revenues (exceptions apply in certain countries).
· Sponsored by a Network Partner or BizSpark Champ. Resources are available to help find sponsorship.
There is no cost until you exit the program and then the cost is only USD $100.
If your startup doesn’t meet the above requirement, Microsoft has other programs that may benefit you. For more information, visit:
