Five things I love about Microsoft

Giving -- As someone who does a lot in the community, I really appreciate the fact that Microsoft spends a lot of money each year to support those organizations where I volunteer.  Whether it's matching my time with money, or matching dollar for dollar, Microsoft's commitment to the community is inspiring.  Expand this out to some 90,000 employees and the amount that Microsoft gives to the community is staggering.

Learning -- Pretty much everyone you meet at Microsoft is interested in learning about something.  Perhaps this is why they have so many incredible speakers come through.  Whether it's authors like Malcolm Gladwell, global innovators like Muhammad Yunus, and former President Bill Clinton, there's always someone fascinating that comes to Microsoft to share their thoughts.

Global perspective -- With offices world wide, and software and services that reach well beyond the geographic footprint of Microsoft, the need to work and play well on a global level is always front and center in planning.  Having this global perspective is very beneficial in ensuring the right products, services and messaging is delivered.  I personally don't know of many places that really take this to heart.

Diversity -- From my perspective, the diversity at Microsoft is comparable to that which you'd find in New York City.  Microsoft works with people from all different backgrounds, experiences, opinions, and the like.  Not your typical perspective of a Microsoftie, now is it?  One new blog that profiles many different Microsoft perspectives is Microspotting

People -- the company would not be where it is today were it not for the passion and dedication of so many individuals.  From contract employees, vendors, interns, partners, and of course the full time employees, Microsoft draws an incredible range of smart, talented, and incredible individuals. 

It is with that though, I must bid farewell to a company I dedicated my last eight years to (six as a vendor with MSN Games, and two as a full time employee with the teams responsible for MSDN, TechNet and Expression).  It's time for me to move on and pursue new opportunities.  To all the people in games, community, and elsewhere at Microsoft who I worked with over the last several years, you have my thanks and admiration!