Microsoft Garage

Microsoft_Garage_logo_2015

Microsoft Garage is an initiative by Microsoft that encourages its employees to work on innovative projects and ideas outside their regular job responsibilities. It serves as a platform for experimentation and creativity, allowing employees to develop new technologies, applications, and solutions that may not be directly related to their primary work.

History

The Microsoft Garage was officially launched in 2009. It was inspired by the concept of a "hackathon" and aimed to foster a culture of innovation within the company. The initiative provides resources, tools, and a collaborative environment for employees to explore new ideas and technologies.

Objectives

The primary objectives of the Microsoft Garage are:

• To promote a culture of innovation and creativity within Microsoft.
• To provide employees with the opportunity to work on passion projects.
• To accelerate the development of new technologies and solutions.
• To encourage cross-team collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Projects

The Microsoft Garage has been responsible for a wide range of projects, including mobile applications, software tools, and hardware prototypes. Some notable projects include:

• Mouse without Borders - A software tool that allows users to control multiple computers with a single mouse and keyboard.
• Snip Insights - An AI-powered tool that enhances screenshots with additional information and insights.
• Dictate - A speech-to-text tool that integrates with Microsoft Office applications.

Facilities

The Microsoft Garage provides various facilities to support its employees' projects, including:

• Dedicated workspaces and labs equipped with the latest technology.
• Access to a wide range of software and hardware tools.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals within Microsoft.

Impact

The Microsoft Garage has had a significant impact on the company's culture and innovation pipeline. It has led to the development of several successful products and technologies that have been integrated into Microsoft's mainstream offerings. Additionally, it has helped to foster a sense of community and collaboration among employees.

Related Pages

• Microsoft
• Microsoft Office
• Mouse without Borders
• Snip Insights
• Dictate

See Also

• Hackathon
• Innovation
• Technology