Microsoft 2004 Annual Report Download - page 4

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PAGE 4
engaged in industry efforts to protect peoples’ privacy online, counter the problem of identify theft, and curb the spam
epidemic.
The fight against spam is a good example of our commitment to the development of industry standards, which accelerate
the advance of technology by helping ensure that different devices and software work well together. Microsoft has
collaborated on the Sender ID framework, a technology designed to prevent e-mail forgery, which is used to spread spam
and perpetrate online fraud. Submitted for consideration as an Internet standard, the Sender ID framework will be freely
available for widespread use.
Everywhere we do business, we aim to help strengthen local economies. One way is through our products, which help our
customers be more productive and competitive. Another way is through our business model, which is based on partnering
with more than 600,000 other technology firms throughout the world. They create applications, provide computer services,
and, in many other ways, build their businesses on our platform, generating local jobs and billions of dollars in tax
revenue. A global study of 22,000 technology companies found that Microsoft’s partners earn an average of $8 for every
$1 that Microsoft earns.
We are partnering to bring the benefits of technology to communities and classrooms around the world. Last year alone,
Microsoft provided more than $440 million in cash and software to more than 5,000 schools and nonprofit organizations.
Through our Unlimited Potential and Partners in Learning initiatives, we are working with governments and communities in
many countries to promote workforce development and lifelong digital literacy.
We are enormously excited by the tremendous possibilities that lie ahead. As ever, we thank you for your continued
support.
Bill Gates
Chairman and Chief Software Architect
Steven A. Ballmer
Chief Executive Officer