Peter Vatistas

I have been a member of Microsoft’s IT Advisory Council for quite some time now and I am really impressed with the community response for Microsoft related issues and discussion.

The IT Advisory Council is a select group of IT Professionals and Developers, which purpose is to share your views, ideas and opinions, helping Microsoft shape future initiatives. As a member, you play an integral part in providing the ITAC and Microsoft with feedback on Microsoft customer offerings, licensing, support, marketing materials and community initiatives.

Members communicate with each other via an online portal and a program of face-to-face and online events. Each event is currently limited to 12 members to ensure rich discussion and members will be eligible to participate based on a point-system in the portal. Membership also involves completing a monthly online ‘task’, which can be completing a mini-survey or sharing member experiences on the portal forums and blogs to help Microsoft understand what it’s like to be in Microsoft “expert” shoes.

The ITAC is a locked community meaning that just not anyone can join and participate. The ITAC offers an application process for anyone interested to join. After you complete the application process your information is reviewed by a board of administrators and moderators and you are notified within a week whether your accepted.

Give it a shot, apply to the Microsoft IT Advisory Council and help make a difference!

Today I was lucky enough to attend Microsoft’s Hero’s Happen {here} and all I can say is “wow”. Microsoft is taking big steps in the right direction and really listening to what the IT world wants and needs - finally. Although the seminars were very informative I really benefited from the exhibitor hall where sponsors, partners and general businesses complimenting Microsoft products set up shop.

I met a lot of smart people and a few key developers (which I have been looking for). All in all this was a great event and the schwag just rocked! Attending Hero’s happen {here} gets you Microsoft Windows Server 2008 Enterprise, Microsoft SQL Server 2008, Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 and Microsoft Windows Vista Ultimate!! Thank you Microsoft!!