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Computer industry

Microsoft and Partnerships: Expanding Reach and Improving Products

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Microsoft Corp. has granted Authorized Technical Education Center (ATEC) designation to Magellan University, a Tucson-based online educational group. Magellan University delivers educational programs directly over the Internet, offering a range of courses, including Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer training, college-level calculus, and desktop application training. In addition, American Fence and Security Co. Inc. has introduced a digital solution for customers to visualize fencing options, and HP and Apple have formed an alliance to deliver HP printers compatible with Macintosh operating systems. Meanwhile, Microsoft's online magazine, Slate, has signed a distribution agreement with The New York Times Syndicate, expanding its global reach. America Online Inc. (AOL) has also made significant strides, boasting over 12 million members, with 1 million added in the past three months alone.

Key Takeaways:

  • Magellan University has received the ATEC designation from Microsoft Corp. for its online educational programs, including Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer training and college-level calculus.
  • American Fence and Security Co. Inc. uses digital camera technology and FenceMaker software to create virtual renderings of fencing options for customers.
  • HP and Apple have partnered to deliver HP printers compatible with Macintosh operating systems, such as the DeskJet 890CM and HP DeskWriter 694C.
  • Slate, Microsoft's online magazine, has signed a distribution agreement with The New York Times Syndicate, making it the first Internet-based magazine to join the Times' global syndicate.
  • AOL has added over 1 million subscribers in the past three months, surpassing Prodigy's entire subscriber list.
  • Magellan University offers over 400 online lessons, including desktop application training.

Statistics:

  • 5,072 people responded to BusinessWeek's questionnaire regarding the Microsoft antitrust probe, with 67% opposing further investigation.
  • The number of AOL members has expanded to over 12 million, with 1 million added in the last three months.
  • The number of subscribers to Prodigy, the first mass-market online service, was surpassed by AOL's growth in just three months.
  • The New York Times Syndicate distributes more than 80 columns, features, and news services to over 2,000 news organizations.
  • Slate, Microsoft's online magazine, signed a distribution agreement with The New York Times Syndicate.

Sources:

  • BusinessWeek, April 20 issue
  • Magellan University at www.magellan.edu
  • American Fence and Security Co. Inc. at 746-1400
  • HP and Apple press release
  • The New York Times Syndicate at [date not specified]
  • AOL press release
  • Prodigy, [no date specified]

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