By Tom S. Noda
Computerworld Philippines
March 4, 2010

To achieve its vision for Windows to become the best Web platform, Microsoft recently launched WebsiteSpark, an initiative designed to set up a partner network and enable business growth for start-up Web development and design companies.

Ed Quek, Web and client strategy lead of Microsoft Asia-Pacific, said WebsiteSpark drives new business opportunities by connecting Web professionals and hosters with an ecosystem of customers, partners and other professionals with complementary technologies.

“This is for firms doing business on the Web like blogging and also for SMEs (small medium-enterprises) who don’t have their own Web development team to help them in their digital marketing,” Quek said.

As the latest initiative in the Spark family of programs, which includes Microsoft BizSpark and DreamSpark, the WebsiteSpark Program provides Web professionals with Microsoft software and solutions, together with related tools, training and support.

Along with the launching of WebsiteSpark, Microsoft also introduced new tools that are described to create richer and more compelling Web experiences for Web professionals. They are the Web Platform Installer 2.0 and the Windows Web Application Gallery 2.0.

Under the WebsiteSpark program, Web development and design companies with up to 10 employees and owners can participate in the software giant’s initiative.

“WebsiteSpark is not only meant to jumpstart business development for small professional Web development and design companies but the program also provides customer access to Microsoft’s development tools for three years with no up-front cost,” Quek said. “We want to ensure local Web Pros that when they enroll in the program; they can take advantage of driving new business opportunities through connections with partners and customers all over the world.”

Quek said the Web development market in the Philippines is pegged to be at Php1 billion, mostly providing services to the hospitality industry, also consumer to consumer sites, the business to consumer sites, among others.

He said that besides offering developer tools and production license for hosting, the program further helps in overcoming cost hurdles via free training support and legit software.

Yet Quek said the program’s benefit to Microsoft would be for people to use Windows as their Web platform of choice.

“We want people to use Windows as the best web platform,” Quek said.

The DigitalFilipino.com Club and Philippine Software Process Improvement Network are among the first Filipino organizations to take part of the WebsiteSpark program. 

In addition to software, solutions, training and support, the program will extend the reach of participating companies by featuring their offerings in a WebsiteSpark marketplace, supported by Microsoft marketing vehicles. This marketplace will help them connect with new prospective customers worldwide.

“WebsiteSpark will drive innovation in the local Web development industry.  Web Pros will be able to benefit from Microsoft marketing and business networking vehicles that will allow them to expand their customer base and increase revenue growth,” Quek said. “We want to build a better business and technical ecosystem for Filipino Web developers and Web agencies, and we will continue to help Web Pros expand their business opportunities.”

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