Update May 14, 2008

Directions on Microsoft is seeking a developer platforms guru to help us inform and advise our IT executive clients about Microsoft's developer technologies and strategies.

The ideal candidate has extensive experience using or designing development platforms, enjoys being immersed in the technology and explaining it to audiences less technical than themselves, prefers to work in a small team with other exceptional professionals they like and trust, appreciates having no management responsibility (beyond managing themselves), and values minimal travel requirements and the flexibility to work from our lake-front offices in downtown Kirkland or telecommute most of the week.

The Organization

Directions on Microsoft is an independent IT analyst firm (founded in 1992) focused exclusively on Microsoft. We are a trusted source of objective information for people whose job depends on knowing what Microsoft is doing and where it's heading. Industry executives around the world rely on our product and technology roadmaps, in-depth research reports, ongoing news and analysis, executive organization charts, and briefing and advisory services.

Directions on Microsoft analysts typically have 15+ years of industry experience, some in technical positions, some in high-tech journalism. Our offices are on the Lake Washington waterfront a short distance from Microsoft headquarters—you won't find a more idyllic work setting. Plus, you'll have the option to telecommute for the majority of your work week.

Your Responsibilities

• Research, understand, and communicate strategic shifts in core Microsoft developer platforms, tools, and technologies, such as .NET Framework, ASP.NET, Silverlight, Visual Studio, as well as developer aspects of products such as Exchange, SharePoint, Communications Server, and Dynamics.
• Evaluate the merits of each developer technology in terms its architecture and capabilities, strategic importance to Microsoft customers and partners, the kinds of applications and environments it is best suited for, the skill set required to use it, and how it relates to or overlaps with other Microsoft technologies.
• Assess the relative advantages and limits of new Microsoft tools compared to existing alternatives, determine how each is likely to evolve (or be phased out) over time, and identify other important considerations related to adoption.
• Contribute approximately 5,000 words per month to our research and analysis services and deliver phone based and in-person briefings to our customers.
• Stay up-to-date on Microsoft technologies and track the developer community by reading, experimenting with the technology, attending conferences (some invitation-only events on the Microsoft campus), and maintaining an ongoing dialog with our many contacts at Microsoft.
• Use your industry experience and technical acumen to separate substance from marketing hype, and make the complex seem simple without sacrificing accuracy.

Your Qualifications

• You have 10+ years experience using or designing development platforms, including experience with programming and project management, and have broad exposure to Microsoft developer-related technologies. Experience with Web development and Web services is a plus.
• You understand the "mind set" of corporate IT departments and system integrators building custom software on top of Microsoft development platforms, and commercial ISVs building products for resale.
• You love learning about and analyzing technologies and explaining their significance to others, and can work with little or no direction.
• You can communicate with customers effectively, verbally and in writing, and can explain complex technical topics to both your technical peers as well as people with limited technical backgrounds.
• You enjoy working with intelligent peers, accept their feedback willingly, and put it to constructive use.

Benefits

We offer a superb compensation package that includes pension, 401(k), and health benefits. We also offer a relaxed and collegial work environment, plus a flexible work schedule. Travel requirements are minimal. This position requires relocation to the Seattle area.

To Apply

To apply for this position, e-mail your resume and writing samples to jparker at directionsonmicrosoft.com or fax them to 425.739.0339.