The Global Executive Roundtable program was established in 1995. In addition to GER 98, there are currently three other GER groups (1995, 1996 and 1997). After each GER is formed, it continues as a standing body of approximately 40-50 selected worldwide enterprise customers. Senior information system executives from these companies meet twice each year in the Seattle area to discuss technology issues, receive the latest product information, and give direct feedback to Microsoft executives about the challenging issues they face in their businesses and how Microsoft can improve technology and services to better meet their needs. Feedback from these customers affects Microsoft’s business decisions at all levels. It helps company executives learn what they are doing well and what they need to improve.
The Microsoft executives participating in this week’s session include Bill Gates, chairman and CEO; Paul Maritz, group vice president, platforms and applications group; and Deborah Willingham, vice president of the enterprise customer unit. Key business issues being discussed include Gaining Business Value with Information Technology, the Digital Nervous System, and challenges related to the Year 2000 and the European Monetary Unit (Euro).
