MVP Award

Microsoft began the MVP Awards in the early 1990s as a way to recognize those members of the general public who devoted their time and considerable technical expertise to helping users in various online technical forums. Over time the Microsoft MVP program evolved, and awards are now given to the most outstanding members for their exceptional contributions to hundreds of online and offline technical communities, including Microsoft public newsgroups.

The Microsoft Most Valuable Professional (MVP) award is given by Microsoft to technology experts who passionately share their knowledge with the community. They are awarded to people who actively share their technical expertise with the different technology communities related directly, or indirectly to Microsoft. They have very deep knowledge of Microsoft products and services, while also being able to bring together diverse platforms, products and solutions, to solve real world problems.

MVPs make up a global community of over 4,000 technical experts and community leaders across 90 countries/regions and are driven by their passion, community spirit, and quest for knowledge. Above all and in addition to their amazing technical abilities, MVPs are always willing to help others - thats what sets them apart. The MVP recognition lasts for a year and is awarded for a persons Microsoft related activity, contributions and influence over the previous year. The rules and guidelines to getting awarded as a Microsoft MVP are not strictly defined. The reason for this is that every Microsoft MVP contributes to the community in different ways. However, the largest key indicator Microsoft looks for when considering someone for the Microsoft MVP Award is how much impact their activities over the last 12 months have on the community.

This affiliation is given to individuals who have received an award in the MVP program. The MVP Award recognizes exceptional technical community leaders from around the world who voluntarily share their deep, real-world knowledge about Microsoft technologies with others. Potential MVPs are nominated by other technical community members, MVPs and Microsoft personnel who have noted their leadership and their willingness and ability to help others make the most of their Microsoft technology.

MVPs are independent of Microsoft, with separate opinions and perspectives, and are able to represent the views of the community members with whom they engage every day.