Microsoft Fires up Free Tools for Developers

Microsoft on Thursday launched its WebsiteSpark programme, intended to encourage web developers to use the company's tools and technologies.

Like the startup-focused BizSpark, and the student and educational DreamSpark, WebsiteSpark gives small web design companies 'no upfront cost' access to Microsoft tools and technologies for three years, with companies paying just $100 (£61.81) to participate at the end of that period.

"We're hoping to enrol agencies that have had little or no contact with Microsoft," said William Coleman, WebsiteSpark lead for the UK, when describing Microsoft's plans for the programme.

Unlike BizSpark, which is restricted to new businesses building on Microsoft technologies, WebsiteSpark has a more open approach, and any design house with fewer than 10 employees is eligible, Coleman noted. "There's a lot of trust in this," he said, noting that the only commitment participants need to make is to deploy one website on Windows technologies within the first six months.

Taken separately, the tools in the programme would cost a lot more than $100 over three years. Companies get access to Microsoft's web design and development tools, with three licences of Microsoft Visual Studio 2008 Professional Edition, two of Microsoft Expression Web 3 and one of Microsoft Expression Studio 3.

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