Online consumers and employees prefer interactions with like-minded individuals, and recognition for their loyalty that will further incentivize their evangelism of the brand.

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For example - just say "web browser" to get online, use voice recognition to start a search, and wave a hand to control the mouse cursor and select links.

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Microsoft's sprawling business division now competes with Cisco for the business of digitizing office voice communications (bolstered by Raikes' acquisition of voice-recognition software specialist Tellme last March) and Elop will have to take on online threats to Microsoft's productivity software, such as the free online productivity tools offered by Google, as well.

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Microsoft's sprawling business division now competes with Cisco (nasdaq: CSCO - news - people ) for the business of digitizing office voice communications (bolstered by Raikes' acquisition of voice-recognition software specialist Tellme last March) and Elop will have to take on online threats to Microsoft's productivity software, such as the free online productivity tools offered by Google (nasdaq: GOOG - news - people ), as well.

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With online challenges, students have an opportunity to show their potential in a real-world scenario and earn recognition from potential employers.

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