This report charts Microsoft’s journey from its 1970s roots in the BASIC interpreter and DOS partnership through the explosion of Windows and Office to today’s leadership in cloud computing and AI. It breaks down Microsoft’s core business units—Productivity & Business Processes, Intelligent Cloud, and More Personal Computing—analyzes strategic moves like the rise of Azure, Copilot’s integration, and key acquisitions (LinkedIn, GitHub), and evaluates its competitive stance versus AWS and Google Cloud. The analysis also covers cultural and leadership shifts under Satya Nadella, regulatory headwinds, financial performance, and offers recommendations for sustaining growth through AI innovation, ecosystem partnerships, and robust governance.
This report charts Microsoft’s journey from its 1970s roots in the BASIC interpreter and DOS partnership through the explosion of Windows and Office to today’s leadership in cloud computing and AI. It breaks down Microsoft’s core business units—Productivity & Business Processes, Intelligent Cloud, and More Personal Computing—analyzes strategic moves like the rise of Azure, Copilot’s integration, and key acquisitions (LinkedIn, GitHub), and evaluates its competitive stance versus AWS and Google Cloud. The analysis also covers cultural and leadership shifts under Satya Nadella, regulatory headwinds, financial performance, and offers recommendations for sustaining growth through AI innovation, ecosystem partnerships, and robust governance.