From operating systems to the applications found on almost every office and home PC, Microsoft Corp. keeps its research and development and mergers and acquisitions teams busy. In addition to general office applications -- familiar tools such as Word, Excel and Internet Explorer, as well as more sophisticated back-office and development products such as SQL Server and Visual Studio -- Microsoft has written or acquired software specifically designed for construction professionals. These include Dynamics GP, Dynamics AX Construction and Dynamics NAV.

Founded in 1975 by Bill Gates, Redmond, Washington-based Microsoft now employs more than 91,000 people and generated more than $60 billion in revenue at the close of fiscal year 2008 in June. Microsoft offers a range of software and services both directly and through a vast network of partners authorized to customize, implement, support and train users on the vendor’s myriad menu of technologies.