TechWag

: Image via CrunchBase

If you are involved with a Microsoft employee, the Microsoft Immigration Family Network is a support site for people involved in Microsoft employees. So when your significant other is spending long nights and days at work, there is a place you can go to meet new people, and talk about issues you might have.

While the public side of the network is very sparse, there is not a lot of information without a login required, and you have to prove that you are somehow related to a Microsoft employee, this is still an interesting idea for building a support web site for people who are involved with Microsoft employees. The US Military could take a lesson from this one, if they are not doing it already. While most of this has to do with Immigration issues that does not mean that others will not find it valuable.

Microsoft launched the Retrogression Family Initiative in 2007 to address family concerns of Microsoft employees impacted by Green Card Retrogression. The purpose of the initiative is to provide programs to enrich the lives of Microsoft employee Spouses/partners impacted by the green card retrogression. This website is one tactic which provides spouses/partners with information related to career and self- development and opportunities to realize their full potential. Microsoft FAQ

What is cool is that this is a social environment, where people with common issues, such as new to the country, language issues, or even just employment issues can and do need a continuing level of support. The testimonials are compelling; this is working for some folks who are away from their countries, and their cultures. Again the military could take a serious lesson from this one, if the military is doing this already, let me know I have not seen anything like this on the military side.

Good effort on Microsoft’s part. If anyone has any experience with the web site, drop us a note, let us know what you think of the Microsoft Family Immigration Network.