Watch 3 or more webcasts and get a free copy of Vista Business or Office 2007 Pro.

You should check out:
 
http://www.powertogether.com/

 for more information.


Very weird ad:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-SZzAT-S5DQ

Is this for real?

Sven Groot wrote:

US residents only

martin_lovick wrote:



Sven Groot wrote: US residents only

surprise surprise

Chadk wrote:



martin_lovick wrote:  Sven Groot wrote: US residents only surprise surprise

But.. It sux!

Mark Brown wrote:



Chadk wrote:  martin_lovick wrote:  Sven Groot wrote: US residents only surprise surprise But.. It sux!

Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide.

Sorry about this really.

Chadk wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  Chadk wrote:  martin_lovick wrote:  Sven Groot wrote: US residents only surprise surprise But.. It sux! Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide. Sorry about this really.

It all makes sense then!
Shame tho. We need some of the EU marketing divisions to do something like this.

jsampsonPC wrote:

On average, how long are the casts? I cannot seem to register

Mark, am I required to provide my SSN if I intend to only get Vista?

DigitalDud wrote:

I'm getting "Sorry, a System Error Occurred" when I try to register. Anyone else?

P.S. If anyone submits this to Slashdot or Digg I will punch you.

Jack Poison wrote:



DigitalDud wrote:I'm getting "Sorry, a System Error Occurred" when I try to register. Anyone else? P.S. If anyone submits this to Slashdot or Digg I will punch you.

Over a dozen times, dude..

Mark Brown wrote:


Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide.

Sorry about this really.

pathfinder wrote:

Same error for me too.  I will try again later.  There must be a database issue doing an insert.  I am interested in LINQ.  I saw Scott when he was in Phoenix and the technology looked great!!

corona_coder wrote:

No problem registering for the webcasts.  Im only participating for the historical value.  Windows Vista is already a legacy system according to Apple.

littleguru wrote:

Damn! Again I'm not getting anything. Is it somehow possible to get me a Vista? Didn't file any bugs, just reported them here, I'm not an US american (as some might know ) and I don't get a new windows mobile phone for a few bucks as I'm not US american again.

jsampsonPC wrote:



littleguru wrote: Damn! Again I'm not getting anything. Is it somehow possible to get me a Vista? Didn't file any bugs, just reported them here, I'm not an US american (as some might know ) and I don't get a new windows mobile phone for a few bucks as I'm not US american again.

What? No, you're crazy - you are an American...
right You live in Florida, in a little town called Pensacola.

Heck I know your address, it's on Cummings rd.
Right, buddy, just have your Vista shipped there

Mark Brown wrote:

Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with.

jsampsonPC wrote:



littleguru wrote:Damn! Again I'm not getting anything. Is it somehow possible to get me a Vista? Didn't file any bugs, just reported them here, I'm not an US american (as some might know ) and I don't get a new windows mobile phone for a few bucks as I'm not US american again.

What? No, you're crazy - you are an American...
right You live in Florida, in a little town called Pensacola.

Heck I know your address, it's on Cummings rd.
Right, buddy, just have your Vista shipped there

Jaz wrote:

so how many niners who aren't on some sorta FBI/CIA/INTERPOL/police most wanted list are willing to do a lil cheating for one or two of their good european friends?

if anyone can help me out it'd be much appreciated.

littleguru wrote:

 I'm not an US american (as some might know )

Godfather wrote:

Eh, take me to the America -- if you need a good lupara in America, take me -- I'd be the best man you can get.

...

America, America, va! take me to the America, G.I.! Clark Gable!

jsampsonPC wrote:

On average, how long are the casts? I cannot seem to register

Mark, am I required to provide my SSN if I intend to only get Vista?

JohnAskew wrote:



jsampsonPC wrote: On average, how long are the casts? I cannot seem to register Mark, am I required to provide my SSN if I intend to only get Vista?

What about those of us who make it a rule NOT to use SSN this way?

Mark?

The J wrote:

Not working here, either. Fortunately, according to the offer details, this offer lasts until sometime in February.

raymond wrote:

Great marketing campaign!

Go to register.com and type in powertogether.com

The domain is registered to someone in London, England in an apartment !
The nameservers are at msft.com (obviously meant to sound like microsoft)
but if you look this up its registered to NaturalProducts.com in Pensylvania, and the admin conact is in Vermont!

This is as fishy as fishy pie with extra fish on the side.

Doesn't sound like a microsoft tactic at all anyway.

This channel 9 promotion thread is not enough to convince me. I mean cmon someone called 'Mark Brown' says its true. What knid of generic name is that!!

This reminds me of when someone tried to say that the Nikon D70 camera was going to get a FIRMWARE upgrade to support bluetooth. First of all theres absolutely no bluetooth in the D70, and secondly bluetooth is the slowest wireless protocol there is and completely unsuited to transferring photos.

simeyla wrote:

Are you people all completely stupid?

Go to register.com and type in powertogether.com

The domain is registered to someone in London, England in an apartment !
The nameservers are at msft.com (obviously meant to sound like microsoft)
but if you look this up its registered to NaturalProducts.com in Pensylvania, and the admin conact is in Vermont!

This is as fishy as fishy pie with extra fish on the side...

CannotResolveSymbol wrote:


I doubt that either is the case, but I'm still not going to participate, because Microsoft has no business with my Social Security number.  Surely there is some way that they could run this so that they don't need one--  that's what makes this still seem fishy to me.

winlonghorn06 wrote:

Hi Mark, do we earn it if we have watched the on demand webcasts? I have watched 3 already and how do we know if we have completed the offer? Will we get an email?

j0217995 wrote:

Watched my first webcast and it shows that its still pending... do I need to do anything else?

bart7simpson7 wrote:

I totally don't understand why you can't watch the webcasts without being US citizen. I clicked NO, I don't want any presents, and still you have to complete a form in order to watch the webcasts. I thought your purpose was to make as many people as you can to watch it. If I have to give false dates in order to do that it kind of turns my enthusiasm off. The server error made it impossible anyway, but still. At least if someone says no to presents make another form where you can choose your country. I am sure you will make good use of a worldwide map of interest in the technologies that you promote.

WTG Mark Brown!

JKelley wrote:



Engadget just posted a short writeup about this offer, so you might want to be patient, it may get slammed even more than it already is.

Cybermagellan wrote:



JKelley wrote:  Engadget just posted a short writeup about this offer, so you might want to be patient, it may get slammed even more than it already is.

That way no one can use the site right?

No backend server available for connection: timed out after 10 seconds.

paste120 wrote:

I've tryed many times over 3 hours ... nothing.
I cant get the vista offer .. havent tryed the office yet.

Edit: Office works. get "System Error" when trying to view webcast

i signed up but also get this message for webcast.

Message from the ISAPI plugin:

No backend server available for connection: timed out after 10 seconds.

Build date/time: Apr 26 2004

Change Number: 376031

I guess I'll find out tomorrow whether or not my efforts were in vain.

Mark Brown wrote:



Chadk wrote:  martin_lovick wrote:  Sven Groot wrote: US residents only surprise surprise But.. It sux!

Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide.

Sorry about this really.

davidng150 wrote:

I hope downloading the webcasts count, since I keep getting error messages streaming them.

Mark Brown wrote:



davidng150 wrote: I hope downloading the webcasts count, since I keep getting error messages streaming them.

Yes, given the issues we've been having with streaming downloads will count toward your total.

Thanks guys for being so patient.

regards,
mark

idividebyzero wrote:

Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Windows Vista. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts to further your skills?

Awesome

Just wanted to say thanks, this is a great promotion. My favorite video was the one about sidebar gadgets, I didnt know they were so easy to make, I'll probably be making abunch of these things.

I have a couple questions about the shipping though. When it says "RTM" does that mean the RTM that was released earlier this month? Or is it referring to the consumer Jan 30th release (meaning we get it 6-8 weeks after Jan 30th)? Also, will we be told when it ships?

TimWoodland wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  davidng150 wrote: I hope downloading the webcasts count, since I keep getting error messages streaming them. Yes, given the issues we've been having with streaming downloads will count toward your total. Thanks guys for being so patient. regards, mark

I've been trying to stream with major problems.  I'm not seeing a place to download the videos to watch them. 

Mark Brown wrote:



TimWoodland wrote:  Mark Brown wrote:  davidng150 wrote: I hope downloading the webcasts count, since I keep getting error messages streaming them. Yes, given the issues we've been having with streaming downloads will count toward your total. Thanks guys for being so patient. regards, mark I've been trying to stream with major problems.  I'm not seeing a place to download the videos to watch them.

I believe you can right click on the link.

swight wrote:

I see everyone from the UK yelling out, so I just thought I'd stick in Canada's opinion on this that we'd love to have it too!

Mark Brown wrote:



idividebyzero wrote: Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Windows Vista. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts to further your skills? Awesome Just wanted to say thanks, this is a great promotion. My favorite video was the one about sidebar gadgets, I didnt know they were so easy to make, I'll probably be making abunch of these things. I have a couple questions about the shipping though. When it says "RTM" does that mean the RTM that was released earlier this month? Or is it referring to the consumer Jan 30th release (meaning we get it 6-8 weeks after Jan 30th)? Also, will we be told when it ships?

You should expect to get it roughly by mid to late January. Right around the time the launch events begin to roll out across the US.

btw, if you haven't I would definitely check out the launches we are doing across the US. Great way to get more information and see this stuff in action. Lots of Microsoft people there to meet and chat with and other great stuff too.

Thanks for being so patient. Again I apologize for the problems. We never realized that this thing would take off like it did. You guys are great.

regards,
mark

No backend server available for connection: timed out after 10 seconds.

TimWoodland wrote:


I've been trying to stream with major problems.  I'm not seeing a place to download the videos to watch them. 

paste120 wrote:

I have 2 pending .. I hope thats good ...

The J wrote:



TimWoodland wrote:  I've been trying to stream with major problems.  I'm not seeing a place to download the videos to watch them.

Go to the page where you'd normally play the stream.  Right below the Windows Media icon (what you normally click on to start the stream) is a text link that will let you download the file.  It'll say something like "click here to download webcast for offline viewing".

Glad to hear that downloading webcasts will count towards the promotion.  I got my three in, so here's hoping I'll have some Office 2007 in my future.

Still can't get the Vista page working, so I can't do the Vista promotion.  Oh well, at least I have a chance of getting one item.

IceCactus wrote:

I used to be a msdn subscriber, but my account expired about a year ago... i should eligible correct?

jason818_253.33 wrote:

Raymond, its not a secret when you go telling every one, now is it? 15,000 views on this thread in one day. thats a few. wow!

Mr.Baggins wrote:

I got the:


"Shipping Info Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts or vLabs required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Microsoft Office Professional 2007. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Microsoft Office Professional 2007. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts of vLabs to further your skills? "

now too.

What is the next step at this point? Will the "Your Stuff" page be updated saying if we qualify or not? Or will we get an email or what?

Jaz wrote:



Mark Brown wrote: Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide. Sorry about this really.

Hey Mark, i'm so glad you're part of the community as you give great insights, and this isn't an attack at you really though it may come across as that of which i'm sorry.

Microsoft is a huge organisation you have what 60-70k employee's worldwide.  I completely understand that you alone can't do the whole tax relief worldwide thing, thats not your fault at all, i wouldn't be able to.  But with a company so large with so many resources can't you phone up your UK/European counterpart and say "hey we're doing this cool promotion over here, i think it'd be really great if you could organise it over at your end and we can make it a joint WW event".

We over in europe see so many of these "get Microsoft * free when you watch webcasts" and then find out it's US only and we never or rarely see something our end.  it completely sucks for us and we want some love.

Is there a chance you could make some calls to your european counterparts and see if you can get somethig cool set up with them?

there must be some european MS guys thinking the same thing as you.

Mr.Baggins wrote:

I got the:


"Shipping Info Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts or vLabs required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Microsoft Office Professional 2007. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Microsoft Office Professional 2007. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts of vLabs to further your skills? "

now too.

What is the next step at this point? Will the "Your Stuff" page be updated saying if we qualify or not? Or will we get an email or what?

nbradshaw wrote:



Jaz wrote:  Mark Brown wrote:  Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide. Sorry about this really. Hey Mark, i'm so glad you're part of the community as you give great insights, and this isn't an attack at you really though it may come across as that of which i'm sorry. Microsoft is a huge organisation you have what 60-70k employee's worldwide.  I completely understand that you alone can't do the whole tax relief worldwide thing, thats not your fault at all, i wouldn't be able to.  But with a company so large with so many resources can't you phone up your UK/European counterpart and say "hey we're doing this cool promotion over here, i think it'd be really great if you could organise it over at your end and we can make it a joint WW event". We over in europe see so many of these "get Microsoft * free when you watch webcasts" and then find out it's US only and we never or rarely see something our end.  it completely sucks for us and we want some love. Is there a chance you could make some calls to your european counterparts and see if you can get somethig cool set up with them? there must be some european MS guys thinking the same thing as you.

Jaz, I COMPLETELY AGREE! Another example of how the good efforts in one section/area of  MS are undermined by a complete lack of foresight in another. Europe only ever seems to get the crumbs that MS are prepared to giveaway

nbradshaw wrote:



Jaz wrote:  Mark Brown wrote:  Yes, very sorry about that. I work in the US-Sub so there is that to contend with. I don't have the budget to do WW campaigns. There is also a tax issue as well that I wasn't prepared to deal with. If a user decides they want to take both the Vista and Office offer it is a taxable event here in the US since the combined value is over $600. That requires a W9 that we send to the user to be signed and sent back via fax or snail mail before we can ship the second product. Since I can't handle this type of thing for every country in the world you can see where my problem was with trying to do this world wide. Sorry about this really. Hey Mark, i'm so glad you're part of the community as you give great insights, and this isn't an attack at you really though it may come across as that of which i'm sorry. Microsoft is a huge organisation you have what 60-70k employee's worldwide.  I completely understand that you alone can't do the whole tax relief worldwide thing, thats not your fault at all, i wouldn't be able to.  But with a company so large with so many resources can't you phone up your UK/European counterpart and say "hey we're doing this cool promotion over here, i think it'd be really great if you could organise it over at your end and we can make it a joint WW event". We over in europe see so many of these "get Microsoft * free when you watch webcasts" and then find out it's US only and we never or rarely see something our end.  it completely sucks for us and we want some love. Is there a chance you could make some calls to your european counterparts and see if you can get somethig cool set up with them? there must be some european MS guys thinking the same thing as you.

Jaz, I COMPLETELY AGREE! Another example of how the good efforts in one section/area of  MS are undermined by a complete lack of foresight in another. Europe only ever seems to get the crumbs that MS are prepared to giveaway

DanTheMan wrote:

Unfortunately, I then realized that I'm not eligible due to the fact that I am employed by a company that is a Certified Partner

I've watched a few videos so far- they're good- well worth it!

DanTheMan wrote:

I really like MS products, especially the developer tools, but this and other occurences in the past while have me wishing there was a viable alternative.

Yggdrasil wrote:



DanTheMan wrote: I really like MS products, especially the developer tools, but this and other occurences in the past while have me wishing there was a viable alternative.

What, wait, are you actually saying Microsoft are in the WRONG here because they're giving free gifts worth hundreds of dollars each to hundreds or thousands of people, but because you happen to not be eligible then they're evil again?

Heck, I'll watch a few webcasts for some free goodies, but which to choose, Office 2007 or Vista Biz?

tferrero wrote:

Hello

I spent 5 hours yesterday trying to get in on this deal and successfully watched all three videos.  I'm sure you have had many people inquire about this, but all three said pending.  I only went with the free vista upgrade given the difficulty getting to both.

now vsd.powertogether.com seems to be totally down so I can't view the status of my authentication.  Will I be lost in translation or is there a way around this.

Again, I know you probably have thousands asking the same thing.  I will patiently await a response.  I'd be more than happy to call somewhere for verification as I really don't want to see that time wasted. 

Thank you for your time

Tony

Mark Brown wrote:

Hey guys, getting close here on selling out of Vista. You may have only an hour or less left.

Congrats to all you who made it through the registration and webcasts for Vista and Office. Your status should get updated sometime this evening so be patient. The email servers are probably working overtime right now as well to let you know that you've qualified so sit tight.

Regards,
Mark

davidng150 wrote:

You may be in luck if you've already registered; here's what the site says:

Already Registered? If you have already registered for the Vista Campaign, selected a gift and are eligible to receive the free gift, please continue to watch your webcasts to complete the requirements for your free Windows Vista Business.

Martog wrote:

It takes a long time for them to update. I took mine about awhole 24h from the time they went to pending to say completed.

So Mark, I take it there is going to be an email sent saying you were at least eligible for the free gift or do we just have to sit and wait to see if we are if the gift comes or not.

Mark Brown wrote:

Hey guys, getting close here on selling out of Vista. You may have only an hour or less left.

Congrats to all you who made it through the registration and webcasts for Vista and Office. Your status should get updated sometime this evening so be patient. The email servers are probably working overtime right now as well to let you know that you've qualified so sit tight.

Regards,
Mark

davidng150 wrote:

Okay, so a couple of minutes ago when I was on the Power Together site, two of my three webcasts had a status of 'completed' (the other was still 'in progress'). Now, after going on the site again, I suddenly noticed that all three now had the status of 'in progress'! What should I do now? Is this just a server problem or will I have to watch all of the webcasts again (I'm hoping that it's just a server problem and that all three will turn back into 'completed')?

Already Registered? If you have already registered for the Vista Campaign, selected a gift and are eligible to receive the free gift, please continue to watch your webcasts to complete the requirements for your free Windows Vista Business.

RickH wrote:

You think the fact that we're all hammering the F5 keys and trying to watch more webcasts might be part of the problem? 

paste120 wrote:

....   I DONT NEED NEW HAIR!

Mark Brown wrote:

Hey guys, getting close here on selling out of Vista. You may have only an hour or less left.

Congrats to all you who made it through the registration and webcasts for Vista and Office. Your status should get updated sometime this evening so be patient. The email servers are probably working overtime right now as well to let you know that you've qualified so sit tight.

Regards,
Mark

Great promotion!

Any chance the offer for Windows Vista will be extended? Sold out in 48 hours? What is this, a rock concert?

Sidicas wrote:



Well I completed my requirements for Vista and according to the site I should be getting a copy... though I haven't gotten any e-mail or anything
I'd just like to ramble a little bit about this..

I think it would have been much better if there was a little quiz at the end of each of the webcast that needed to be filled out.. And you had to get 6 out of 10 questions right for it to be credited... That way people couldn't just start it up, set their volume to minimum and then surf the web or chat on IMs instead of actually watching the webcast..  That way people who are really genuinely interested are not the ones with the fastest with the refresh button or patient with clicking "play" over and over on media player until it finally connnects to the stream.  Since it "sold out" so fast there is no doubt that there were a lot of people who were genuinely interested in learning about Vista who never got a chance..

Secondly, it seems to me that the Microsoft is not really encouraging the next generation of developers ( CS students like me) to develop  Microsoft software. I KNOW there is the MSDN Academic Alliance, but the reason why a lot of us program for Linux is because when we look at the Linux developer community such as (www.wiili.org) we are greeted with open arms, and they're asking for help, and anybody who helps gets a lot of respect... And it always seems that Microsoft has this business oriented attitude.. that if we don't work for a business then Microsoft just doesn't care at all... They don't want to deal with you on an individual basis.
Which is why when we're learning how to code.. We usually end up joining the Linux community.. When I first started writing software I was like 12 or 13 years old and I was using Microsoft Visual Basic 5.0 Learning Edition... But when I got into college, I immediately switched to Linux and became part of the Linux community.. Until the fourth year of college where one of my favorite teachers taught an incredibly awesome class in Managed DirectX9. Which I loved very much and that fact combined with the MSDNAA program sent me towards programming for Windows again..
 
I think what Microsoft really needs to do now.. Is take those "Express" line of developer products and push them towards the younger generation of future developers.. See what their doing.. Making mods for games, developing XHTML/CSS websites, etc...
I still think Visual Basic Learning Edition (complete with Video and Audio tutorials).. Was one of the best ways to do this.. Microsoft needs to KNOW what students have been learning in high school and provide some way of getting them from where they are as students to where they want to be... In college, it's easy, just take Computer Science classes.. But in many high schools, those classes aren't available.. And the little students are looking for careers in the computer industry and often don't know where to begin... They look at Microsoft's website and it's all so.. professional.. Like everything is built for Business applications... Only in the Linux community are students taught cool ways to use what they have learned in school immediately applyable to nifty little helpful applications. Which the student puts on a disk and knows that they'll probably use it again someday..

You really need to make a way so that high school students can see a clear path on to get to where they want to be by using Microsoft Developer tools. The students feel so lost sometimes and that is why you're losing some of them to the Linux community..

Of course this is all just from my experience.. And I certainly can't speak for everybody.. But for many years I was a total 100% real Debian GNU/Linux zealot because I always saw the path from where I was to where I wanted to be (OpenGL programming).. Of course I followed that path and now instead I'm doing DirectX.. But for the most part, I owe much to the Linux community for helping me get here.. And for them showing me how important getting good grades in Math was...

(ok, ranting over)

LrngToFly wrote:

I watched my three videos under Vista.  Last night all three had switched from "Pending" to "Completed".  But alas, I have not received any email.  So I take it I didn't make it in time?

davidng150 wrote:

What's the current supply status on Office 2007? Are there still supplies left for those whose webcasts are still on "Pending"?

mcampbell wrote:

I just registered earlier to today and have already watched one webcast, and the status said pending. Now when I'm logged In I get the sold out Message and I no longer see "Pending" on my webcast that I watched now all I see is "Watch Webcast" when I already watched it. I'm also not able to edit my profile. Is it the site? It's been broken almost all day today. Are I'm just out of Luck?

mcampbell wrote:

alright, now I'm unable to view any webcasts without registering again, which I already did. When I go to register I now get: "I want to learn about Vista" radio button instead of both "Send me the Free gift" and the other one. I'm using the same passport account i used before when i first registered, and now it's asking me to register again.

Martog wrote:

It takes a long time for them to update. I took mine about awhole 24h from the time they went to pending to say completed.

So Mark, I take it there is going to be an email sent saying you were at least eligible for the free gift or do we just have to sit and wait to see if we are if the gift comes or not.

davidng150 wrote:

Okay, so a couple of minutes ago when I was on the Power Together site, two of my three webcasts had a status of 'completed' (the other was still 'in progress'). Now, after going on the site again, I suddenly noticed that all three now had the status of 'in progress'! What should I do now? Is this just a server problem or will I have to watch all of the webcasts again (I'm hoping that it's just a server problem and that all three will turn back into 'completed')?

Mark Brown wrote:



davidng150 wrote:What's the current supply status on Office 2007? Are there still supplies left for those whose webcasts are still on "Pending"?

Yes, the limit is based upon registration not that you completed the webcasts or vlabs.

BinaryCrusader wrote:


Some of us never got a chance at all
...
I don't suppose this offer will ever come again?

Did I mention how terribly disappointing it was to be taunted with a chance to get to try software development on Windows Vista for almost a week and then when the site finally works to be told I missed out?

johnny hotsauce wrote:



Sidicas wrote:  I think what Microsoft really needs to do now.. Is take those "Express" line of developer products and push them towards the younger generation of future developers.. See what their doing.. Making mods for games, developing XHTML/CSS websites, etc...

I'd actually have to say that was a good, intuituive and legitimate rant.

aatrek` wrote:

Mark -

I completed the Vista program, and I just found out that my company is part of the Microsoft Open Value License Program,  which I guess is related to purchasing products at a discount or something.

Will this disqualify me from being eligible for Vista, since it's not really a Microsoft Partner, and has nothing to do with development or MSDN?

Mark Brown wrote:



No that shouldn't disqualify you. In fact, you are a key part of the audience I'm trying to get to through this campaign.

Regards,
Mark

Mark Brown wrote:



mcampbell wrote: I just registered earlier to today and have already watched one webcast, and the status said pending. Now when I'm logged In I get the sold out Message and I no longer see "Pending" on my webcast that I watched now all I see is "Watch Webcast" when I already watched it. I'm also not able to edit my profile. Is it the site? It's been broken almost all day today. Are I'm just out of Luck?

You should be fine. There is a support address on that site for things like . I'd contact them and let them know.

pathfinder wrote:



johnny hotsauce wrote:  Sidicas wrote:  I think what Microsoft really needs to do now.. Is take those "Express" line of developer products and push them towards the younger generation of future developers.. See what their doing.. Making mods for games, developing XHTML/CSS websites, etc... I'd actually have to say that was a good, intuituive and legitimate rant.

Are you kidding me?  All of their develpment products have a free counterpart which are almost always used at evangilist events and in videos which are free to anyone who wants.

I have used these products to start my ISV and then upgraded to paid products when I started making money.

In addition Microsoft is releasing XNA for free.  How much more can they get involved in our generation than that? 

I have both Linux and Windows servers and am active in both communities.  Sometimes I don't always feel welcome in the Linux groups because I am in the business because I like technology and I like making money.

tahoejeff wrote:

carl, try this: https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx

Hi. I have watched all three videos for Vista but I have never received any email after I watch each of them. Should I have? When I log in and go into the “My Stuff” tab here’s what it says:

Thanks for registering to participate in our Windows Vista Webcast Series. Below, you will find a summary of the Webcast(s) you’ve registered for.

If you’re joining us for a Windows Vista Webcast, please note that each live Webcast is a live event – space will fill up quickly. Make sure to log on early to ensure your spot. You will receive an e-mail 30 minutes before each live Webcast begins to remind you to tune in. But if a development crisis pops up, don’t worry. Each live Webcast will be available on-demand 24 hours after its broadcast.

Don’t forget that after you’ve watched three Windows Vista Webcasts, you will receive a free, full-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business.
* Your gift will ship within 6-8 weeks after Windows Vista is released to manufacturing.

Note: You must use Internet Explorer 6 or higher to view the webcasts.

Then in the middle it shows the 4 videos I watched,

and at the end of the page it says:

Shipping Info Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Windows Vista. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts to further your skills?

XXXXXXXXX

XXXXXXXXXXX

Am I all set? Thanks for all of your help!

Mark Brown wrote:



mcampbell wrote: alright, now I'm unable to view any webcasts without registering again, which I already did. When I go to register I now get: "I want to learn about Vista" radio button instead of both "Send me the Free gift" and the other one. I'm using the same passport account i used before when i first registered, and now it's asking me to register again.

I'll send this over to the support folks to sort out and have them contact you. sorry about that.

carl669 wrote:



tahoejeff wrote: carl, try this: https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx

tried that already with no luck .  the office site seems to be working fine,  but i only registered for vista.

guess i'll just have to keep checking back.

Mark Schieldrop wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  mcampbell wrote: alright, now I'm unable to view any webcasts without registering again, which I already did. When I go to register I now get: "I want to learn about Vista" radio button instead of both "Send me the Free gift" and the other one. I'm using the same passport account i used before when i first registered, and now it's asking me to register again. I'll send this over to the support folks to sort out and have them contact you. sorry about that.

I had the exact same problem. I accidentially registered again and now where it says where my gift will be shipped to, there is a blank spot with a link to "details" which links back to my profile. On the Office portion of the promotion, my profile is normal. I've been using the same passport all along. I can SEE my vidoes which have completed and are pending, but I'm not sure if my post-sold out situation where it felt like I was re-registering wiped out something in my profile that will disqualify me. Help!

Thanks

Cybermagellan wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  davidng150 wrote: What's the current supply status on Office 2007? Are there still supplies left for those whose webcasts are still on "Pending"? Yes, the limit is based upon registration not that you completed the webcasts or vlabs.

IF you were able to register

Mark Brown wrote:



carl669 wrote:  tahoejeff wrote: carl, try this: https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx tried that already with no luck .  the office site seems to be working fine,  but i only registered for vista. guess i'll just have to keep checking back.

You should only just need to click on the Passport/Live login thing on the left side of the page.

carl669 wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  carl669 wrote:  tahoejeff wrote: carl, try this: https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx tried that already with no luck .  the office site seems to be working fine,  but i only registered for vista. guess i'll just have to keep checking back. You should only just need to click on the Passport/Live login thing on the left side of the page.

login thing on the left side of the vsd.powertogether.com page?  problem is, I can't even get to that page.  keep getting "cannot display".  Actually, I can't get to any page within vsd.powertogether.com.

and there's no login option on the main www.powertogether.com page.

tahoejeff wrote:

any clue if these videos will be available after this promotion is done? i kind of half listened to a couple, and would like to spend more time with them. i realize i could download them, but would rather not if they will continue to be available.

Mark Brown wrote:



carl669 wrote:  Mark Brown wrote:  carl669 wrote:  tahoejeff wrote: carl, try this: https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx tried that already with no luck .  the office site seems to be working fine,  but i only registered for vista. guess i'll just have to keep checking back. You should only just need to click on the Passport/Live login thing on the left side of the page. login thing on the left side of the vsd.powertogether.com page?  problem is, I can't even get to that page.  keep getting "cannot display".  Actually, I can't get to any page within vsd.powertogether.com. and there's no login option on the main www.powertogether.com page.

I just went there and had no problem clicking on the sold out link for vista on the home page to https://vsd.powertogether.com/Campaign.aspx then clicked on the Passport Login link on the left side.

Strange you're having problems there.

 “Thanks for registering to participate in our Microsoft Windows Vista Webcast Series. Below, you will find a summary of the Webcast(s) you've registered for.”

With the video title links listed below.

Should I watch them again (from the links attached to the email) to be safe because I never received an email after I watch the video and took the survey?
Thanks again for your help!
Scotty

asfahs wrote:



Mark,
I watch the videos a few days ago and it says "complete" next to each of them and I just now received an email saying:

 “Thanks for registering to participate in our Microsoft Windows Vista Webcast Series. Below, you will find a summary of the Webcast(s) you've registered for.”

With the video title links listed below.

Should I watch them again (from the links attached to the email) to be safe because I never received an email after I watch the video and took the survey?
Thanks again for your help!
Scotty

aatrek` wrote:

Here's what the VISTA confirmation email looks like, if anybody's interested:

BTW, Giving me free Vista and Office is going to sell you a few copies, I promise.

~Matt

Darbacour wrote:

3. Everyone:
Any Gamers here?  What are ya all playing? 

Sidicas wrote:



Darbacour wrote: 3. Everyone: Any Gamers here?  What are ya all playing?

Hey ho!!  Trying to get my hands on Vista so I can get a jump start into DirectX 10 programming.  Working on my graduation project (A game I'm writing in DirectX 9 that teaches Japanese, Korean, and Chinese vocabulary from open source dictionaries (cedict, edict, etc.))

And also studying for my other classes... I should graduate this semester if I ever get all my homework done

2nd to Vista, I've been wanting to get my hands on the Nintendo Wii..  The Wiimote is a standardized bluetooth device and is detected by windows.. But there are no drivers.. So maybe I'll have to write my own or something.... I know the Linux community is already making great progress on their drivers for the Wiimote.. Imagine using Windows with that thing on a big projector screen!! Or writing DirectX games to use it... Totally awesome...

Looking forward to getting Okami and Final Fantasy XII for the PS2 this Christmas...

Shipping Info
Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Windows Vista. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts to further your skills?

JeremyE wrote:

Shipping Info
Congratulations! You’ve completed the number of Webcasts required to receive a free, fully-licensed copy of Windows Vista Business. Once we’ve confirmed that you meet the eligibility requirements stated in the offer details below we will ship your gift within 6-8 weeks of the release to manufacturing of Windows Vista. While you’re waiting, why not check out additional Webcasts to further your skills?

Matt_Rajca wrote:



Anyone received their copy yet? Im still waiting for an email. I have 3 completes.

~Matt

Matt_Rajca wrote:

Do we download Office 2007 or do they ship it?

Mr.Baggins wrote:

Really? Wow! Now I'm a little worried I aint getting it as I had mine all completed a few days ago too. Would you mind doing a copy/paste of what that congrats email look like?

Darbacour wrote:

It's not fair that it's not open to Partners but it's not fair I took a Vista away from someone entitled to it by employing my Non-Partner friend to accept it for me

carl669 wrote:

just remoted into my machine at home and i can get to the page with no problem.  Seems to be something at work that is messing with it.  oh well...i'll just watch at home.

You tried to access the address https://vsd.powertogether.com/, which is currently unavailable. Please make sure that the Web address (URL) is correctly spelled and punctuated, then try reloading the page.

Secure connection: fatal error (40)

Failed to connect to server.

I've been reconnecting my DSL modem, but it keeps giving me the same IP address..
So I'm giving up for now..

Problem didn't start happening until yesterday (Friday) morning.
The office site (OSD) still works fine, but all the good videos are on the Vista site (VSD).

[EDIT]
IT works!!! Sunday (Dec. 3rd) morning!

Sidicas wrote:



Darbacour wrote: It's not fair that it's not open to Partners but it's not fair I took a Vista away from someone entitled to it by employing my Non-Partner friend to accept it for me

If you're going to use it yourself, then I think you deserve it... Since the Vista giveaways hit the front page of many news sites I'm sure there will be many people who came here that got their Vista and planned on selling it on eBay or something.. (Like the rush to get PS3s.. Most people who wanted to play never got one, those who got one were the ones who wanted to make money by selling it at 2-3x the retail price on eBay to those who really wanted to play it)

Darbacour wrote:


If you doubt me .....Please name the last time Microsoft let you down.

Outlaw wrote:



Darbacour wrote:  If you doubt me .....Please name the last time Microsoft let you down.

Windows ME?

Darbacour wrote:

I received the confirmation 2 days ago, but  if I get it I feel I got my Vista through less than honest means. 

It's not fair that it's not open to Partners but it's not fair I took a Vista away from someone entitled to it by employing my Non-Partner friend to accept it for me

I.E. I signed up as my best friend  who is NOT an MS partner and attempted to watch some videos.  Didn't get to view video ONE due to server issues yet I got credited for viewing them....

I have since viewed about 5 or 6 videos.

If  Mark tells me I shouldn't get it and I do get it I feel complled to give it to someone who would have qualified but couldn't get in.

I hope I don't have to but I will consider buying this O/S if I have no alternatives.

If Mark detemines I shouldn't get a Free Vista.....tell me why  I should give it to.......................YOU

Matt_Rajca wrote:

Do we download Office 2007 or do they ship it?

aatrek` wrote:



Mark, how will Office / Vista be distributed? Will we get an Office download, then get a key in the mail; and Vista on DVD?

Sidicas wrote:



Mark Brown wrote:  Matt_Rajca wrote: Do we download Office 2007 or do they ship it? Vista will ship on a physical disc. Office will be as a download. The reason they are different is that the Office folks are partially experimenting with download as a way to fulfill product.

I don't like it, but I won't fight it... I  don't have a DVD burner so I hope they are not DVD isos.

Sidicas wrote:


I don't like it, but I won't fight it... I  don't have a DVD burner so I hope they are not DVD isos.

Mark Brown wrote:



Matt_Rajca wrote: Do we download Office 2007 or do they ship it?

Vista will ship on a physical disc. Office will be as a download. The reason they are different is that the Office folks are partially experimenting with download as a way to fulfill product.

As I did this for my personal enrichment and not as a benefit to the company nor do I have access to the MSDN license with work.

I asked our master of all things MS and was told we didn't have one when I was pressing to get a copy so I could install Vista for testing IE 7 on that platform back in Feb .

Based on this will I be ineligible for the gifts? [7]

nixr wrote:

Mark, First off let me thank you for taking the time to answer questions. These webcasts are really great and I look foward to watching more of them as time allows. One thing I noticed is that as of Friday the website informs me that I have earned the free gifts but I have not received an email confirming this nor have I received anything regarding tax liability. I am just curious if there is still a delay reulting from the heavy server load experienced last week or if there is a problem with my eligibility.

Thanks in advance.

nixr

AlkalineProdigy wrote:

When we get the office will it be just like the retail box with manuals and inserts but minus the disk or will it just be a card with a cd key on it and a url.

Mark Brown wrote:



nixr wrote: Mark, First off let me thank you for taking the time to answer questions. These webcasts are really great and I look foward to watching more of them as time allows. One thing I noticed is that as of Friday the website informs me that I have earned the free gifts but I have not received an email confirming this nor have I received anything regarding tax liability. I am just curious if there is still a delay reulting from the heavy server load experienced last week or if there is a problem with my eligibility. Thanks in advance. nixr

We haven't sent the fulfillment emails out yet. We won't start sending those out until we are ready to begin shipping and that will be a few weeks so if you're qualified you're good to go. Just sit back and enjoy some more webcasts and we'll get those out here as we can.

regards,
mark

Mark Schieldrop wrote:



Sidicas wrote: I don't like it, but I won't fight it... I  don't have a DVD burner so I hope they are not DVD isos.

Well, if it ends up being a DVD iso, you now have a good reason to get one. They're pretty cheap nowadays. Another option will be to throw it on a 1GB memory stick and burn it at a friend's house.

tjfear wrote:



I finished all my videos, saw the screen that said "completed" next to all the ones I watched, but now I can not load that page.  I can only get to poweredtogether.com, and anything else I click takes me to a "Page Can not Be Displayed" error. 

c9chris wrote:

Ideally to me 64 would "just work" without driver / hardware /
software incompatibilities, but I don't think that's realistic to expect
for the next couple of years.  So for a user that has had a
64-bit ready system with the exception of some occasionally used
pieces of 64-incompatible SW and HW, what're the options?

c9chris wrote:

d) I've heard that the Vista betas had some user controllable
mechanisms to boot the system in a fully usable mode
which allowed installation / use of unsigned device drivers on
Vista64.  For those of us doing experimental driver development
or using legacy unsigned drivers, do Vista RTM versions of 64 and
32 bit provide easy ways to allow end users to install/run
in a normal system environment unsigned drivers if they so choose?

c9chris wrote:

I'm optimistic about finally being able to run 64 bit, but it seems
like a bit of a field of potential landmines with a lot of conflicting
information about the work-arounds and potential problems / options!

Darbacour wrote:

2.To the Community:
I've really enjoyed checking out this website and lurking through your forums the past few days....  Would you all mind if I participated here even though I'm a dumb blonde female, not a coder , not even very good at writing HTML anymore?  It seems like a really cool community but I don't want to intrude if this is only for coders/programmers.

Sidicas wrote:

did anyone see the "Building Peer to Peer Applications" webcast? It is showing up in my "Your Stuff" page twice, one with an "On Demand Webcast" logo and again with a "Live Webcast" logo.  When I click on the live webcast, it says it is over and should be available within 24 hrs.. But it has been 48 hours and if I click on either the Live Webcast it redirects me to the OnDemand Webcast... From there I get an error "The requested recording could not be viewed. The recording ID or password may be incorrect. "  I haven't been able to watch this yet, and it is one of the ones I really wanted to see.

KRomeleoN wrote:

Mark,


Will we be notified when this ships out? Or will it just show up on my front porch one day?


I'd really like to get cracking with Vista Business and my company doesnt have msdn accounts.

The sooner I can get it, the sooner I can reccommend the upgrades.


- K

ljuvefreya wrote:



Darbacour wrote: 2.To the Community: I've really enjoyed checking out this website and lurking through your forums the past few days....  Would you all mind if I participated here even though I'm a dumb blonde female, not a coder , not even very good at writing HTML anymore?  It seems like a really cool community but I don't want to intrude if this is only for coders/programmers.

Hia

Being a blonde female non-developer myself and not having been chased out yet, I would say that you'll be safe.

*waves*
I'm btw working for an MS Gold Partner and holds MCP on XP, with my 70-290 exam on friday this week... *crosses fingers*

jedimasterk wrote:

Not going to complain. It's a nice gesture by MS. But it would have been nice to get an Office 2007 cd/dvd like Vista Business. Could put both together in nice new dual cd/dvd case. Great matching set. Since MS pressed cd/dvd's have neat looking logos on the cd/dvd's. Just a thought!. .

Novaoblivion wrote:

I dont want to be annoying (I am grateful for a free copy of Vista ), but I dont suppose you guys would consider sending us a key and an ISO download link before the CD shows up? I am still running RC2 and would like to upgrade to RTM . Thanks!

caffeineHi wrote:

I haven't gotten the request for completing the Vista surveys yet. Is this bad?

Mark Brown wrote:



caffeineHi wrote: I haven't gotten the request for completing the Vista surveys yet. Is this bad?

You should get an email saying that you have completed the content, but we're not sending emails out about the surveys themselves.

Mark Brown wrote:



There is no mechanism to provide the bits over the wire outside of the regular volume licensing or MSDN means.

Sorry, wish we could.

jedimasterk wrote:

Does Office 2007 Pro come as a DVD iso or CD iso.  I want to get some printable CD's or DVD's for my printer to make a nice logo on the disc itself . But I don't want to get both. Their not cheap. Thanks.

Dan400Man wrote:



jedimasterk wrote: Does Office 2007 Pro come as a DVD iso or CD iso.  I want to get some printable CD's or DVD's for my printer to make a nice logo on the disc itself . But I don't want to get both. Their not cheap. Thanks.

Pretty sure I heard Office Pro will be a DVD-sized ISO, but that might'a just been hearsay.  (Just like my comment!)

EDIT:  Just checked another forum:
" Office 2007 is Pro Plus (not sure the difference between Pro and Pro Plus) is 457MB."
So, maybe it does fit on a CD.

Guess you'd better wait until you download it.

Dan400Man wrote:



jedimasterk wrote:Does Office 2007 Pro come as a DVD iso or CD iso.  I want to get some printable CD's or DVD's for my printer to make a nice logo on the disc itself . But I don't want to get both. Their not cheap. Thanks.

Pretty sure I heard Office Pro will be a DVD-sized ISO, but that might'a just been hearsay.  (Just like my comment!)

EDIT:  Just checked another forum:
" Office 2007 is Pro Plus (not sure the difference between Pro and Pro Plus) is 457MB."
So, maybe it does fit on a CD.

Guess you'd better wait until you download it.

JD

awp wrote:

I was wondering if we get the Vista Business, what will be the upgrade price thru the new upgrading functionality in Vista to get to the Ultimate edition?

Since I will be using this on my home computer (my business will not allow me to install it at work unless they actually get a contract for the entire business), I'd like to also have the Windows Media Center functionality. I assume it won't let me "downgrade" to the Home Premium edition.

So what will be my options? Just to upgrade to Ultimate? What will the upgrade pricing be like - just the difference between the retail prices?

Thanks!

awp wrote:

I was wondering if we get the Vista Business, what will be the upgrade price thru the new upgrading functionality in Vista to get to the Ultimate edition?

Since I will be using this on my home computer (my business will not allow me to install it at work unless they actually get a contract for the entire business), I'd like to also have the Windows Media Center functionality. I assume it won't let me "downgrade" to the Home Premium edition.

So what will be my options? Just to upgrade to Ultimate? What will the upgrade pricing be like - just the difference between the retail prices?

Thanks!

Outlaw wrote:

the power together website says we will receive our fully licensed copies of windows vista/office 2007 six to eight weeks after the release to manufacturing.  vista was rtm on november 8.  office was rtm on november 6.  it's been very nearly 8 weeks with nary a peep about this from my inbox.

mark, i know you want to get all of us the best christmas present of all; telling us that our copies of everything shipped.  ...please?

Thadius wrote:

I'm not a person to be in a big rush.  It would be kind of cool for one of the two to arrive before the 14th...  when I go on a month long trip overseas.  But such is always my luck.  Thanks microsoft either way for running this (granted I actually get one...)

Mark Brown wrote:

btw, you should be able to get Ultimate at an upgrade price through WAU. Not sure what the details are on that. Stay tuned to news from us and you should get some info on this then.

regards,
mark

iggy73 wrote:



Mark Brown wrote: btw, you should be able to get Ultimate at an upgrade price through WAU. Not sure what the details are on that. Stay tuned to news from us and you should get some info on this then. regards, mark

Mark --

Hey there, Happy New Year, and Thanks!  Having said all that, I just wanted to reply to this post earlier and see if we might have any more info on potential upgrade paths, expected ship dates, etc.  Oh... and of course to bump the thread.



Thanks again for everything!

dannyallen34 wrote:

http://vsd.powertogether.com/ is down. Is it possible that it is being updated with shipping information?

Mark Brown wrote:


People getting Vista will get more information on upgrade paths when you get the DVD.

I can't give you an exact date on when exactly you'll get this. I promise it will be very very soon. I can't give you an exact date. Please just be patient.

Thanks guys.

Mark Brown wrote:



dannyallen34 wrote: http://vsd.powertogether.com/ is down. Is it possible that it is being updated with shipping information?

hmm, strange. I'll check with the support team.

Thanks for letting me know.

Sidicas wrote:



Mark Brown wrote: dannyallen34 wrote: http://vsd.powertogether.com/ is down. Is it possible that it is being updated with shipping information? hmm, strange. I'll check with the support team. Thanks for letting me know.

https://vsd.powertogether.com/ works for me..

mikeda2 wrote:

Hey mark, one of my friends wanted me to ask, what happens if they signed up for both but no longer which to get both (tax)? Does one take priority over the other as in one ships then to get the other must give the additional info, or whats the deal?

Outlaw wrote:

no, they sold out of copies long ago.  sorry.

CLASS wrote:

excellent work! can you confirm if we are getting the futuristic plastic casing with a hologram disc? Or just a paper back copy in a envelope? thanks!

Mark Brown wrote:



caffeineHi wrote:I haven't gotten the request for completing the Vista surveys yet. Is this bad?

You should get an email saying that you have completed the content, but we're not sending emails out about the surveys themselves.

If you have questions about your status visit, https://vsd.powertogether.com/Contact.aspx to find the email address to ask directly.

Regards,
Mark

ultimaterobert wrote:


I have sent three emails to the addresses available on that page and have yet to receive a response from any of them (this was at least a month ago).  I am eligible to receive both gifts and I want to know where you are supposed to get the W-9 to fill out.

idividebyzero wrote:

Full copy.

Im thinking that its going to be an OEM package with a retail serial/license. It would be cool to get the retail package but I wouldnt be disapointed if its just a cd sleeve with a warranty.

mikeda2 wrote:

Hey mark, one of my friends wanted me to ask, what happens if they signed up for both but no longer which to get both (tax)? Does one take priority over the other as in one ships then to get the other must give the additional info, or whats the deal?

galaxy121 wrote:

Hmm this question is Mark Brown. First of all, Thank you for this promotions. I registered for the site around the first day that it first started. Now after that,  because of the numerous traffic towards the site, I couldnt complete the webcasts. After about 3 days, I had numerous internet problems for a week, then I had to travel to London for vacation until New Year's day which is when I completed the webcasts themselves.



Now, I do get the three completed icons on my webcasts but I want to ask, since it was about 35 days from registration (It says 30 days in the rules of the offer), am I still able to get Vista ?

Thanks for the consideration.

Mark Brown wrote:

btw, everyone.

We should be shipping late this week and early next week.

Apologies for the delay. We had an issue over the holidays and with most everyone out we had to wait until people returned to get resolved.

So sit tight. We're putting them together and slapping shipping labels on 'em folks

CLASS wrote:

excellent. At least we get holograms! I love those discs! ^_^

CLASS wrote:

excellent. At least we get holograms! I love those discs! ^_^

fdisk wrote:



CLASS wrote:excellent. At least we get holograms! I love those discs! ^_^

Do you just get the disc and a jewel case, or do you guys get full blown Vista boxes (like the kind they sell in the store)?

They could be collector's items some day.

Mark Brown wrote:

btw, everyone.

We should be shipping late this week and early next week.

Apologies for the delay. We had an issue over the holidays and with most everyone out we had to wait until people returned to get resolved.

So sit tight. We're putting them together and slapping shipping labels on 'em folks

XxDesmus_MODxX wrote:



ultimaterobert wrote: I have sent three emails to the addresses available on that page and have yet to receive a response from any of them (this was at least a month ago).  I am eligible to receive both gifts and I want to know where you are supposed to get the W-9 to fill out.

If I might answer this (for the 10th time).

In the FAQ of the site it clearly states that  (assuming you qualified for that). If you're only receiving one gift then you will not have to fill out the W-9 form.

As many other people have pointed out, you very likely will not end up having to pay anything in taxes on these gifts because the taxable gift amount starts at $5,000.

<-- Goes back to patiently waiting.

I completed the 3 webcasts for both Vista and Office 2007 2 days after the website was online.

I wrote to the customer support and I was told I would be receiving a confirmation email saying I was to receive both Vista and Office within two weeks.  That was three weeks.  I wrote to support again but have not received a response.

Could you please tell me what's going on?  Will I receive my free copies?

It would be very nice if you help me out!

Thanks

Candice

tosh9i wrote:

You can relax, no one has received an email response (confirmation email), yet.

You've Earned Your Office Series Gift

Dear (redacted):

Congratulations.You've learned how to leverage the 2007 Microsoft Office system to enable to workers to get connected to the information they need. And now your free, full-licensed copy of the Microsoft Office Professional 2007 is on its way.

Please be patient. We cannot ship your gift until Microsoft Office Professional 2007 is released to manufacturing. Your free software should arrive in six to eight weeks after RTM. If it doesn't arrive after eight weeks, please contact a customer service representative at Windows Vista and Office Kit Order Admin. Be sure to have your confirmation number (redacted) on hand.

cadaeic wrote:



tosh9i wrote:You can relax, no one has received an email response (confirmation email), yet.

I just got a little surprise in my inbox:

You've Earned Your Office Series Gift

Dear (redacted):

Congratulations.You've learned how to leverage the 2007 Microsoft Office system to enable to workers to get connected to the information they need. And now your free, full-licensed copy of the Microsoft Office Professional 2007 is on its way.

Please be patient. We cannot ship your gift until Microsoft Office Professional 2007 is released to manufacturing. Your free software should arrive in six to eight weeks after RTM. If it doesn't arrive after eight weeks, please contact a customer service representative at Windows Vista and Office Kit Order Admin. Be sure to have your confirmation number (redacted) on hand.

ultimaterobert wrote:



XxDesmus_MODxX wrote: ultimaterobert wrote: I have sent three emails to the addresses available on that page and have yet to receive a response from any of them (this was at least a month ago).  I am eligible to receive both gifts and I want to know where you are supposed to get the W-9 to fill out. If I might answer this (for the 10th time). In the FAQ of the site it clearly states that  (assuming you qualified for that). If you're only receiving one gift then you will not have to fill out the W-9 form. As many other people have pointed out, you very likely will not end up having to pay anything in taxes on these gifts because the taxable gift amount starts at $5,000. <-- Goes back to patiently waiting.

I don't know what FAQ you've been reading, but the one I'm looking at (https://vsd.powertogether.com/Contact.aspx) clearly states:

IRS rules require that any gift over $600 is taxable which requires us to collect W9 information from participants and to file a 1099 with the IRS for the value of both products. This is why you received an email that directed you to a secure website to provide that information and we must receive it before shipping your product.

How does receiving an email to "direct you to a secure website to provide that information" translate into "they will send you the first item and then depending on your eligibility they will send you the W-9 form before you receive the second gift" ?

Thanks

Candice

Edit: I just got the Vista email too.

Spikecool47 wrote:

Which shipping company are you going to use to ship the disc's

Is it Postal, Fedex, UPS or DHl?

beerbal wrote:

I did get two emails. But I am a bit suspicious. One of the email had a link that went to a website called order-9.com. Where you are supposed to fill out W-9 information.

Oh the website looks pretty professional and has Microsoft logos all over it, but do a domain name lookup and it is registered to Catalysis. It is based in Seattle, WA.

So, am I paranoid or is this something that we need to be wary of?

Mark, your call.

[Edit]
Okay so the link in the email itself seems to bounce off microsoft.com as in:
http://response.microsoft.com/P/v3/r.asp?bigstringhere&pfx0=http://www.windowsvistaoffice2007w-9.com

this means that Microsoft is atleast aware of this. Doing a whois on http://www.windowsvistaoffice2007w-9.com gave the same information as the order-9.com site.
[/Edit]

Mark, should I email Customer support?

ultimaterobert wrote:

Just received the Office 2007 email that some others seem to be getting. Includes the following:

If you are eligible for and have registered to receive both the Windows Vista Business offer and Microsoft Office Professional 2007 offer, you must complete a W-9 (Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and Certification) form. To make this easier, go to this online form (link removed) and fax or mail the completed form using the information provided. This form must be completed, returned and documented before the second gift can be shipped. Taxes, if any, are the sole responsibility of the recipient.

portnoy wrote:

Woopie! I just got my confirmation email. Office 2007 on its way. Give or take 6 to 8 weeks.

Buckskin wrote:

I am scared to send in SSN without knowing it is secure.

Just sent e-mail to Microsoft asking how they will ensure security of our SSN and will post response when it arrives.

c9chris wrote:


e) Not to be nit-picky, but just a point of feedback, I'd have found
it much more convenient to do the W9 via SCAN & EMAIL vs.
 FAX since to me it seems like EMAIL is much more
convenient and reliable and modern than FAX, and it seems like
it took forever to get the FAX to go through to the number...

trueheart78 wrote:

Is there a way to know which product you will get first if you decide to only want one item shipped, or are both being delayed until a W9 shows up?

Also, here's a couple simple questions for the W9'ers:
1) Am I exempt from backup withholding?
2) Do I sign on Part 2 (certification),

 
I'm an independent contractor working in web application development.

recountryman wrote:



trueheart78 wrote:Is there a way to know which product you will get first if you decide to only want one item shipped, or are both being delayed until a W9 shows up? Also, here's a couple simple questions for the W9'ers: 1) Am I exempt from backup withholding? 2) Do I sign on Part 2 (certification), I'm an independent contractor working in web application development.

Thought I read a few pages back that if you selected both Vista and Office that Vista first, then Office would be sent after the W9 form is recieved. But don't think it was ever confirmed. I'm also sure I read else where (getting old memory isn't what it was 20 years ago) that it also depends upon which was completed first...dang after re reading what I wrote I don't know either now!

Mark Brown wrote:



mikeda2 wrote:Hey mark, one of my friends wanted me to ask, what happens if they signed up for both but no longer which to get both (tax)? Does one take priority over the other as in one ships then to get the other must give the additional info, or whats the deal?

I'd have your friend contact the support email on the power together website and let them know. There is no set priority for these.

XxDesmus_MODxX wrote:



c9chris wrote: e) Not to be nit-picky, but just a point of feedback, I'd have found it much more convenient to do the W9 via SCAN & EMAIL vs.  FAX since to me it seems like EMAIL is much more convenient and reliable and modern than FAX, and it seems like it took forever to get the FAX to go through to the number...

Did you actually get the fax to go through? I've tried probably 20 times so far and every time it has been busy.

JeremyE wrote:


I just signed up for a free trial at rapidfax.com (no endorsement implied; you can also try efax.com). You attach the PDF generated by the W-9 form and it resends the fax until it gets through the busy signals.  That seemed to work well. No manual work required.

cadaeic wrote:

Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9?

Those asking about the W-9 form itself:
Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding"

cadaeic wrote:

Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9?

Those asking about the W-9 form itself:
Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding"

P.S. After 4 failed auto-redial attempts, I finally got through on the line to fax it in

trueheart78 wrote:



cadaeic wrote:Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9? Those asking about the W-9 form itself: Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding"

Do we still sign it though?

Sorry still new at the tax stuff

cadaeic wrote:

Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9?

https://microsoft.order-7.com/windowsvistaofficew-9/Address.aspx wrote:

Your W-9 will be generated directly from these fields so please be sure to enter your information just as you would a regular W-9. For instance, you will need to enter your name and address exactly as they appear on your income tax return. If you need to change your shipping address, please update your profile on the training site at www.powertogether.com and then return here to complete your W-9

recountryman wrote:



cadaeic wrote:Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9? Those asking about the W-9 form itself: Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding" P.S. After 4 failed auto-redial attempts, I finally got through on the line to fax it in

Crap...already mailed it with individual selected but didn't check exempt from backup withholding.....So is there going to be a problem? Is the IRS gonna come and get me?

cadaeic wrote:

Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9?

Those asking about the W-9 form itself:
Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding"

P.S. After 4 failed auto-redial attempts, I finally got through on the line to fax it in

trueheart78 wrote:



cadaeic wrote:Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9?

The site where the w9 is generated from states (epmhasis added):

https://microsoft.order-7.com/windowsvistaofficew-9/Address.aspx wrote:Your W-9 will be generated directly from these fields so please be sure to enter your information just as you would a regular W-9. For instance, you will need to enter your name and address exactly as they appear on your income tax return. If you need to change your shipping address, please update your profile on the training site at www.powertogether.com and then return here to complete your W-9

cadaeic wrote:

 I did see that, inference, however, there was nowhere that said the shipping address must be the same as my tax-filing address.

I corectly filled out my W-9, but I do not wish to update the shipping address. There's a reason they're different

https://microsoft.order-7.com/windowsvistaofficew-9/Address.aspx wrote:

For instance, you will need to enter your name and address exactly as they appear on your income tax return

Mark Brown wrote:



cadaeic wrote:Is it okay if our shipping address is different from the address we list on our W-9? Those asking about the W-9 form itself: Unless you know otherwise, you are most likely going to want to select "Individual" and check the box for "Exempt from backup withholding" P.S. After 4 failed auto-redial attempts, I finally got through on the line to fax it in

That shouldn't matter. It will go to the shipping address you included when you registered.

regards,
mark

EDIT: And see the post above about changing your shipping address for you who are completing W9's. For those that are not doing W9's its too late to change your shipping address as they have already been sent to the fulfillment vendor and are being printed onto your stuff right now.

XxDesmus_MODxX wrote:

Can anyone get the fax to go through today? I've been trying all day (including using the eFax service) and it's been busy all day long.

Mark Brown wrote:



EDIT: And see the post above about changing your shipping address for you who are completing W9's. For those that are not doing W9's its too late to change your shipping address as they have already been sent to the fulfillment vendor and are being printed onto your stuff right now.

fdisk wrote:

Just out of curiousity, why do you have to send in a W-9 form?

fdisk wrote:

Just out of curiousity, why do you have to send in a W-9 form?

trueheart78 wrote:



fdisk wrote: Just out of curiousity, why do you have to send in a W-9 form?

Because combined Vista Business and Office Pro 2007 are valued at over $600, so they require it. I snail-mailed mine today, figure I can wait a few extra days, that and I don't have a fax machine or a way to sign digitally

PaoloM wrote:

Did you read the thread?

fdisk wrote:



PaoloM wrote: Did you read the thread?

Sort of.

PaoloM wrote:



fdisk wrote: PaoloM wrote: Did you read the thread? Sort of.

XxDesmus_MODxX wrote:


Did you actually get the fax to go through? I've tried probably 20 times so far and every time it has been busy.

awp wrote:

 And finally, has there been anything released yet on Anytime Upgrade pricing for Vista? Still wondering how much it would cost to upgrade to Ultimate.

trueheart78 wrote:


My understanding is that it will priced against either one of the following
1) the price diff of the retail you are running and the price of the version you want
or
2) the price of an upgrade to the vers you want.

Not sure which, but looks like everyone wants ultimate

Are Digital Signatures okay for the W9? I want to use Acrobat to sign the form and fax it via FaxZero.com. Any reason why that won’t work?

portnoy wrote:

    I hope they don't close the thread until at least this question is answered. Someone else asked whether the Office package will be full retail or OEM, the difference being that typically full retail is installable on two computers where OEM is limited to just one machine. I have two computers that I planned to install and this is an issue I'd like to see addressed.

And I'm still hoping Office will be shipped on a pretty holographic cd, although that seems pretty unlikely.

recountryman wrote:

Thanks Dan400man. Does seem strange that there is no set priority. Wonder what the people that did both and now decided they only wanted one due to tax. They don't know which one they'll be getting.