PRESS RELEASE from Committee on Arrangements for the 2012 Republican National Convention

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE April 19, 2012

Contact: James Davis

TAMPA, FL - Advancing efforts to make the 2012 Republican National Convention the most dynamic, state-of-the-art event in the party's history, organizers today announced Microsoft Corporation will serve as the convention's Official Innovation Provider. The announcement underscores convention Chief Executive Officer William Harris' commitment to embrace new technology that will spur interest and enthusiasm leading up to the August 27-30 event in Tampa.

The relationship includes a host of pioneering Microsoft solutions such as natural user interface in Microsoft's Kinect, and video communications technology in Microsoft's Skype. In addition, collaboration will be streamlined and improved through the use of the Microsoft Office Suite, SharePoint technologies and consulting services.

Microsoft technologies are designed to help people stay connected, collaborate and communicate as well as to create, access and share data, information and digital content in new ways. Many of these innovations have demonstrated remarkable uses in education, medicine, business and many other applications – and can also help transform the convention experience. Microsoft and the convention will continue to find ways to leverage Microsoft's technologies and experienced support teams to make this convention the most innovative to date.

"Technology is changing the way we plan and conduct conventions," said Harris, a veteran convention planner who has helped managed three conventions. "We are working with Microsoft to identify new ways to improve the convention experience for not only attendees in Tampa, but interested individuals across the country."

Added Brad Smith, Microsoft's General Counsel and Executive Vice President, "Microsoft is excited to collaborate with the Republican National Convention on this important event. Through the use of Microsoft's latest technology products, services and expertise, we aim to make this the most interactive, engaging and technologically advanced convention yet."

About Microsoft Corporation
Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT") is the worldwide leader in software, services, and solutions that help people and businesses realize their full potential.

About the 2012 Republican National Convention
The 2012 Republican National Convention will be held at the Tampa Bay Times Forum from August 27-30, 2012.  Nearly 50,000 visitors are expected to come to the Tampa Bay area for the event, including delegates, alternate delegates, members of the media and other guests.  For more information about the 2012 Republican National Convention, please visit our website at www.GOPConvention2012.com, follow us on Twitter, @GOPconvention, or "Like" us on Facebook, www.Facebook.com/GOPconvention