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It would seem that "Microsoft Corporation" would be the way to refer
to the company itself, but most people just say "Microsoft."
It would have been helpful if she had addressed Microsoft's own
observance of its policy instead of ignoring the issue.
Bonnie Granat
www.granatedit.com
John Posada wrote:
> A while back, I'd brought up a point on the list about whether a
> trademarked word should be used as a possessive. I don't want to
> rehash
> the whole issue again...just thought you might be interested in the
> response that Microsoft sent me when I submitted the question to
them.
>
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Microsoft ContactUs
>
> Hello John,
>
> Thank you for contacting us at Microsoft.com.
>
> You are absolutely correct. Microsoft guidelines stipulate that you
> should avoid forming possessives from the following:
>
> - Company names
> - Product, service, and technology names
> - Feature names
> - "Microsoft"
> Instead, it is advised that you use the name as an adjective or use
an
> of construction. Unfortunately, this guideline is often overlooked
or
> ignored.
> Thank you for taking the time and effort to use the guidelines that
> Microsoft has developed. By setting a good example as you've done, I
> hope your work will inspire others.
>