Friday, 21 January 2005

Microsoft Pink Slips 62 Windows Testers

The Microsoft Windows division has axed 62 internal beta testers in what it claims is the result of a push towards more automated testing environments. This move comes despite Windows Longhorn development being ramped up in preparation for Beta 1. According to a Seattle Times report, Microsoft didn't give much notice; the company contacted employees last Tuesday and Wednesday, and the layoffs took effect by Friday. Testers can choose to stay on the Redmond campus for an additional six weeks, but must find another job within that period. Rumours have been circling that Microsoft is sending some testing jobs overseas, but company representatives deny the correlation saying new technology allows Microsoft to automate tasks that previously required personnel.

This month's round of layoffs are not the first cuts Microsoft has made to its testing pool. The company axed 93 test positions in its Windows Server division last September.