What does being an MVP mean to you?Being an MVP is a great source of motivation. My daily activities are limited to online venues such as mailing lists, newsgroups and Web bulletin boards; however, since becoming an MVP, I have learned about new technologies through participation in the MVP Global Summit and direct conversations with Microsoft employees and other MVPs. These opportunities have had a major influence on my activities and enhance my motivation as a result. If you could ask Steve Ballmer one question about Microsoft, what would it be?I would ask, “Will you continue to support developers?” I am a program developer, and his support encourages me because I have confidence that the leading person of the software-industry giant is supporting us. If he asked me what exactly he can do for us, I would reply that he should continue shouting, “Developer! Developer! Developer!” What do you think the best software ever written was?I think the best software should be easy to use and fit well with the users’ needs. I have created some unreleased software that enables one to shift Windows® to the logoff, reboot, hibernation, or shutdown status with one touch. This operation is also possible on other computers on the same network by remote control. I have not yet released this software because similar software already exists; however, I am pleased with my work because I was able to create software that is relevant and user-friendly. If you were the manager of Windows - Shell/User, what would you change?I would make the Auto Play Setup tab of a drive on Windows® XP more user-friendly so that multiple set-ups can be selected at once. While this has been considerably improved on Windows™ Vista, it is still desired by many Windows XP users. Furthermore, I would improve Windows XP so that the accurate number of unread emails is shown on the Welcome screen. What is your favorite Windows function?I like the function that enables one to run Windows® Explorer by pushing the Windows key and the “E” key. I think most people who have been using computers since the DOS era feel uncomfortable unless they see a visual folder structure. I did not use the DOS Shell much, but there was a lot of free software that had a visual folder structure. I am sure people who often used that type of software would not want to lose the Explorer display with folders. | What was the last book you read?While I have not read a paper book recently, I plan to read one soon, which I received courtesy of the author. It includes detailed information related to Windows Boot. In fact, the author is also a Microsoft MVP, who became an MVP about the same time that I did! His name is Yoshio Itaya and the information he provides is always trustworthy. The book is titled “How to use both Windows and Linux on one PC (for Windows® XP/Windows™ Vista)”. What music CD do you recommend?I would recommend “Tomorrow’s Just Another Day” by Mr. Yukihiro Takahashi, a former member of YMO (Yellow Magic Orchestra). The album itself was originally released more than 20 years ago, but it is still perfect in every facet, including tone and melody. What makes you a great MVP?I always try to post my answers on Web bulletin boards and newsgroups as soon as possible. I think those who ask questions are often at a loss and want to receive an answer quickly. However, this may have a negative effect because I could jump the gun and use my first idea, possibly posting an incorrect answer. Of course, I will remedy my incorrect answer as soon as I notice it, but improving this activity is my current goal. What's in your computer bag?In addition to my laptop and AC adapter, my bag contains an Ethernet cable, Microsoft fingerprint authentication equipment, a USB hub, a Microsoft mobile mouse, an IEEE1394 cable, a USB flash memory, a portable hard disk, a compact flash adaptor, a mobile communication card, and an MP3 player. Other non-technical contents include my business cards, wallet, lunchbox and water bottle. | What is the best thing that has happened since you have become an MVP?I had an opportunity to see Bill Gates when I attended the 2003 MVP Global Summit in Seattle; previously, I never would have dreamed that I would see “Bill Gates of Microsoft”. I also shook hands and took a photo with Steve Ballmer when he visited the 2003 MVP Japan Summit. Since I make my living as a software developer, I am not exaggerating when I say that shaking hands with the “Developer! Developer! Developer!” Steve Ballmer was perfect bliss. He had an overwhelming presence far beyond my imagination. What is your motto?I am compelled to answer any question that I can and correct any wrong information I find – this is my nature. Also, I always try to make a gentle and gentlemanly response to any FAQ. There have always been newcomers to the computer world and it is quite natural that they post FAQs. If I offer them a warm welcome, I believe they will be encouraged and may someday be computer experts. Who is your hero?I consider my hero to be the part of my personality that always urges me to answer questions. This may sound strange, but I respect that part of myself. I believe volunteers who are active in local events or in volunteer fire-fighting feel similarly since they cannot ignore people at a loss and feel compelled to help somehow. What does success mean to you?I consider myself successful when the software I write operates properly and is helpful to users. If I can continue doing this, I consider myself productive, and my company will grow. Currently, I earn income by developing special software for specific customers, but I would like to eventually create software for the general market. Of course, being an MVP is also a success to me. |
