14 DAY TRIAL // Where does Windows Server 2008 stop and pure poetry begin? This is a question that only a poetic server administrator can answer. And, of course, what better form for the answer to take than that of a Haiku, Japanese poetry filtered down to just 17 moras/on (sounds). Microsoft has the best place for harnessing and gathering all Windows Server 2—8 R2-examples of poetic creativity, namely R2 Haiku.
“Welcome to R2 Haiku,” reads a message from Microsoft on a website dedicated especially to allowing users to share Haikus about the latest iteration of Windows Server. “Take a moment to clear your mind and create a Haiku to win a home theater system and Xbox 360 Elite. For inspiration, explore the new features in Windows Server 2008 R2that will free up your time for simpler pursuits, like this. Or, browser and rate the Haikus of others.”
The contest debuted on November 8, 2009, but users have plenty of time at their disposal to come up with the perfect R2 poetry in the following format 5-7-5 syllables. This because Microsoft will only shut down submissions on January 15, 2010. According to the Redmond company a total of nine semi-finalist haikus will be selected, following which a public voting period will follow until January 29th, 2010.
“To be eligible for judging an entry your haiku must meet the following content / technical requirements: must not exceed 140 characters; must capture the benefits of Windows Server 2008 R2; traditional Haiku format (5-7-5 syllables) is encouraged, but not required,” Microsoft noted.
The contest is opened only to participants from the United States, Microsoft stressed. The total value of the grand prize is $3,675. The software giant revealed that the winning Haiku would nick the “poet” that created it a Sony Bravia XBR 52” LCD HDTV, a Sony Bravia 1000W 5.1 Home Theater system with Blu-ray disc player BDV-300, a Whalen 3-in-1 TV Stand BBXLF50GB, an Xbox 360 Elite Video Game Entertainment System, as well as installation services-advanced home theater setup from Best Buy Geek Squad.
“”Hot or Not" has been done, and nothing rhymes with Zen, so take a few minutes and browse the Haikus made by others to determine if they're Zen or Not Zen. You can like them by clicking Zen, or like them a little less by clicking Not Zen. As simple as upgrading. We'll be taking the top Haikus and selecting a winner,” Microsoft added.