Cape Town – Software giant Microsoft has been ranked the top corporate social responsibility company in the world, demonstrating that it doesn’t only spend large sums of money on good causes, but also cares for its people and conduct its business in an open, honest and fair manner.
According to the Reputation Institute’s 2012 CSR RepTrak 100 study, the US based software company scored high in all three key categories; citizenship, workplace and governance.
The Reputation Institute is regarded as the leader in corporate reputation consulting.
Microsoft was placed first in terms of governance and second in both workplace and citizenship behind Google and Walt Disney Company respectively.
Microsoft donated more than $900m globally in financing and software to nonprofit organisations in 2012.
Said Justin Cain, general manager at Reputation Institute in South Africa: “Microsoft achieved its number one ranking because it has demonstrated that it doesn’t only spend large sums of money on good causes, but was also be able to create an environment where people want to work.
“In addition Microsoft conducted its business practices in such a way that it is perceived to be open, honest and fair,” said Cain.
More than 90% of Microsoft employees polled in 2012 believes the company is a good corporate citizen not only in communities where its employees stay, but also around the globe.
“Microsoft have been able to create a culture internally that understands the value CSR plays in building and protecting the company’s overall reputation,” said Cain.
Dan Bross, senior director of citizenship and public affairs, said for Microsoft a strong and steady core is the bedrock of both right action and good business.
Other companies that were ranked in the top 10 on CSR include Google, BMW, Apple, Sony and Lego.
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