Brad Silverberg was named P.C. Magazine’s Person of the Year in 1995 for his leadership on Windows 95. In part one of this two-part episode of Beyond the Blue Badge, the former SVP of Windows shares his memories and behind-the-scenes stories of the making of Windows 95 with host Rich Kaplan.
Turning down BillG: The journey from Apple to Borland to Microsoft.
Taking the helm of a rocket ship: The program that changed Microsoft operating system strategy and set the stage for an industry-wide revolution.
The 10 Commandments: Empowering a team to break down barriers.
Tapping into the zeitgeist: Creating the right product at the right time with the right technology.
Brad’s mom: Why you should thank her for Windows 95.
Getting connected: Laying the groundwork for internet connectivity before anyone really knew what the internet was.
Must play well with others: The tall order to make Windows 95 both forward and backward compatible for all types of devices.
Why Chicago: Reinforcing good Midwestern values to create “every man’s operating system.”
A lot of jumping up and down: The moment Brad knew Windows 95 was going to be a smash hit.
Testing Windows 95: A shopping trip to Egghead for “one of everything.”
Make Some Noise: Working with the Beastie Boys — Craig Eisler, Eric Engstrom, and Alex St. John — and shipping DirectX.
Brad Silverberg was senior vice president of Windows when Windows 95 was envisioned and shipped. After leaving the company, he co-founded Ignition Partners and Fuel Capital.
What’s your Windows 95 story?
Just 25 short years ago, the company launched Windows 95. We want to know your memories and how the Windows 95-era impacted your life and career, as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Windows 95 and your accomplishments. Did you work at the company during this time? Did you work on the Windows 95 team? Did your team support the launch? How did your team celebrate its success? What memory comes to mind when you hear the first chords of “Start Me Up”?
Share your Windows 95 story!
In the meantime, take a listen to these other Windows 95 episodes of Beyond the Blue Badge:
Building Windows 95 with David Cole
Marketing Windows 95 with Brad Chase