Microsoft was established in 1975 by Bill Gates and Paul Allen. It became a multinational technology company headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Microsoft develops, manufactures, licenses, supports and sells computer software, consumer electronics, personal computers, and services. It has strengths in flexible workforce and high brand recognition, but also faces threats from competitors in mobile and desktop operating systems. Microsoft's HR practices focus on recruitment, training, compensation and benefits, performance management, and work-life balance.