Rob Helm

Rob Helm

Analyst

As managing vice president, Rob Helm covers Microsoft collaboration and content management. His 25-plus years of experience analyzing Microsoft’s technology and strategy allows him to discern the company’s overall direction from the sometimes confusing and contradictory signals it sends to customers and the industry.

Rob previously managed the Directions on Microsoft analyst team and its database management systems, developer strategy, and embedded platform research. His 13 years of prior experience in the computer industry include research on advanced developer tools, optimization of cluster applications, design of network protocols at the University of Oregon, and design and implementation of databases for the U.S. Navy.

Rob received a B.S. in computer science and mathematics from the University of Puget Sound and an M.S. in computer science from the University of Oregon.

Latest Content by Rob Helm

  Charts & Illustrations
August 25, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Life-Shortening Events for Exchange Server SE Timeline shows examples of planned events that will eliminate features or void support for Exchange Server SE.
  In Brief
August 25, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Exchange, SharePoint, Skype SE to Be Supported Through 2035 Exchange Server SE, SharePoint Server SE, and Skype for Business Server SE will all qualify for Microsoft product support through...
  Charts & Illustrations
Updated: August 22, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Field Roles Overview Diagram shows a typical account team and related roles in sales and delivery.
  In Brief
August 21, 2025 · by Rob Helm
M365 Companion Apps to Be on by Default in Windows 11 Organizations should preview the Microsoft 365 Calendar, File Search, and People companion apps for Windows 11 and block installs where...
  Webinar
Updated: August 20, 2025 · by Multiple Authors
When Support Ends: What to Do If You Have Done Nothing Several widely used Microsoft products leave support in a single “meteor” on Oct. 14, 2026, including Windows 10 and versions...
  Analyst Report
Updated: August 15, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Who’s Who on a Microsoft Account Team Understanding the roles of the Microsoft account team can help with problems in contract negotiation, licensing, and support.
  Charts & Illustrations
Updated: August 15, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Field Roles Overview Diagram shows a typical account team and related roles in sales and delivery.
  Analyst Report
August 8, 2025 · by Rob Helm
Windows 11 SE Support Ends Oct. 2026 Schools should shut down Surface SE and other Windows 11 SE devices by Oct. 2026, to avoid future attacks on...
  Roadmap
Updated: July 25, 2025 · by Multiple Authors
Places Roadmap Microsoft Places is a set of advanced work-scheduling features for Teams and Exchange Online, intended for employees who move frequently...