Microsoft Unlocked

Microsoft, a global brand committed to empowering people and organizations to achieve more, partnered with us to create a platform that showcases human stories highlighting technology’s positive impact. We bring these narratives to life on Microsoft Unlocked, creating interactive experiences, leveraging generative AI, and producing photography and films that illustrate the transformative power of technology.

Developing stories together

To bring each narrative to life, we collaborate closely, shaping a unique approach to each story and finding the most meaningful way to tell it. From concept to execution, we bring together the right team—blending expertise in content production, AI, UX design, and development—to craft seamless, engaging experiences where ideas shine.

A symphony of AI and the Amazon rainforest

Certain stories are best told through interactive and immersive formats. One example is a story on bioacoustics research in the Amazon, where scientists use Microsoft AI to monitor the health of the ecosystem. Inspired by the rich sounds of the rainforest, we developed a concept built around its natural "symphony.” The result was an experience that invited audiences to step into the researchers' world, engaging with the sights and sounds of the Amazon in a deeply immersive way.

A story of rural hospitals and cybersecurity

Video is oftentimes the most powerful way to capture human perspectives and the scope of their impact. When exploring cybersecurity’s role in rural hospitals, we knew this format would best convey the real-world stakes. With that in mind, we set out to tell a deeply personal narrative, planning and producing a photo and video story that put human experiences at the center. The outcome wasn’t just a story—it was a vivid, multi-perspective journey through the eyes of patients, healthcare workers, and IT professionals, showing how Microsoft partners with small communities to keep vital services running when it matters most.

Expanding neuroinclusion in employment

Many of the stories we’ve told center on authentic, human-centered narratives. In our exploration of neurodiversity, we shared the story of Mentra, a platform using Microsoft’s technology to connect neurodivergent individuals with meaningful job opportunities. Through thoughtful photo and video production, we didn’t just highlight the platform—we captured the real journeys of those it serves, including their founders. The result was a powerful depiction of how AI enables Mentra scale its mission, breaking down employment barriers and creating career pathways that truly fit neurodivergent talent.

Bringing complex concepts to life visually

Big ideas—like cybersecurity, biomimicry, or cancer screenings—become more tangible when turned into immersive visuals. Microsoft and Instrument share a belief that technology is most powerful when it serves people, and understanding it is key to unlocking its full potential. Through interactive design, data visualization and art, we help break down complex concepts into experiences that are not just informative, but intuitive and engaging.

Putting people at the center

Our work brings the Microsoft mission to life—not by focusing on technology alone, but by highlighting the people it empowers. By balancing raw human portraiture with compelling representations of technology and data, we create narratives that reveal the deep connection between innovation and impact. From the halls of Howard University to the nurses in Show Low, Arizona, capturing these stories has been an honor.

Amplifying stories across channels

Beyond designing, writing, and building features for the Unlocked platform—we ensure they reach the right audiences in meaningful ways. Through strategic go-to-market materials and channel-right assets, we tailor content to meet people where they are, whether on social media, at Microsoft events, or beyond. This approach helps amplify the voices of incredible people and communities, ensuring their stories not only inspire but also engage and connect across a wide range of platforms.

These stories stand out because they focus on the people they're helping, rather than advertising.

Anonymous UserMicrosoft Unlocked User Testing

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Award-winning storytelling that sparks brand love

Since its launch, the stories we’ve developed on Microsoft Unlocked have driven some of the platform’s highest engagement to date—and that’s just the beginning. This work has also earned industry recognition, with awards celebrating both the platform’s usability and the depth and impact of the stories it shares.