Black Marble News RSS Feed

Black Marble welcomes another new staff member!

01-Jun-2006 09:05:04

Black Marble are delighted to welcome on board Mike Stocks, a new member of the development team.

Black Marble presents at the 3rd Developer Developer Developer day at Microsoft UK

03-May-2006 09:05:05

Black Marble were delighted to present at Developer Developer Developer Day 3 on 3 June. This FREE one day event built on the success of the previous DeveloperDeveloperDeveloper Days. As before it was all about developers learning, sharing and interacting with each other in an informal and relaxed atmosphere.

There were NO Microsoft speakers presenting, just speakers from the UK .NET developer community; although there were some of the Microsoft UK Developer Team on hand to help out and chat to attendees.

Richard unexpectedly started the day when he was asked to stand in for an ill speaker, and fortunately had a presentation on Unit Testing Graphical User Interfaces using Reflection almost ready to go. Robert's presentation, Linq to the Future finished off a great day.

For more information on the event from both Richard and Robert's perspectives, please check out our blog!

New Developer at Black Marble

20-Sep-2006 02:57:11

Black Marble are delighted to welcome on board James Mann, a new member of the development team.

Black Marble's team continues to grow with the welcome addition of James Mann.

New Office Administrator for Black Marble

20-Sep-2006 02:57:12

Laura Midgley becomes the latest new addition to Black Marble's team, taking on the challenging role of managing the ever-growing company office.

Ed Gibson/BI Events Re-scheduled.

05-Oct-2006 11:22:15

Due to complications with Ed Gibson's schedule we have to postpone the Leeds leg of Ed Gibson - On the Road and as a consequence Black Marble's first event 'Making the Most of your IT Systems using Business Intelligence', has been postponed to 27 February 2007. We apologise for any inconvenience and hope you will be able to attend.

As we saw such a huge interest in the event we have managed to secure Ed Gibson to speak at the first of Black Marble's community events on 7 December at 6pm, following Black Marble's day of events.

The venue remains the same, and in fact is now taking place after two of Black Marble's own events, but places are limited so do book early!

You can book on either event via the Events section of this website or by calling +44 1274 300 175.

Black Marble back at DD4

14-Nov-2006 05:02:37

Richard Fennell will be speaking once again at DDD4 at Microsoft in Reading on the 2 December. The topic will be "But it # my PC!" or continuous integration to improve software.

Check out our events page for more details or visit the official site: DDD4 Agenda.

Black Marble Continues to Grow

14-Nov-2006 05:07:14

Black Marble welcomes aboard another new recruit - Jon Fowler has joined our development team. Other recent expansion has seen Black Marble acquire a senior developer and new project manager.

Richard Fennell is Expert of the Month on the Best Practice Network

05-Dec-2006 07:22:36

Richard Fennell is Expert of the Month on the Best Practice Network.

This includes his article: Vista - A Manager's Overview. IT systems are presented with a number of challenges today. Microsoft Vista, the newest version of the Window family of products is designed to try to address these issues.

Microsoft Developer Launch Event coming to Black Marble

10-Jan-2007 02:23:31

Our Technical Update on 31 January is now including Martin Parry, a Developer Evangelist for Microsoft.

The Developer Evangelists for Microsoft are taking the developer launch for Office 2007 and Vista on the road in the next few weeks and are now including our Technical Update for Developers in their schedule.

Visit our Events page to book.

Black Marble talks Security with Ed Gibson at Northern Universities.

01-May-2007 09:52:03

Robert Hogg joined Microsoft Chief Security Advisor Ed Gibson on a short tour of Northern Universities to discuss issues of security in IT.

They visited York, Hull and Manchester and met with a great reception from the students and other audience members.

You can find out more about Mr. Gibson at Microsoft.com.

Robert and Ed are returning to the University circuit in the Autumn, the schedule of which is currently being arranged.

If you are interested in Mr. Gibson and Robert coming to speak at your University, please call Linda on 01274 841342.

New Look for Black Marble Offices

01-May-2007 09:59:40

To fit in with Black Marble's ever-expanding workforce, we have moved to bigger offices. Our new accommodation is in the same building so do not worry about finding us!

More New Faces at Black Marble

01-Jun-2007 10:01:57

This has been a year of strong growth for Black Marble, which has been reflected in the expansion of our team - new members include Paul Bloomfield, Robert Hancock, Andy Dawson and Steve Spencer.

More new staff are scheduled to join us over the summer.

Robert Hogg become MVP

01-Apr-2007 10:03:46

Robert Hogg has been made an MVP (Most Valuable Professional) for Visual Developer Solutions Architect. This is a great honour, and Robert is delighted to receive it in recognition of his contribution to the IT Developer Community in the UK.

Mentoring the Next Generation in the Imagine Cup

01-Apr-2007 10:09:39

Robert was delighted to mentor the winners of the UK leg of the Imagine Cup. Mat, Matt, Jim and Michelle aka The Seedlings from the University of Hull outshone the competition to represent the UK in the international final to be hald in Korea in August.

A Year of Unprecedented Growth For Black Marble

01-Aug-2007 11:49:29

Black Marble continues its amazing year of growth with a move into larger premises and the addition of more new staff, including Suzanne Lewis, who joins our senior consulting team.

Robert Hogg Takes his Team to Korea

08-Aug-2007 11:49:30

Robert Hogg has taken the winning UK Imagine Cup team to Korea to take part in the International Final. Unfortunately, the team were unsuccessful but made a great effort. Check out the Black Marble Blogs for more on Robert's experiences.

MSDN in association with Black Marble comes North

08-Aug-2007 12:03:47

Black Marble is proud to be associated with MSDN in the North.

Running the same day as Black Marble's own Seminars from September, Microsoft's MSDN events, presented by members of the Microsoft Developer Platform Evangelist Team are taking place at the same venue.

Bookings for these events can be made through the usual Black Marble booking system.

Mix:UK 07 is the premier event for web designers and web developers

04-Aug-2007 02:52:28

Don't forget to register for Mix:UK 07 - the premier event for Web Designers and Web Developers, coming to London this September (11/12). Early Bird registration expires 10 August. Black Marble will be attending in force, might see you there!

Speakers include:

Scott Guthrie, General Manager in Microsoft's Developer Division
George Moore, General Manager for the Windows Live Developer Group
Andy Hood, Creative Development Director, AKQA
Beau Ambur, CEO of Metaliq Inc
Paul Dawson, Head of Interactive Media, Conchango
Danny Thorpe, Senior Software Designer and previously architect of the Gears API at Google, and former Chief Scientist at Borland and Chief Architect of the Delphi compiler
Pete Barr-Watson, Interactive design industry veteran and best-selling author

Another MSDN Event in November

01-Oct-2007 09:48:45

MSDN, in association with Black Marble are returning again in November - focussing on SQL 2008 and featuring Mike Taulty and Mike Ormond. Booking open now.

Ed Gibson Returning

01-Oct-2007 09:50:06

Ed Gibson, the charismatic Chief Security Advisor for Microsoft UK, is returning to the North of England to speak again.

Ed is an ex-FBI agent and delivers a fascinating talk on his experiences and views on security in the IT world and how to combat organised crime on the Internet.

This event is likely to fill up so please book early. Booking open now.

Black Marble Presents at TechEd 2007

27-Nov-2007 11:03:45

Black Marble directors Robert Hogg and Richard Fennell presented at TechEd Developers Europe 2007 on "Implementing Enterprise Service Bus using Microsoft Biztalk Server".

Can Black Marble Save Christmas ... ?

10-Dec-2007 05:02:33

Find out how in our Xmas series.

Will Santa get his list back? Who is the mysterious man in black? All this, and more will be revealed ...

The Continuing Adventures of the Black Marble Brigade ...

19-Dec-2007 06:57:46

Check out parts 2 to 6 of Black Marble Saves Christmas ... Can BizTalk Boy and SharePoint Sprite overcome the evil carollers??

Ed Gibson Secures the North

31-Jan-2008 11:52:47

Ed Gibson, Chief Security Advisor for Microsoft UK once again wowed the evening crowd at the Black Marble Community Event at the end of January. A strong turnout ensured an enthusiastic round of Q&A followed Ed's enlightening presentation, leaving all the attendees with something to think about.

SharePoint, Silverlight and Windows Mobile

01-Feb-2008 11:56:07

If you haven't already registered for our February 26th events, why not take this opportunity to do so now? The morning is covering SharePoint 2007, the afternoon MSDN event is Silverlight and the evening is Windows Mobile Development with Visual Studio 2008.

Refreshments, including lunch, is provided!

Black Marble at the Irish Web Technology Conference

22-Feb-2008 12:00:10

Robert Hogg and Mat Steeples are speaking at the Irish Web Technology Conference, which runs Tuesday 26th February - Friday 29th February 2008.

Their hot topic is Volta ... Decisions in application architecture are currently made well in advance of implementation. They discuss how future changes in development tooling will change the way that multi-tier web application architecture is implemented.

Robert and Richard Speaking at Irish Microsoft Technology Conference

19-Mar-2008 10:27:46

Robert Hogg and Richard Fennell are speaking at the Irish Microsoft Technology Conference in Dublin on the 3rd and 4th of April. Robert is covering BizTalk and ESB and Richard is discussing SQL Server 2008.

Richard Fennell and Tom Wardill Speaking at Developer Day Scotland

19-Mar-2008 10:34:50

Richard Fennell and Tom Wardill are presenting at Developer Day Scotland on 10th May. Richard is presenting on Continuous Integration to Improve Quality and Tom is presenting on ASP.NET MVC: Testing the Web.

Heroes Happen {here}

29-Mar-2008 12:36:33

Black Marble are taking part in the Microsoft Launch of Windows Server 2008, Visual Studio 2008 and SQL Server 2008.

These products provide a secure and trusted platform for creating and running your most demanding applications. Combined, the products provide a solid foundation for next-generation web applications, broad support for virtualisation technology and access to relevant information. Advanced security technology, developer support for the latest platforms, improved management and web tools, flexible virtualisation solutions, and access to relevant information from throughout your organisation enable you to drive your business forward.

Check out our launch events {here} and visit the Official Site {here}.

Robert Hogg now MVP for BizTalk

17-Apr-2008 01:13:16

Robert Hogg, formerly Microsoft Valued Professional (MVP) for Visual Studio Architect is now MVP for BizTalk.

And in April 2008, he attended the MVP summit at Microsoft in Redmond, check out his blog for details of his time there.

Black Marble involved in the Launch of SBUG

07-May-2008 08:22:26

Burley Kawasaki announced the launch of SBUG ... the UK SOA and BPM User Group at the Microsoft Architecture Insight Conference 2008. Its mission is to enable its members to maximize its understanding of the Microsoft SOA and BPM product and partner landscape.

Black Marble is proud to be in at the formation of this User Group, and we look forward to contributing to its future, as well as promoting Architecture Conferences in the North of England.

Richard Fennell Awarded MVP for Team System

03-Jul-2008 12:46:50

Richard Fennell, Engineering Director at Black Marble has just been awarded Microsoft Valued Professional (MVP) for Team System.

Richard joins Robert, Black Marble's MD, in the ranks of MVP in the UK.

Ask the Expert at TechEd IT US

09-Jun-2008 12:50:54

Robert, our resident BizTalk MVP spent the week of TechED IT in the US on the BizTalk standing, in the role of 'Ask the Expert'.

New Series of Events from Black Marble

02-Sep-2008 11:21:52

Black Marble's new series of events kick off on the 22 October with Effective Companywide Project Management with Microsoft Project, featuring guest speaker Paul Major of Program Framework. This is paired with TechNet's Security Improvements with Windows Server 2008 and Bitlocker, and followed up by Silverlight, XNA and Gaming with Richard Costall and Peter McGann.

Check out our Events page for more details on all our forthcoming events!

Soa and Esb Architecture with BizTalk

15-Jan-2008 11:55:34

In 2008, Wrox Press published an EBrief by Robert Hogg and Ewan Fairweather (BizTalk Premier Field Engineer): Soa and Esb Architecture with BizTalk.

It explores Service Orientated Architecture and the Enterprise Service Bus, focusing on how it can be implemented using Microsoft BizTalk Server. It explains the need for SOA Architecture in an enterprise business and looks at the key Business and IT Drivers in business, how they can interact, and where there are conflicts that SOA can help resolve. Specifically, the author discusses Microsoft ESB Guidance and how, by using BizTalk 2006, ESB implementation can provide a solid platform for SOA development; management across the IT and Business Space with the Governance and tools provided in the ESB Toolkit; pointers to online resources, including guides on installing and deploying ESB; and how to avoid common SOA pitfalls.

Microsoft Spotlights Black Marble working with Prontaprint using MOSS 2007

22-Sep-2008 10:36:46

Design and print-on-demand service provider Prontaprint wanted to enhance service quality and standardise new brand positioning across its 175 franchised centres. It brought in Black Marble to take advantage of our skills and experience with Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 to build a Web solution to improve collaboration between the centres as well as with customers.

You can read more about the project here: Franchiser Uses Web Collaboration Solution, Increases Sales Order Value by 55 Per Cent.

Do you want to attend FREE high quality technical presentations from the best in their field?

03-Nov-2008 10:26:26

On 19 November we are running a day full of FREE events ... including a free lunch!

The day opens with a CRM event - We will show that Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 is a fully integrated customer relationship management (CRM) system, which gives you the capability to easily create and maintain a clear view of customers from first contact through purchase and post sales.

The afternoon brings on board MSDN - What’s New in Visual Studio 2008 Service Pack 1? with Mike Taulty and Eric Nelson.

Finally, the evening brings Enhancing Developer Productivity with DevExpress CodeRush and Refactor! with Oliver Sturm.

Remember - all our events are free - you do not need to come for the whole day ... and there is great food!

Call on 01274 814305 to book ...

Architecture Forum in the North

11-Nov-2008 02:32:55

Black Marble and Microsoft invite you to join us for an event featuring the top architecture experts in the UK. This is an unique opportunity to provide IT Managers, IT and software architects from Northern businesses the chance to learn about the latest technologies and best practices from Microsoft in the field of Architecture, including the exciting new announcements about cloud computing that were unveiled at the Professional Developers Conference in October.

This full day event will provide insightful information about the latest techniques, demonstrating how with Microsoft’s architecture tools and technologies you can address your current business needs. Both the morning and afternoon tracks can be booked and attended separately.

Agenda

9:30 - Welcome/Introductions

9:45 - Sustainable IT – from Datacentre to Cloud with Matt Deacon, Chief Architectural Advisor, Microsoft.

10:45 - Break

11:15 - Patterns & Practices - Guidance for the Architect with Simon Thurman, Architect Evangelist, Microsoft.

12:15 - Lunch

13:15 - Windows Azure and the Azure Services Platform – What is it all about? with Simon Davies, Senior Architectural Engineer, Microsoft.

14:30 - Break

15:00 - Oslo, Microsoft’s Vision for the Future of SOA with Robert Hogg, Black Marble.

16:15 - Summary

16:30 - Close

For more information, including how to book:

Architecture Forum in the North, Part I - Architecture Best Practices and Architecture Forum in the North, Part II - A Vision for the Future of Architecture

Or you can call on 01274 841 305 to reserve your place.

Black Marble Christmas Cards are back ...

30-Nov-2008 10:59:31

Following 2007's successful series of Christmas cards, 'Black Marble Saves Xmas' ... we had such fun putting them together, that we had too many ideas for this years ... and as a result we have decided to share them with you throughout December.

So enjoy your Holiday Season, take a look at our official card and find out what isn't falling through your letter box ...

Architecture Forum - Great Success

04-Dec-2008 01:14:30

Black Marble hosted the first Architecture Forum in the North today and despite the treacherous weather conditions, there was a great and enthusiastic turnout.

The day opened with Matt Deacon, Chief Architectural Advisor from Microsoft espousing on Sustainable IT, followed up by Simon Thurman, a Microsoft Architecture Evangelist on Patterns and Practices. A round table arrangement for lunch kept the conversation going, all over fabulous turkey sandwiches and freshly made mince pies … one thing you can say about a Black Marble event, you always get fed well! The afternoon kicked off with Senior Architectural Engineer from Microsoft, Simon Davies explaining Azure, and the final session of the day saw Black Marble MD and Architecture MVP Robert Hogg discussing Oslo and Microsoft’s vision for the future of Modelling.

Everyone had a really great time … especially the lucky attendee who went home with a free X-Box courtesy of Black Marble!

The Black Marble Technical Update Returns

18-Jan-2009 03:16:53

Black Marble’s Annual Technical Update returns on the 21st January at 2pm … and we’re ready to reveal what little gems you may have missed in 2008, and what you can expect in 2009 and beyond. If you’ve never been to a Black Marble event before, this is a great introduction, it covers the products you know, and those you didn’t know were there. Looks like a great turnout this year. so come early, and join us for a fabulous lunch!

And don’t forget, from 6pm Ed Gibson, Chief Security Advisor to Microsoft UK is returning to speak his mind – his third visit to Black Marble, and always a popular event.

Visit our Events section to register.

Black Marble joins Microsoft's Business Advisor Podcast Series

12-Feb-2009 12:26:18

Robert Hogg was one of the experts called upon by Microsoft to contribute to the "Save to Gain" podcast, part of their "Business Advisor" series. This is a set of podcasts featuring commentary from Microsoft executives, independent experts and partners discussing topical business issues. Robert joins Scott Dodds, general manager of the Small and Medium Solutions and Partners division at Microsoft UK and David Sumner Smith, Programme Director of Telegraph Business Club, to provide some practical guidance on how to cut costs without harming the productivity or efficiency of your business.

Black Marble sponsors Alt.Net in the North

20-Feb-2009 12:22:01

Black Marble are proud to sponsor the Northern date for Alt.Net ... the community Open Space forum conference, where the attendees set the agenda. It opens on Friday 17 April, with an evening session to set the agena for the following Saturday. More details can be found at http://www.altdotnetuknorth.info/

Black Marble at the MVP Summit

08-Mar-2009 12:20:27

Black Marble MVPs Robert Hogg and Richard Fennell have just attended the Microsoft MVP Global Summit. Featuring more than 400 technical sessions, Robert and Richard were among their peers from around the world that received access to exclusive technical content, participated in direct feedback sessions, and met with Microsoft executives and product teams.

Black Marble MD becomes Honorary Fellow at the University of Hull

08-Mar-2009 08:01:19

Black Marble MD, Robert Hogg has been appointed Honorary Fellow in the Department of Computer Science, at the University of Hull.

Fourth Annual Microsoft Architect Insight Conference

27-Mar-2009 10:29:37

Black Marble are pleased to announce their participation in the Fourth Annual Microsoft Architect Insight Conference taking place in London on the 8th May. As well as being a Platinum sponsor for this event, MD Robert Hogg is speaking on Oslo, and along with Richard Fennell will be taking part in interactive sessions.

The theme of the event is ‘Architecture as a foundation for business’, and contains a fantastic speaker line up including keynote talks focusing on experiences of developing and deploying large scale business solutions on the Microsoft platform.

As in previous years the AIC will focus on current and emerging trends in the field of IT Architecture including:-

Enterprise Architecture: focusing on cost reduction, improved agility and responsiveness to the business.
Solution Architecture: focusing on the changing architecture of the client, from thick to thin to rich to smart.
Infrastructure Architecture: focusing on the infrastructure tools and technologies of the server and data centre.

The format of the Architect Insight Conference in 2009 has changed to reflect the challenging business environment that many companies are experiencing, but is still focused on arming IT Architects with the knowledge and tools needed to succeed – so please join us!

Robert Hogg makes Fellow of the BCS

21-Apr-2009 01:54:57

Black Marble MD has added Fellow of the BCS to his growing list of titles. The grade of Fellowship of the BCS comprises the most senior and respected professionals in the field of IT. Black Marble is proud to be a corporate member of the BCS, and has among its staff: 4 Chartered IT Professionals and 16 Members of the BCS.

Black Marble Sponsors The National Museum of Computing

10-Jun-2009 03:09:28

Black Marble's donation to The National Museum of Computing enabled the opening of a new research office.

The office includes a large selection of published books, including a very wide section on the history of computing. The facilities include photocopying, viewing micro-film and micro-fiche, and equipment for replaying video cassettes in those important (historic) formats such as UMatic and VHS.

The National Museum of the Computing is dedicated to showing the development of computing from 1940 to the present day. It houses both the Colossus computer and some of the famous Enigma machines.

Richard Fennell: MVP Status Renewed

02-Jul-2009 01:38:38

Black Marble are delighted to announce Richard Fennell’s renewal as an MVP (Microsoft Valued Professional) for Team System, joining Robert Hogg (MVP for Connected Systems).

Microsoft Most Valuable Professionals (MVPs) are exceptional technical community leaders from around the world who are awarded for voluntarily sharing their high quality, real world expertise in offline and online technical communities. Microsoft MVPs are a highly select group of experts that represents the technical community's best and brightest, and they share a deep commitment to community and a willingness to help others.

Black Marble in the WPC 2009 Keynote Address

15-Jul-2009 11:21:54

During the Day 1 Keynote at the Microsoft Worldwide Partner Conference in New Orleans, the auditorium heard Black Marble's IT Director Rik Hepworth air his views and thoughts on the forthcoming Office and SharePoint 2010 releases.

Plus, if you are attending the conference, you can find out more about Black Marble's Service Offerings at the 'Services Ready' booth opposite Hall E, and why not arrange to meet up in Hall A with WPC Connect?

Black Marble speaking at The Irish Software Show

20-Aug-2009 09:59:57

Black Marble directors Robert Hogg and Richard Fennell, and consultant Iain Angus, are speaking at “epicenter” – The Irish Software Show, in Dublin (26 – 28 August). Three days of software excellence for software architects, CTOs and developers of all knowledge and experience levels. The event is running over four zones, with 74 sessions in total. The Microsoft stream of epicenter 2009 builds upon the biggest ever Microsoft conferences ever held in Ireland, the Irish Microsoft Technologies Conferences of 2006, 2007 and 2008.

Robert has two sessions: “Oslo, Microsoft’s Vision for the Future of Modelling” and “Software Project Management War Stories”, and Richard has two sessions: “Application Lifecycle Management – Moving Beyond Source Control” and “Making Testers part of the Development Team”. Iain will be speaking on Azure, Microsoft’s Cloud Computing Initiative.

Black Marble tours Bletchley Park and the National Museum of Computing

07-Sep-2009 01:40:51

Black Marble proudly supports the important work of the Bletchley Park Trust and the National Museum of Computing, and in September 2009, a number of the Black Marble team took the opportunity to tour both organisations.

The Bletchley Park Trust manages the historic site of Station X , the base of British codebreaking activities during World War II and birthplace of the modern computer.

The team behind the National Museum of Computing are striving to bring a hands-on approach to technology history, with the world’s first purpose built computer centre, the oldest working computer and of course, Colossus – the first digital, programmable, and electronic machine.

We would like to thank Niki Holmes-Bridges from the Bletchley Park Trust and Kevin Murrell and Bob Jones from the National Museum of Computing for their kindness and our behind the scenes tour, contributing to our great day out.

If you would like to help the work at the Bletchley Park Trust and the National Museum of Computing, please visit their websites and select Donate.

Remember Remember the 5th November

06-Oct-2009 01:12:53

After our successful Visual Studio 2010 event, we are now anticipating a fantastic day for our Office 2010 and SharePoint 2010 Early Access day on 5 November. Black Marble will be fresh from the SharePoint Conference in Las Vegas and will be sharing our knowledge with you about the great new features in the 2010 release of Office and SharePoint.

And if you’re at the SharePoint Conference – look out for Black Marble staff!

Black Marble hits Vegas for the SharePoint 2009 Conference

15-Oct-2009 01:21:18

The official Microsoft SharePoint Conference 2009 has sold out, but Black Marble is attending in force. Geared up for the exciting new announcements around SharePoint 2010, look out for Black Marble's Robert Hogg and Andy Dawson on stage on Thursday morning with Ryan McMinn from the Access team presenting about exciting new functionality in SharePoint.

The conference will be looking towards the future with deep content centred on SharePoint 2010, as well as sharing real world experience and guidance to assist in maximising your investment in SharePoint Server 2007. With ample opportunities to network with technical and industry experts, don’t forget to look out for the Black Marble team!

And on your return, why not attend our Office 2010/SharePoint 2010 event on 5 November? Get all the latest launch news direct from our experts and see the latest features demonstrated live.

Connect ... Collaborate ... SharePoint.

Black Marble in Berlin for TechEd EMEA 2009

10-Nov-2009 12:17:44

Black Marble’s Rik Hepworth and Suzanne Kelwick are in Berlin for the sold-out Microsoft TechEd EMEA 2009. Why not look out for them around the conference? And keep up with Rik’s thoughts as the conference progresses.

TechEd EMEA provides developers and IT professionals a comprehensive technical education across Microsoft's current and soon-to-release suite of products, solutions and services. It provides hands-on learning, deep product exploration and opportunities to connect with industry and Microsoft experts.

Black Marble at the Professional Developers Conference in LA

13-Nov-2009 12:05:28

No less than EIGHT Black Marble devlopers are hitting the West Coast of the US for the 2009 Professional Developer's Conference (PDC). The PDC is the definitive event focused on the technical strategy of the Microsoft developer platform. Black Marble will join 1000s of attendees from around the world to mingle with and learn from the people who make it happen.

The PDC guides developers, architects and technology leaders with guidance in the following key areas:

Microsoft's vision and roadmap for the future of developer technology
Deep, technical content delivered by Microsoft's technology leaders
Hands-on access to the latest developer technologies and over 1,000 Microsoft product and technology experts
Unique networking opportunities - so if you're there ... make sure you get in touch with Black Marble!

Directors and MVPs Robert Hogg and Richard Fennell are among the attendees from Black Marble.

Black Marble joins Inner Circle for Visual Studio

19-Nov-2009 12:13:42

Black Marble has joined the Microsoft Visual Studio Team System Inner Circle programme. The programme is an initiative from Microsoft to engage with key application life-cycle management (ALM) partners worldwide, and Black Marble is one of only a few in the UK. As an Inner Circle partner we work closely in a recriprocal relationship with the Microsoft experts, both nationally and internationally, receiving specialised training and early access to the next generation of Microsoft Developer Tools.

Black Marble's Engineering Director, Richard Fennell, is an MVP for Visual Studio Team System.

Black Marble Speaking at NxtGenUG on Project War Stories

30-Nov-2009 02:15:24

Robert Hogg and Steve Spencer present on Software Project Management War Stories for NxtGenUG at Coventry Aero Club. It is a pragmatic look at what things make projects succeed including how to manage software developers, how to be managed and how to finish a project with your sanity intact.

Return of the Black Marble Brigade

03-Dec-2009 05:34:01

After saving Christmas in 2007, the Black Marble Brigade are returning in an all-new adventure for the 2009 Black Marble Christmas card series.

Part 1 in the post now, as well as appearing on our website. Part 2 is due 7th December, and part 3 on the 10th.

This year, for every card sent we are making a donation to The Bletchley Park Trust and The National Museum of Computing

Visual Studio and ALM Event now coming to Edinburgh

08-Jan-2010 10:37:12

Following on from the Black Marble-Microsoft successful Visual Studio 2010 and ALM events run in Yorkshire and London, we are now taking it to Edinburgh. Microsoft speaker Giles Davies will return with Black Marble’s Richard Fennell, MVP for TFS. The event will be run at Waverley Gate, Microsoft’s offices in Edinburgh and conveniently located close to the railway station.

Click here to register for this event.

Here is what some of the attendees from the London/Yorkshire events had to say:

Excellent level of professionalism throughout the day. Very informative and useful as always. The debugging history feature was invaluable in itself not to mention the UI code testing, thanks. Job well done! Brill new features; especially testing management.

Black Marble has relocated to Woodland Park

15-Feb-2010 11:32:30

Black Marble recently went on an epic quest to find new premises!

After thirteen years at Angel Way in the middle of Bradford, Black Marble has relocated to Woodland Park on the outskirts of Bradford. Completely refurbished to our specification, the new premises is an exciting new chapter in the Black Marble story.

We are located just off Junction 26 of the M62 – a convenient location for all staff and visitors.

Visit our contact page for directions and a map of where we are!

Black Marble is Supporting givewithbing.com

02-Mar-2010 12:52:10

Black Marble is supporting the Bing campaign to raise money for Sport Relief through endless Searching.

Every 10 qualifying searches on Bing generate 5p for Sport Relief! Rather than run a mile, why not exercise your searching muscles and still raise money.

The campaign is running until 31 March.

Black Marble presents Microsoft TechDays in the North!

04-Mar-2010 01:16:45

Following our popular Architect Insight Forum in the North, Black Marble is delighted to bring you Microsoft TechDays in the North!

Microsoft are celebrating a number of product launches and innovations during TechDays: a week of technology and social events. Black Marble is joining in with a Northern event exploring how you can get the most from the latest technology releases including Visual Studio 2010 and SilverLight4 and explore how Microsoft's platform and tools bring together the clients, servers and services needed to build rich engaging applications.

We’re opening with a morning on Visual Studio 2010 featuring Black Marble and Microsoft US’ Matt Nunn, Visual Studio Program Manager. Matt will be exploring Visual Studio Team Foundation Server. You can register here.

During the afternoon, Black Marble will be bringing you Mix:Remixed – all the highlights from Microsoft’s web conference in Vegas as well as Microsoft SilverLight Guru Jesse Liberty as part of his tour of User Groups throughout the UK and Ireland. You can register here

Why not come for the day? Always great food, and great chance to interact with the experts!

Black Marble in Vegas for MIX 2010

11-Mar-2010 12:47:10

Black Marble’s Robert Hogg and Lauren Fear are in Vegas during March for MIX 2010 – the premier web conference from Microsoft. Now in its fifth year, MIX is a gathering of designers and developers who together are building innovative web sites. With in-depth exposure to new Microsoft technologies – including Windows Phone 7!

Black Marble will be mingling with the industry’s inspiring leaders on a wide-range of topics from SilverLight to Expression through Internet Explorer.

Plus on 15 April, we are bring you the highlights of MIX at our own event running as part of Microsoft Techdays – Mix in the North, featuring Microsoft SilverLight Guru Jesse Liberty

Techdays in the North a Big Success

21-Apr-2010 11:58:46

During Microsoft’s week long series of events to support the launch of Visual Studio 2010, Black Marble’s TechDays in the North sessions were a big success. 100+ arrived in Yorkshire to hear Microsoft’s Matt Nunn outline Visual Studio 2010 and to watch Richard Fennell’s demo.

The afternoon continued with Robert Hogg and Lauren Fear overviewing the key announcements from Mix 2010, including Windows Phone 7, before SilverLight Guru Jesse Liberty presented in his entertaining and educational style.

If you want to find out more about how Visual Studio 2010 can be implemented within your business, please get in touch (01274 300175).

Richard Fennell delivering three sessions at the Norwegian Developers Conference

28-Apr-2010 01:09:03

Richard Fennell is speaking at the Norwegian Developers Conference, 16-18 June. The conference will focus on agile program development on Microsoft platforms.

Richard has three sessions:

The conference has 135 sessions, with more than 50 speakers including Mads Torgersen, Chris Sells, Rob Conery, Mike Cohn and Robert C. Martin.

Themes from the conference include:

Agile projects including LEAN, SCRUM, Kanban, and Agile Testing.
Test–Driven Development for beginners and advanced developers.
Silverlight and Rich Internet Applications.

More information is available from the Norwegian Developers Conference Website, we well as information on how to register.

Richard Fennell – MVP for Visual Studio (ALM)

04-May-2010 10:08:04

Black Marble’s Engineering Director Richard Fennell had a name change to coincide with the recent launch of Visual Studio 2010 – no longer an MVP for Team System, he is now an MVP for Visual Studio (ALM).

Robert Hogg into Fourth Year as MVP

07-May-2010 01:39:23

Black Marble MD Robert Hogg has been given the Most Valuable Professional award for the fourth year running!

MVP for Connected Systems, Robert is delighted to once again be recognised for his work in this area, and to be joining a fantastic group of experts around the world.

SharePoint 2010 and Office 2010 Launch Today!

12-May-2010 11:37:49

Today is the global launch of Office 2010 and SharePoint 2010. At 4pm UK time Stephen Elop, President of the Microsoft Business Division delivers the keynote focusing on how peers and partners use the Microsoft platform to delivery maximum productivity, enhance choice and aid developers build innovative solutions.

Black Marble has been an early adopter of SharePoint 2010 and is delighted to be able to offer consultancy services around the platform, assisting your business in staying ahead of the curve. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you implement SharePoint 2010, please call 01274 853385.

You can watch the Keynote online here

Black Marble Zone at the Irish Software Show

01-Jun-2010 11:43:49

Black Marble is out in force for Epicenter, the Irish Software Show. Robert Hogg, Steve Spencer and Iain Angus are all speaking in the Black Marble Zone on the 8th June 2010.

Their sessions include:

Advantages for your Business with Visual Studio 2010

30-Jun-2010 11:58:15

Do you have a development team? Are they using Visual Studio 2008 or 2010? We are running a series of FREE events in Yorkshire, London and Edinburgh in July and August, highlighting how Visual Studio 2010 can aid Application Lifecycle Management (ALM).

Black Marble is a leading expert in delivering the full ALM story; we promote best practices for quality in development and delivery to help you manage and optimise your entire software development process.

Remember, our events are free, and all our speakers present at a National and International level. As well as a presentation, these sessions include a round table discussion where you can put your questions to the experts.

Black Marble, Yorkshire - 22 July | 5 August
Microsoft, Edinburgh - 10 August
Royal College of Physicians, London - 29 July | 12 August

Richard Fennell Awarded MVP for Visual Studio (ALM) – Again!

05-Jul-2010 10:18:53

Black Marble’s Engineering Director Richard Fennell has once again been awarded Microsoft Most Valuable Professional for Visual Studio (ALM). Now in his third year as an MVP, Richard joins MD Robert Hogg, now in his fourth year as an MVP (Connected Systems).

Richard regularly speaks at events and conferences both nationally and internationally in his field, and is just recently returned from the Norwegian Developers’ Conference. His next engagement includes a series of Black Marble Events on Visual Studio 2010 and how it can benefit your business.

New Scrum Master and Developer at Black Marble

12-Jul-2010 12:41:41

Black Marble’s Development Director Steve Spencer, is now a Certified Professional Scrum Master and Scrum Developer.

Scrum is an the leading agile framework for completing complex projects, and Black Marble use it for software development projects, to assist in managing the Application Lifecycle.