The constellation map portrays Seattle-area tech-company connections and which companies spawned out of others. In all, more than 600 companies are on the map.
Seattle techies may not be surprised to learn that Microsoft, Amazon.com and the University of Washington top the list of organizations that are producing the most new companies in the area. But it’s an entirely different experience to be able to visualize their impact.
A new constellation map that seeks to portray all of the Seattle area’s tech connections is being released Wednesday, the first map of its type since 2009. The map, created by Seattle startup Killer Infographics and released by Madrona Venture Group and the Washington Technology Industry Association, includes more than 600 technology companies.
“In one quick place, it’s a way to show how expansive our ecosystem, our universe, really is,” said Tim Porter, managing director at Madrona. “ … We think it’s just a great conversation piece for the community to look at who the major players are and who the new companies are.”
The map shows companies as stars and their relationship with other companies as constellations. In following this format, the map indicates which companies spawned from others, which businesses were acquired and who the major producers of new startups are in the area.
Madrona notes that the map is meant to be seen as a living document, and encourages people to reach out with connections they think should (or should not) be included.
Some quick points the map reveals that may surprise you:
• RealNetworks itself has been shrinking in size, but its alumni “solar system” continues to be one of the largest in the region.
• aQuantive, acquired by Microsoft in 2007, has its own strong network of spinoffs.
• The map shows 69 engineering centers established by companies based outside of the state.