When I worked with Microsoft (through BNR) to update and teach their new Windows 8 design principles, my Microsoft partner and I built a new app from the ground up to show the app design steps in our lectures. Each faux product they create is branded Contoso. So we made Contoso Cookbook.
It was definitely the best way to understand the platform, and although it was a difficult project in many ways, I’m really glad I was a part of it. I mean, they did send me all over the world to teach the course, so no complaints here 🙂
Brandy Porter 