Damn! I don't know if I can explain how a snippet like that makes me feel. It's something like getting a scribbled note back from a forgotten carrier pigeon launched long ago...

The people using the site in that video come from a different world. In this video, not only are they being taught to use the Kiva website, they are being taught to use a computer. Before they learn how to type in their email address as their username, they need to be taught what an email address IS. Before you teach them how to upload a picture, they will need to hold a camera for the very first time. The video illustrates the incredible distance we live from most people in rural Uganda. It also shows how such people are just a few short steps from being totally connected to this world.

Let's put this stunning piece in context. It comes from Cale Thompson and Jon Rodriguez -- two Microsoft-funded researchers part of Microsoft's "Digital Inclusion" program. Cale and Jon come from a design background and are based out of Holland. Late last year, we began collaborating on how they could help improve how Kiva is working with partners in Africa. Next thing I knew they were awarded a grant and were buying tickets to Kampala. Moses picked them up and they are venturing around East Africa watching people use Kiva. Their question is of the most open-minded sort, and it will be fascinating to see what they learn. Suggestions might range from better use of mobile technology, to website design improvements, to simple training changes.

Watching this video hammers home the challenges we face in scaling our business. Facing the challenge is worth it, and luckily we are not facing it alone anymore. We have players like Cale, Jon, Microsoft and more to help us with these mountains.

Now go read Cale and Jon's Blog from the beginning.