Most Innovative Software Leaders

In presenting the "Most Innovative" creative forces in software today, Ranker.com has come up with a list that contains some of the top business brands in the world - as well as some less-famous names that nonetheless are playing key roles in developing the technology that shapes the ways we work and play. But like much of the Web universe these days, this list is far from a finished work, as Ranker.com community users can go on the site to help update it. The list is refreshingly unpredictable: You may be surprised to learn that neither Apple nor Google are at the top. A certain software company from Redmond, Washington, that made Bill Gates a very rich man didn't even make the cut. (And, for the record, neither did Gates.) Debate the rankings and snubs as you will, because that's clearly part of the intent - and fun - here. But it's difficult to deny that the following 11 names have made a difference and will continue to inspire other thinkers to create tomorrow's great digital breakthroughs.