If I was one of the dynamic duo over at Google with the news that Microsoft has now officially launched its self-serve adCenter service, I’d be starting to look over my shoulder. Yes, I know Google basically created the market, but then again, you could have said the same thing about Netscape a few years ago. When Microsoft finally makes up it’s mind about something, it doesn’t jerk around, and adCenter will a key part of the company's strategy to make significant inroads into the online advertising market. The program, similar to AdWords, allows advertisers to more efficiently target audience segments by letting companies bid on keywords that are typed into the MSN search engine. Should be an interesting year or so!
I don't want to stick my nose in your business, but the 800 pound gorilla is a friend of mine!
Geroge, well said. I have a feeling that Microsoft was sitting back all these years, taking notes, tweaking, adjusting...and waiting for the right time to offer some competition to Google.
As you said, it should be fun to watch AND to see how they'll sell their version to businesses. Great post.
Posted by: Dan Tudor | May 6, 2006 12:07 AM | Permalink to Comment