Microsoft announced several months ago a new software service called "Windows Live". I will start this blog by answering the question, "what exactly is Windows Live"?

My view is that Windows Live targets two main audiences, consumers and developers. For consumers, Windows Live offers a set of services that enrich online communication, including email, IM, and blogging, among other things. There's no better place than ideas.live.com to see the list of new services offered under the Windows Live brand. Earlier this month CNet featured Top 10 Windows Live services.

For developers, Windows Live offers a new software platform on which third-party services can be built. Developers can go to dev.live.com and Windows Live Developer Center to see the list of APIs that are available to them. Though the API is not yet as extensive as I think it should be, I believe the Windows Live platform offers a whole new opportunity especially for individual developers and small businesses.