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Why Microsoft finally 'gets' the Web

Jesse Berst AnchorDesk

Published: 17 Nov 1999 16:35 GMT

For years, I've been wincing at MSN's silly, sophomoric Web efforts. Remember the original, proprietary version that was incompatible with the Internet? Or Mungo Park, the exotic travelogue? Or all those cheesy, Hollywood-esque shows? So I was prepared for the worst recently when the company invited me on campus to preview MSN's new features.

What a pleasant surprise. MSN has finally stumbled on a strategy that suits its strengths. Better yet, it's a strategy that suits its audience. One that focuses on helping people get stuff done. MSN doesn't have it exactly right. Not yet, at least. But I expect MSN to gradually improve. It may even catch up to America Online and Yahoo in utility and value (if not in subscribers).

MSN has finally figured out that productivity is key to the Web experience. Three examples:

Integrated message center. As soon as you log on to MSN, you'll be able to glance at your personal message center to see if you have new mail, new chat activities and to see which of your friends is online. Improved personalization. You can reconfigure the MSN home page to work for you. Choose a favorite color scheme or tweak the layout. Type in your zip code and get local news and weather updates. Add your time zone and receive info on local events. Indicate which special-interest content you'd like to see regularly.