Microsoft is google-eyed about advertising -- ADTmag

Microsoft is google-eyed about advertising

March 16, 2006

By ADT Staff

Microsoft has begun testing display advertisements across Microsoft Office Live, Windows Live Mail and MSN Spaces.

"Advertising is a very important business model for Microsoft worldwide because an increasing number of advertisers are becoming more global," says Joanne Bradford, corporate vice president for Global Sales and Marketing at Microsoft. "With ad-supported software opportunities, we're able to offer great services at low or no cost for our consumers and a vast ecosystem for advertisers."

Coca-Cola Brazil, JCPenney and Monster Worldwide are among the 20 global marketers participating in the initial ad tests. The results of the multiple ad formats being tested will help determine which ad offerings provide the best return on investment for marketers while adding value to the consumer experience.

"Taking part in the Windows Live Mail beta program is something that perfectly matches Coca-Cola's day-by-day attitude," says Monica Horcades, marketing director for Coca-Cola Brazil. "We understand that one of the most important roles of a global brand like us is to believe, support and stimulate innovation in communication of all kinds, especially on the Web. Coca-Cola has always been a pioneer on talking to young people wherever and whenever they are. It's in our brand's DNA. And we believe that Windows Live Mail is going to be a great way to do that."

Windows Live display ads are currently being tested in MSN Spaces in Australia and Italy, and Windows Live Mail display ads are being tested in various markets across the world including Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United Kingdom and the United States. Office Live display ads are initially being tested in the U.S. and immediately sold out of their available openings for beta advertisers. Tests will continue on these and other Microsoft sites and services throughout 2006 while additional research is underway with approximately 100 advertisers in nine markets to verify advertisers' needs and best practice advertising solutions for Windows Live.

Microsoft says it will continue to invest heavily in MSN.com, as well as continue to explore new advertising opportunities on Live.com, OfficeLive.com, Microsoft.com, the Xbox Live service, Internet Protocol television, mobile devices and other Microsoft properties.