Microsoft creates .NET division

NEWS Microsoft is setting up a .NET division to focus on bringing its internet software and services strategy to fruition. The unit will be headed-up by former group vice-president, Bob Muglia. President and CEO, Steve Ballmer, made the announcement late yesterday in the US, naming the division the .NET Services Group. According to Ballmer, Bob Muglia's responsibility will be to develop a user interface as well as software and subscription services for all users - from consumers and business customers through to developers. Muglia's management team will include Kai-Fu Lee, who will be charged with developing the next generation user interface. Meanwhile, senior vice president, David Cole, will lead the Personal Services Platform Division, building back-end services for MSN and .NET. Overall, the .NET Services Group will come under the umbrella of the recently set up Personal Services and Devices Group (PSDG), led by Group Vice President, Rick Belluzzo.