Industry news

Microsoft launch business social network

Microsoft has launched a social networking community for business customers, it has been reported.

The IT giant's Microsoft TownSquare will allow firms to interact with each other while sharing skills and expertise, according to ComputerWorld.

It is described by the website as being similar to Facebook and users can view profiles, upload pictures and connect with each other in groups.

Microsoft's staff have been using the site internally, which integrates news feeds and business workflow information, since January.

Simon Gautrey, the firm's group manager for audience marketing in the UK, said those who network are more than five per cent more successful than those who do not.

"It is commonplace now for our partners to network with one another and, as a result, pitch for bigger contracts where often a multitude of skills are needed to respond to a customer's needs," he added.

The firm announced recently its chairman Bill Gates will step down from his day-to-day role within the organisation this month.