I think Microsoft got Desktop Search right!

Despite occasional bursts of organizational frenzy, I've never bothered putting my emails and files into neatly structured folders - too much work and too damn inflexible.  So of course I was an early and happy adopter of Gmail and Google Desktop Search, with at least one browser tab open for Google Desktop at all times. But with my recent upgrade to Vista, which comes with integrated Windows Desktop Search, I've actually found myself switching away from a Google product to a Microsoft product.  Apart from the obvious in your face nature of the search box - a data point, if any are needed, that search has become a game of distribution - Windows Desktop Search integrates much better with Outlook, and my Inbox is mostly where I'm searching anyway.

A good job from Microsoft, and an encouraging sign that they'll be a credible foil for Google for a long, long time.  Better for both companies, for consumers, for startups and for investors!

Comments

[Aziz]

Vineet, have you tried Google's new release recently?
http://www.google.com/intl/en/press/pressrel/20082802_google_sites.html
http://www.google.com/apps/business/index.html

I can't believe this is not the main topic of conversation in web blogs right now. For the first time, if you look at the top of your GMAIL account you'll see a link, 'merge your Microsoft outlook work email accounts', or some similar message. I agree with you that the previous versions of google search and other work-related apps have been crude, and not very useful, when compared to Microsoft, but these new sync options, especially the calendar and work email sync, completely remove your need to ever use Microsoft OS or apps for your work data, and the sync process is incredibly streamlined.

I think Microsoft should be a lot more worried about this. A LOT MORE WORRIED!

I'm still using Microsoft apps, today, but I think tomorrow will be different. Significant change happens over time and Google holds a fully functional ecosystem for all my digital work needs, for the first time. They're also not restricted by my computer, and this is why I think Microsoft is going to start taking major losses soon. You don't need a new PC, just a browser. You don't need to buy a new OS or version of Office, just a browser. You don't need a hosting account, just a browser. You don't need IT, just Google, and that is the only scary part.

[Cruise-Information]

Desktop Search is my favorite thing about Vista. But my main reason for steering clear of the G-Man is privacy. I'd really rather they didn't have all my contacts, schedules, and --eek-- confidential documents.

Right now Mac is the bigger contender for my future business. My husband just switched and d*mn that thing is fast. Computer boots up straight into action, no time for the usual Windows coffee break.