Bing goes live, and people like it |
Connect with TechFlash on our Facebook page for all the latest technology news headlines and commentary, plus information and access to special events, photos from events, promotions and more.
Microsoft's new Bing search engine is now live, at www.bing.com. The site is getting a positive early reaction, and not just from Woz.
"Apparently Bing is Something of a Hit," is the headline on TechCrunch, rounding up a number of glowing comments from readers -- one of whom expresses surprise that Bing "doesn't suck." London's Daily Mirror also takes the site for a spin and finds some things to like.
"It’s attractive, and despite the absurdity of the name, it is short and easy to remember," the Mirror writes. "Search results looks just like they do in any big search engine, and on the plus side, we like the relevant search terms appearing in the left hand column: it’s certainly a quicker way to jog your memory than mincing around with the Google Wonder Wheel, even if it doesn’t appear for every term you search."
Microsoft is positioning the new site as a "decision engine," and one decision I need to make soon is which barbeque grill to buy for summer cooking. Here's how the search term "best gas barbecue grill" appears on Google, Yahoo and Bing.
Some subtle differences there, but overall it looks as if Bing is at least matching Google's relevance on that particular search term.
Of course, the real question is whether Microsoft, overall, can not just match Google but provide a better experience that attracts more users. Should be fascinating to see what happens to the company's search market-share numbers in the coming weeks and months.
If you get a chance to give Bing a spin, let us know what you think.
Earlier: Yep, it's official: Microsoft launches new Bing 'decision engine'
If you are commenting using a Facebook account, your profile information may be displayed with your comment depending on your privacy settings. By leaving the 'Post to Facebook' box selected, your comment will be published to your Facebook profile in addition to the space below.
Who's creating today's energy efficient buildings? Find out at the BetterBricks Awards, Feb. 16
BetterBricks Awards salute the individuals leading the way for high performance commercial buildings with an emphasis on energy efficiency. Join us as we recognize these standout green building professionals.
Award categories include: Advocate; Architect/Designer; Facility Manager/Operator; and Owner/Developer.
Keynote Speaker: Kevin Kampschroer, Director of U.S. GSA's Office of Federal High Performance Buildings. Kevin leads the U.S. General Services Administration's efforts in building sustainability and accelerating industry adoption of sustainable principles across all aspects of a building's life.
Register here by February 10!
If you are interested in buying a table, email Monica Alquist or call her at 206-876-5404.
The Triple Door Presents: The Atomic Bombshells "J'ADORE!: A Burlesque Valentine"
Seattle's reigning Burlesque super-troupe delivers a gorgeous and glittering VALENTINE featuring some of the Bombshells' most exhilarating acts to date. J'Adore! promises to celebrate l'amour with good humor, style, and a healthy dose of dazzle! Bring a friend, a lover, a family member, or a secret crush, and celebrate with the Valentine's Burlesque spectacular that will leave you shouting: "J'ADORE......The Atomic Bombshells!" The incomparable Jasper McCann emcees with high style and charm.
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
The Triple Door Presents: Bob Mould – See A Little Light: An Evening of Reading and Music
"Bob Mould. Those two words are synonymous with integrity. From Husker Du in the last century to right at this moment, Bob is the real deal, writing and playing music for music's sake. He's a great songwriter and performer. I have been a fan of Bob's for thirty years now with no end in sight." -Henry Rollins
Please visit www.thetripledoor.net for a full schedule of future performances.
Why Choose BDO for your SOC (previously SAS 70) Reports?
BDO’s experience in providing attestation services (SAS 70/SSAE 16, AT 101, AT 201, AT 601, etc.) to a broad range of industries, and our team of skilled professionals distinctly qualifies us to serve as your company’s Service Auditor. By leveraging the BDO global network of control specialists, we are poised to provide global services in more than 1,000 offices and across 119 countries. Many organizations find that investing in reports on controls may result in benefits, including:
• Increased client confidence
• Improved competitive advantage
• Minimization of frequent audits
• Streamlined business processes and controls
• Enhanced risk management
For detailed information contact Paul Martini at pmartini@bdo.com.