In May 2010, Microsoft announced the integration of its Office Live Workspace into Windows Live SkyDrive, aiming to streamline its cloud-based services and enhance user experience. (techcrunch.com)

Background and Context

Office Live Workspace, launched in 2007, provided users with online storage and sharing capabilities for documents, facilitating collaboration without the need for physical storage devices. However, it lacked features like in-browser document editing and real-time collaboration, which were becoming standard in cloud services. (en.wikipedia.org)

Windows Live SkyDrive, introduced in 2008, offered users 25 GB of free online storage and integrated seamlessly with other Windows Live services. The addition of Office Web Apps in 2010 allowed users to view and edit documents directly within their browsers, addressing the limitations of Office Live Workspace. (en.wikipedia.org)

The Merger Announcement

Microsoft's decision to merge Office Live Workspace into Windows Live SkyDrive was part of a broader strategy to unify its online services under the Windows Live brand. This consolidation aimed to provide users with a cohesive and feature-rich cloud experience, combining storage, document editing, and sharing capabilities in a single platform. (pcworld.com)

Implications and Impact
  • Enhanced User Experience: Users benefited from a unified interface, making it easier to manage documents and collaborate with others.
  • Increased Storage Capacity: The merger provided users with 25 GB of free storage, a significant upgrade from the previous 5 GB offered by Office Live Workspace. (datamation.com)
  • Integration with Office Web Apps: The integration allowed users to edit documents directly in their browsers, eliminating the need for desktop applications for basic tasks.
Technical Details

The migration process involved transferring all existing workspaces, documents, and sharing permissions from Office Live Workspace to Windows Live SkyDrive. Users were notified of the upgrade and provided with options to initiate the process manually or wait for the automatic upgrade. During the transition, all documents and permissions remained intact, ensuring a seamless experience for users. (techcrunch.com)

Conclusion

The merger of Office Live Workspace into Windows Live SkyDrive marked a significant step in Microsoft's cloud strategy, aiming to provide users with a more integrated and feature-rich online experience. By consolidating services, Microsoft addressed user needs for enhanced collaboration, increased storage, and seamless integration with Office applications.

References