Microsoft Restructuring

Microsoft has had a number of semi-autonomous divisions but wants to re-organize to benefit from a more centrally organized decision making process. This seems to be due to the transitioning of the industry to devices and services and not just software. Also, increasing competitive pressure seems to require divisions to work together better.

Ballmer today in effect jettisoned the longstanding divisional hierarchy that took shape under his mentor, company co-founder Bill Gates. Certain business functions, including finance, marketing and business development, will move out of separate divisions and into their own company wide groups with overarching senior execs.