I came across the Microsoft Office Live site today, which marks Microsoft's new drive towards an ASP (Application Service Provider) model. The emphasis is on getting small business sites up and running, complete with domain name and email registration, which will be free even after the beta period. This is great news for those businesses that don't know where to start with regards to the web, especially when the domain name registered through Office Live can be transferred if/when they outgrow it!

On top of the basics there are other paid services, based on the Office suite, to aid your business to function. I was particularly keen to try the project and sales lead tools, but unfortunately for myself and other Kiwi's, it's not available this side of the world. Hopefully soon.