What Does Microsoft Have Planned for LinkedIn?

Microsoft’s $26.2 billion acquisition of LinkedIn – the largest in its history has sparked off a wave of speculation about the software giant’s intentions.  While Microsoft has stressed that LinkedIn will retain its ‘distinct brand, culture and independence’, observers have said that the move could see Outlook, Office 365 and Exchange integrated with LinkedIn’s and aligned with its 430 million member network worldwide. Others see the move is an attempt to counteract the growing presence of Google and Facebook, especially with regards to advertising revenue.