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Microsoft realigns MSN
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December 3, 2001: 7:15 a.m. ET
Software maker said to reshuffle managers prior to new version.
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NEW YORK (CNN/Money) - In preparation for a new version of its MSN Internet browser to directly compete with America Online, Microsoft realigned its executive ranks last week, according to a published report Monday.
"As we look ahead to future versions of MSN, it's important that all of our MSN efforts are aligned," said a company-wide e-mail sent by Microsoft's chief executive, Steve Ballmer, according to the Wall Street Journal.
Ballmer added there are "many challenges ahead as we make the fundamental shift to subscription services, and as we compete with AOL for the hearts and minds of consumers," the paper reported.
AOL Time Warner (AOL: Research, Estimates) is the parent company of CNN/Money.com.
Ballmer assigned Senior Vice President David Cole as the head of Microsoft's MSN and Personal Services group, which includes the company's .NET, passport, natural language and consumer service initiatives, according to the Journal.
Cole's former boss, Bob Muglia, will be reassigned to Microsoft's database management operation, the paper reported.
In addition, Ballmer sent another e-mail to employees Thursday outlining how the company will implement the restrictions imposed in its antitrust settlement with the Justice Department, according to the Journal.
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Ballmer said Microsoft will form an internal compliance committee to oversee the company's operations, adding he takes the settlement "very seriously, and (I) am personally committed to making it a success and ensuring that everyone at Microsoft complies fully with the new terms," the paper reported.
Shares of Microsoft (MSFT: Research, Estimates) fell 63 cents Friday to close at $64.21. 
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