Microsoft reorganizes its Windows division

REDMOND, Wash., March 23 (UPI) -- U.S. software giant Microsoft Corp. said it was reorganizing its Windows division, a move that comes after a costly delay in rolling out its Vista program.

The company said Thursday it was restructuring its Platforms & Services Division and "enhancing" the leadership team.

At the heart of the changes is the elevation of Steven Sinofsky to senior vice president of the Windows and Windows Live Group.

"Steven's leadership, management and technical skills are well documented and evident in the kinds of products he ships and the type of work environment he creates," said Ray Ozzie, Microsoft's chief technology officer.

"I'm looking forward to working with Steven and his team in delivering software-based services that extend the value of our offerings by providing a more seamless connection between our desktop products and the Web."

Analysts estimate that Microsoft's delays in releasing the next generation of its operating system, known as Vista, have cost it about $500 million.