Microsoft Acquires FAST

Hello all of my search junkies, I have a great announcement to share, Microsoft is looking to acquire FAST.  This is an important step that not only shows how Microsoft is investing but also how important Enterprise Search is you and your business.  As with past acquisitions Microsoft will continue to honor existing customers, for more questions contact your local Microsoft Account Executive..

The full announcement can be found here:

Microsoft Announces Offer to Acquire Fast Search & Transfer

While there is not a lot to share with everyone right now due to the very early nature of the acquisition cycle, here are some cliff notes:

• Microsoft Corp. yesterday announced its intent to acquire Fast Search & Transfer ASA (OSE: FAST), a leading provider of enterprise search solutions. FAST™ was recently named the most visionary firm in the 2007 Gartner Information Access Magic Quadrant. The company is traded on the Oslo Stock Exchange and has offices on six continents, including a worldwide headquarters in Oslo, Norway and strong US operations based out of Needham, MA.
• This offer is subject to shareholder and regulatory approval. During this time, FAST™ remains a separate company and customers should not notice any change in service. It is ‘business as usual’ for both Microsoft and FAST™.
• FAST is a a key partner in the Enterprise Search space and their level of expertise can bring significant value to customers and partners.  
  See them in Action here:  
  Using Embedded Search to Manage eDiscovery and Global Regulatory Compliance

Happy Searching everyone or should I say Happy FAST Searching.  :-)