Microsoft is gradually changing its strategic approach to Web 2.0 and they have launched a site that tentatively called Listas. Listas, still a dream project at Microsoft’s lab, is designed to let their Live users to create lists that can be kept to themselves or share to the Listas community. As I visited the Listas site, it’s no different from any other Web 2.0 site. On the landing page, you’ll find a tag cloud in the right-hand corner that include the top tags that used by Listas users such as art, books, business, humor and etc. Click on any tag will bring you to a succinct list created by the existing Listas users where you can find more information about users’ profiles, and when the lists were modified by the owners. If you find any list that may interest you, you’re allowed to copy, create a link to it, or export the list as well. Perhaps, for the purpose of widen the reach or to satisfy some of the Listas rabid users, Microsoft also developed a Listas toolbar. This toolbar can help a user adding her favorite things, Web pages, links in an easy manner.

Microsoft, considered as a late-mover that trying to catch the wave, but this does not stop them in creating a site that their users loved. Read a user create a list of “why I like Listas” will tell a story that resonates also help Microsoft believe in their Web 2.0 dream. My sense is that Microsoft has not been traditionally known as a strong Web 2.0 player but is seeking to change that perception. Better late than never.