SmallBusinessNewz

You've probably heard by now that Microsoft and Yahoo have announced a big search advertising deal which will see Yahoo Search using Bing results, and Microsoft using Yahoo's advertising. The two players in the search industry have essentially combined to take on Google.

If you ask me, they have a long way to go to accomplish that, but the partnership does make for a more attractive advertising opportunity than either Microsoft or Yahoo had in the past? Why, because they are combining their market share, and that means a wider audience.

The Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council says the deal will bring much-needed competition to the marketplace.

"The Microsoft/Yahoo! deal is another example of businesses seeking ways through the private marketplace to better serve consumers, including small businesses that increasingly rely on and benefit from advancements in online search technologies and competition," says Raymond J. Keating, chief economist for SBE Council.

"For good measure, if consumers find value in what the Microsoft/Yahoo! team bring to the market, then the resulting growth will expand opportunities for entrepreneurs and small firms that work with and serve Microsoft and Yahoo!. This deal holds the potential for some exciting developments and opportunities in the online arena," Keating adds.

What do you think about the deal? How will it impact your advertising strategy? Share your thoughts.