Microsoft's HailStorm initiative has been described as everything from a weapon aimed at America Online to a crucial component of the software giant's move to a subscription-based business model. But how, exactly, will HailStorm work, and where does Microsoft make money on the service? Don't ask Jim Allchin. Despite being among the top five executives at Microsoft and the man in charge of the company's crown jewels--the Windows operating system--even Allchin is unclear on HailStorm's business model and its revenue-generating potential. "I just don't think it's fleshed out yet," the Microsoft group vice president conceded in an interview with CNET News.com. "On the business side, there's a lot of thought that needs to happen. A lot of thought."
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