Microsoft Adcenter: Google imitation is just flattery, not any lack of innovation

I was reading CNET's preview of Microsoft's new AdCenter competitor to Google Adwords, and it struck me that the campaign creation menu looked awfully familiar. So here's the question: is AdCenter an example of Microsoft innovation when they copy Google's ad creation sequence step for step? Just compare the screenshots below and decide for yourself. Note particularly the sequences at the tops of the pages.





[Microsoft AdCenter Screenshot]






[Google AdWords Screenshot]

Note to Microsoft: to win a marketing battle, you have to differentiate, not imitate.

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