Microsoft is fleshing out its new Big Data strategy, paving its way to the land of Big Data opportunity.  Taking its efforts in the right direction, Microsoft is looking at its Windows Embedded group to play a key role in making it much more powerful, as it is entering the world of intelligent systems. The software giant is looking to contribute through embedded systems and devices instrumented with sensors. From there, the company is also planning to help enterprises retrieve data, analyze it, put it in the cloud, store it and monetize it.

Across the board, Microsoft will utilize its Windows Embedded business to extend enterprise software and cloud services out to everyday devices such as point of service (POS) terminals, in-car infotainment outlets, medical equipment and even bar-top game machines.

“With today’s pervasive network connectivity, the emergence of cloud services and low-cost yet high-powered microchips, traditional embedded devices can now connect and participate as part of a broader IT infrastructure and exchange real-time data all the way to the customer’s fingertips,” Windows Embedded General Manager Kevin Dallas said in a statement.

“Intelligent systems offer endless possibilities for organizations to collect and act on information in real time, from understanding customer buying habits to tracking product shipments around the globe.”

Dallas also made several other announcements like upcoming Windows Embedded Compact v.Next in the second half of 2012, with added support for Visual Studio 2010. It will also provide support for ARM architecture. Similarly, Windows Embedded Compact will continue to provide a proven, real-time operating system and a full tools suite for a streamlined development experience on small-footprint, specialized devices.

In the coming few months, Microsoft will also be offering a number of products for a few other known initiatives.  For instance, they’re developing an advanced machine-to-machine (M2M) connection manager “Pontecchio” to streamline the way devices connect to network services to make the data streams more efficient.

These are all important steps in building out Microsoft’s big data strategy, which has taken hold of many an enterprise-services provider.  From IBM to EMC, the flames are fanning on the product and marketing sides.  We’re seeing the need to push a big data strategy through the channels of efficiency a necessary strategy, and Microsoft’s not one to miss out.  Yahoo and others are jumping forward with enterprise-ready products for commercialization, and the pressure’s on for Microsoft to deliver as well.