Everybody wants online communities these days, and Microsoft is no exception - they have launched MSN Filter, a group of five blogs geared to those interested in TV, Music, Technology, Sports, and (a rather general category) Lifestyle. According to adams space, one key objective is to “create more of a dialog with the online community and build a closer relationship with consumers”.

We’ve been saying for years that businesses need to eliminate the barriers that separate them from their consumers, and that online communities are one powerful way to do that. It remains to be seen how much of an impact these topical blogs will have, and whether vibrant communities will develop around them. Still, it’s a step in the right direction for a company that is simultaneously trying to shed the “evil empire” label and gain mindshare in consumer entertainment markets.

Irony du Jour: An amusing entry in the Technology Filter points out that its launch coincides with the kick off of PC-Turnoff Week.

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