For the past several months, Microsoft’s Windows Embedded Business has discussed the emergence of intelligent systems that can extend enterprise software and cloud services out to everyday devices. From the device to the cloud and back again, intelligent systems represent the intersection of technology and society by realizing the conceptual Internet of Things.

The opportunity is a big one, and under the direction of general manager Kevin Dallas, the Windows Embedded team has mapped out a strategy to help customers and partners make the most of it. Using new agile development methods, Windows Embedded delivers platforms and tools for hardware and software manufacturers to create intelligent systems that harness business intelligence in the enterprise.

"Intelligent systems offer endless possibilities for organizations to collect and make use of information," Dallas says, "from understanding customer buying habits to tracking product shipments around the globe."

Integrating tightly with Windows 8, Windows Embedded will help drive the innovation in intelligent systems. As part of the discussion, Microsoft recently laid out its plans for the Windows Embedded Enterprise, Windows Embedded Standard and Windows Embedded Compact platforms. Some highlights: