Hi Th30ry,

I joined MS.com in 2000 and over 11 years there built the infrastructure it lives on. When I started there was one server running the website and the database. When I left late last year I'd helped to built MS over three datacenters with more than 2000 servers of all flavours.

The code itself is huge, the engineering behind the code is huge. It may look simple, I promise you it isn't. Unlike other comparision sites MS is a real time screen scrape on steroids. MS use realtime data collection, fresh data collection direct from providers and partners as well as good old fashioned market research to build their logic.

Good luck with your idea - I'm sure you can build something but be realistic and remember that MS employs 150 developers alone.

Cheers
Rich

Hi Rich,

I have just joined a start-up incubator in Shanghai http://technode.com/2012/03/28/innovation-camp-the-new-internet-startup-accelerator-and-incubator-opens-in-shanghai/

I too am in the process of setting up an insurance price comparison site in China, but with the help of iCamp and the insurance technology company (ebao tech) to secure the partners necessary.

If you would be interested in discussing this further, please email me at michaelodwyer2010@hotmail.com

Regards,
Michael O'Dwyer.