This past Wednesday, Google introduced a new tool for Microsoft Windows/Office users: Google Calendar Sync.  The application allows you to synchronize your Microsoft Office Outlook calendar with your Google account calendar. 

The people have been clamoring for an official synchronization tool from Google for some time now and it’s finally being delivered.

As you can see from the screenshot over on the right, you have three different options for synchronization: 1) 2-way, sync both your Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook events with each other" 2) 1-way, "sync only your Google Calendar events with Microsoft Outlook calendar" 3) 1-way, "sync only your Microsoft Outlook events with Google Calendar."

It’s a great tool to have, there’s no question about that, but it’s not quite enough for some people.  Personally, I still plan on using Plaxo’s free synchronization service which includes a toolbar for use inside Microsoft Outlook.  In addition, the Plaxo service enables you to synchronize not only your calendar but your tasks and contacts as well – and do so with MULTIPLE other products and services including Google, Windows Live, Windows Mail, Outlook Express, AOL/AIM, and Mac OS X.  You’re also not limited to using one account per service with Plaxo (i.e., Plaxo can synchronize your Outlook calendar to your personal AND business Google, etc. accounts.)