Microsoft’s Blueprint Emphasizes Dynamics CRM Mobility—and Puts It Into Competition with Partners

Microsoft's new "Statement of Direction" white paper (download at the end of this article) for Dynamics CRM places a heavy emphasis on mobile CRM, to the extent that Microsoft indicates that it expects to compete with its partners in this arena.

"Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 customers today have a range of mobile options through the Microsoft partner network," the white paper states. "The mid and longer term strategy will provide mobile CRM solution options for customers both directly from Microsoft and through our partners. In the short term, Microsoft is providing two options for Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 customers. Firstly, there will be a new release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Mobile Express, which runs on any mobile device that supports HTML 4.0 browsing. Secondly, Microsoft has formed an alliance with Ten Digits to provide their mobile solution (MobileAccess 4.0) for both Microsoft Windows Mobile and Research-In-Motion (RIM) Blackberry customers at a cost-effective price."

In addition, Microsoft said it will be introducing at least two new upgrades to Microsoft Online before it introduces the next version of Dynamics CRM.

"Between now and the release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM ‘V.Next' there is a separate release timetable for Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online. Each release will add additional features and value to the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online platform. There are two releases of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online planned between now and the release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM ‘V.Next'."

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online Release 2 "will launch a multi-network search engine marketing module, where we will debut integration with Microsoft Ad Center." Components will include search engine keyword research, bid, and purchase; ad creation and placement; online lead tracking; and campaign performance measurement dashboards."

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online Release 3 "will ...