Avanade Online Services to Provide Dynamics CRM SaaS Solutions

On January 27^th, Avanade announced the launch of Avanade Online Services (AOS), a new business focused on SaaS offerings.

Avanade's first AOS offering is a hosted version of Microsoft Dynamics CRM that includes additional pre-configured functionality like rules-based user interfaces, field-level security, and integration with Microsoft SharePoint.

This new business is a response to what the Avanade saw as a market demand from companies wanting and needing to do more with less in these difficult economic times. AOS also offers the possibility of rapid deployment and reduced overhead. "Avanade Online Services meets these needs by offering outsourced applications, infrastructure, support and maintenance combined with Avanade's proven assets and expertise as a complete solution that lowers risk, reduces costs and speeds time to value", says Aziz Virani, executive vice president of Global Technologies and Solutions at Avanade.

The company also cites data from a recent (self-commissioned) study that indicates companies believe CRM and SaaS are critical differentiators and strategic weapons needed to grow and strengthen their competitive edge.

Avanade, which was founded in 2000 as a joint venture between Accenture (who currently maintains a majority ownership) and Microsoft, hopes to capitalize on their extensive Microsoft expertise and network of consultants to also provide customers with industry specific solutions, such as Wealth Management, Insurance, Case Management, Grants Management, and Salesforce Automation.

"Avanade has worked closely with us since the introduction of Microsoft Dynamics CRM to deliver outstanding services and solutions to our joint customers," said Brad Wilson, general manager of Microsoft Dynamics CRM. "AOS for Microsoft Dynamics CRM is the natural next step in providing customers with proven enterprise solutions globally that can lower costs and reduce risk."