Dynamics ERP, CRM Revenue Rise as Microsoft Reports Lower Revenue, Profit in First Quarter

Microsoft reported revenue and earnings today that came in lower than in 2011, with GAAP revenue of $16B (down 8%), operating income of $5.4B (down 26%) and earnings per share of $.053 (down 22%).

In an earnings statement the company's focus remains the launch of WIndows 8 (much as it has at this week's Microsoft Dynamics AX, GP, NAV, and CRM user group events). 

"The launch of Windows 8 is the beginning of a new era at Microsoft," said Steve Ballmer, chief executive officer at Microsoft. "Investments we've made over a number of years are now coming together to create a future of exceptional devices and services, with tremendous opportunity for our customers, developers, and partners."

The Microsoft Business Division, home of the Dynamics suite, posted $5.50 billion in first-quarter revenue, a 2% decrease from the prior year period. But Microsoft Dynamics outperformed its division, with a 6% increase in revenue. And Microsoft Dynamics CRM revenue grew by more than 30%.

Microsoft CFO Peter Klein point to a slowdown in PC demand ahead of the Windows 8 launch as one cause for the weaker performance. 

In a statement, Klein added that "[m]ulti-year licensing revenue grew double-digits across Windows, Server & Tools, and Microsoft Business Division products as businesses commit to our technology roadmap."

Last quarter, Microsoft reported quarterly revenue of $18.06 billion for the quarter ended June 30, 2012, a 7% increase from the prior year period, but also reported its previously disclosed loss per share of $.06 due to a $6 billion write down on an earlier software acquisition.