Microsoft Delivers First Service Update to Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online (CRM hosted by Microsoft) is not yet available outside US and Canada. However it’s good to keep track of its developments …

… Microsoft Corp. today released the first service update for Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online, just four months after it was first made generally available this year. The release includes new features that will enable businesses to create, monitor and optimize Internet marketing campaigns quickly and efficiently, all from within their existing CRM environment. The September 2008 Service Update is available to customers at no charge.

“Today’s release underscores our commitment to rapid innovation,” said Brad Wilson, general manager of Microsoft Dynamics CRM at Microsoft. “Our first service update is significant for its new functionality, scale and additional value it provides our customers at no additional cost.”

The Internet marketing capabilities allow businesses to utilize the Internet as a revenue-generating marketing channel and an integral part of their CRM strategy, especially in conducting search engine marketing (SEM) campaigns. The new Internet marketing functionality will enable organizations to do the following:

• Create and manage online and search engine campaigns
• Research and bid on key words using search engine optimization
• Gain insight into marketing return on investment according to click-through and conversion rates
• Capture sales leads from the Web using pages hosted by Microsoft or the organization’s own Web site
• Unify search engine intelligence with CRM analytics to optimize campaign performance

“This update will help customers maximize marketing returns from online advertising spending by allowing them to monitor and measure the effectiveness of online ad campaigns,” said David J. Buggy, vice president of Beringer Associates Inc., a Gold Certified Microsoft Partner. “Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online’s automatic update means we’re able to take advantage of advances like this on a far quicker cycle, so we don’t have to worry about being left flat-footed by changes in business.” …

Source : Microsoft PressPass