Microsoft challenges Salesforce.com with cloud-based CRM

Wednesday, January 19, 2011

The competition between major IT vendors heated up recently when Microsoft announced the global launch of its cloud-based customer relationship management software, Dynamics CRM Online.

As of January 17, the new platform is available in 40 countries in 41 languages, as Microsoft attempts to steal away customers from its competitors, including Salesforce.com and Oracle.

New users who sign up for Dynamic CRM Online by June 30 will be able to access the service for a promotional price of $34 per user, per month. Comparatively, users can access Saleforce.com's Professional and Enterprise editions for $65 and $125 per month, respectively, and Oracle CRM on Demand for $75 per month.

Microsoft stated its Dynamic CRM Online has been closely integrated with Outlook, ensuring familiarity for customers.

"This product is really focused on helping people be more productive, handle more customer situations more fluidly, and get the most value out of the resources they're already using," said Brad Wilson, general manager of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Product Management Group.

Salesforce.com, however, didn't take long to respond to Microsoft. Following Microsoft's announcement, Salesforce.com issued a statement which highlighted a number of high-profile customers, including Comcast-Spectacor and JVL Corporation, that use Salesforce CRM rather than Dynamics CRM.