Microsoft Launches Cloud-based CRM Online

Microsoft has launched the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online cloud service which will be available in India with a Hindi interface. The company is offering a 30-day trial to both customers and partners.

Microsoft has also launched an aggressive program to convert Salesforce.com and Oracle customers to Dynamics CRM Online. Customers who switch over to CRM Online before June 30, 2011 will receive an incentive of up to $200 per user, which can be used for availing services such as migrating data or customizing the solution.

The cloud offering is the first to feature the latest 2011 version of Dynamics CRM and is available at a promotional price of $34 per user per month for the first 12 months to customers that sign up before June 30, 2011. The on-premise and the partner-hosted versions will be launched on February 28, globally.

“With cloud computing becoming increasingly popular, Indian businesses are re-evaluating their CRM systems to ensure that they are getting the best fit for their business and most value from their IT investment,” said Subhomoy Sengupta, Group Director, Microsoft Dynamics India. "I am confident that this offering will add immense value to businesses across functions like sales, services and marketing by providing simplicity and enabling innovation for customers."

Microsoft claims that globally more than 11,500 customers, including those that converted from competing solutions and 2,000 partners have used Dynamics CRM 2011 as part of the beta program.

The 2011 release offers flexible cloud development, Azure interoperability, and contextual SharePoint capabilities. It also features the new Dynamics Marketplace that allows customers and partners to find qualified service providers online.

WhAT IS CLOUD COMPUTING : CONCEPT ?

Cloud computing is a technology that uses the internet and central remote servers to maintain data and applications. Cloud computing allows consumers and businesses to use applications without installation and access their personal files at any computer with internet access. This technology allows for much more efficient computing by centralizing storage, memory, processing and bandwidth.

A simple example of cloud computing is Yahoo email or Gmail etc. You dont need a software or a server to use them. All a consumer would need is just an internet connection and you can start sending emails. The server and email management software is all on the cloud ( internet) and is totally managed by the cloud service provider Yahoo , Google etc. The consumer gets to use the software alone and enjoy the benefits. The analogy is , 'If you only need milk , would you buy a cow ?' All the users or consumers need is to get the benefits of using the software or hardware of the computer like sending emails etc. Just to get this benefit (milk) why should a consumer buy a (cow) software /hardware ?

Cloud computing is broken down into three segments: "applications," "platforms," and "infrastructure." Each segment serves a different purpose and offers different products for businesses and individuals around the world. In June 2009, a study conducted by VersionOne found that 41% of senior IT professionals actually don't know what cloud computing is and two-thirds of senior finance professionals are confused by the concept, highlighting the young nature of the technology. In Sept 2009, an Aberdeen Group study found that disciplined companies achieved on average an 18% reduction in their IT budget from cloud computing and a 16% reduction in data center power costs.