Microsoft CRM Crystallized
line56.com | at | by Mike
Microsoft Great Plains believes Crystal Decisions can fill a few product gaps, as the software behemoth ramps up its CRM offerings for later this year. The companies signed an OEM and reseller agreement that will give Microsoft CRM customers access to Crystal Decisions' reporting, analysis and information delivery capabilities. For potential Microsoft CRM users, the announcement shows that Microsoft may be leading with customer needs -- that is, the company is serious about getting the technology right. By picking more open and familiar tools, rather than developing tools in-house, Microsoft may be shaking off some of its proprietary coils. "By announcing a strong reporting tool from the get-go, before they even come to market, is a good sign," Spang says.