Microsoft Business Solutions has given reporters and analysts the first look at its new CRM package, CRM 1.2, claiming significant enhancements over its existing package. Due for general release in August, the new pack will come as a value addition to the current package rather than a paid for extension.

According to a Microsoft spokesperson there are two areas where improvements have been made, with closer integration with Microsoft Office 2003 and availability of Microsoft CRM Mobile 1.2. The recently announced Information Bridge Framework is said to be the key between the new depths of interface with the Office package.

The mobile side of the package has been made to allow the transfer of info on critical customer information to sales and management personnel whenever and wherever they need it. Features include contact management and opportunity management capabilities on Pocket PC 2003 devices.

Microsoft Business Solutions are hoping that their new software will sell to customers by establishing more powerful relationships with customers, said a Microsoft spokesperson.

'Our customers take their investments in technology very seriously, and Microsoft CRM helps them maximize those investments by providing opportunities to closely integrate with existing Microsoft solutions,' she told SM365.