Microsoft Business Solutions showcases the power of ERP and new CRM applications to local business executives

The forum was held to demonstrate to organizations how Microsoft Business Solutions can help automate processes, enable businesses to make more profitable decisions, and accelerate growth. The event also marks the official customer launch of Microsoft Business Solutions CRM application. Speakers from Microsoft, it's partners and independent industry analysts discussed the benefits that solutions like Great Plains and CRM can bring to organizations in the region.

'Many businesses find that they face a daunting job managing their resources and business data effectively. To run a company effectively, managers need a powerful solution, that provides them with accurate and timely business intelligence and financial management, but most applications on the market don't really match the needs of mid-market businesses-they're too expensive and customers end up paying for functionality that they will never need,' said Soha Kamal, Regional Products Group Manager, Microsoft Business Solutions.

'Designed for rapid time-to-benefit and low cost of ownership, Microsoft Business Solutions-Great Plains offers integrated solutions that support critical business processes and collaborative information management. By delivering unparalleled access to decision-driving information, by providing you with a fast ROI, and by supporting you with the finest customer service in the world, Great Plains helps you grow and manage your business better,' Kamal added.

The Microsoft Business Solutions Forum was the last in a series of events to launch Microsoft CRM around the region. Finance managers, sales, and marketing managers and other executives attended events in Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar and Saudi Arabia

More and more businesses in the region are looking for solutions that give them insight into vital customer data as well as employee and business performance information, to help them serve customers more effectively. Microsoft CRM provides a powerful solution that integrates with existing business applications, is quick and easy to set up and run, and offers users a low initial cost and fast return on investment. Microsoft expects the market for these applications to bloom in the Middle East as the customers' needs and requirements develops and matures.

'There is enormous potential in the region for ERP and CRM applications. Many companies are out-growing straightforward accounting packages, and need more powerful tools to give them a better understanding of their business and their customers. Microsoft Great Plains is the perfect solution for these businesses, and the positive response that we have had from the executives attending our events over the past few weeks show that customers are interested in what is on offer,' said Kamal.