Microsoft on Tuesday showcased examples of how government organizations are using the recently announced Microsoft Dynamics CRM to improve citizen services, reduce operational costs and boost productivity. Unveiled yesterday by Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online is the cloud service of the new Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 solution that is helping both public and private-sector organizations respond to the people they serve efficiently.

In order to achieve aggressive goals around transparency, cost reductions and moving IT to cloud computing, many state, local and federal leaders are turning to commercial off-the-shelf-based solutions that are geared to aid in public-sector missions. Through the deployment of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online, government agencies reap the flexibility, scalability and cost savings that a cloud-based solution offers, in addition to improved access to real-time data. Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online provides the foundation to assist across many aspects of government scenarios - from grants management and 3-1-1 citizen response to Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and intra-agency tasking. In addition, it gives agency personnel the familiar Microsoft Outlook experience, browser and mobile access to their information, a RoleTailored design, and advanced user personalization to help them increase their productivity.

"Often, our government customers' first experience with the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online platform sparks the imagination and appetite to tackle other business challenges," said Senior Director - Public Sector Amir Capriles at Microsoft. "The return on investment is realized very quickly due to the ease of user adoption and the ability to invest once and leverage the many applications available to government."