Microsoft
Dynamics CRM is increasingly becoming an application platform for decidedly
non-marketing uses.

As such, it
boasts Microsoft’s best practices for database optimization, workflow, instant
messaging, authentication, .NET customization, and higher levels of business
data abstraction. 

xRM applications
are line of business (LOB) applications that use Dynamics CRM’s database,
architecture, and business entities in combination with custom business
application logic and user interfaces to rapidly develop new applications that
may look nothing like a traditional CRM system.  xRM applications do not require a new database scheme, new
architecture, security, or many of the other time consuming and complicated
software challenges that would go into a fully custom application. 

In a recent interview, Microsoft officials Bill Patterson, director of worldwide product management; and Jamie Fiorda, group product manager, identified several
examples of unusual applications of Dynamics CRM:

— A New Zealand
organization of guide dogs for blind individuals uses Dynamics CRM to match dogs with
individuals in need. Dynamics CRM keeps track of key attributes of both guide
dogs and blind individuals to help the organization speed the process of making
the best possible matches.

–The North
Carolina Department of Crime Control and Public Safety is using Dynamics CRM to
manage applications for alcohol and lottery permits. Prior to implementing Dynamics
CRM, the paper-based process required at least a week just to complete
inspections. Agent productivity for completing inspections has increased 80%
with use of Dynamics CRM.

–A state
attorney general’s office is using Dynamics CRM for management of its coroner’s
office. Dynamics CRM speeds up paperwork, and ensures that the right bodies are
matched with the correct criminal and other cases.

–Child Focus, a
Belgian organization that tracks missing children,