Peoplesoft has released version 8.4 of its Web-based CRM software,
writes Antony Adshead.
The new version includes mobile, collaborative selling and
marketing modules, but analyst firm Gartner has warned that the
mobile synchronisation functions offered should only be taken up
with caution by early adopters.
The Peoplesoft Mobile CRM suite includes Mobile Fieldservice,
Mobile Sales and Mobile Sales for Wap Phones. This involves some
"next-generation" synchronisation software which a Gartner First
Take report says still needs to be proved in the field.
The synchronisation software automatically detects a user's data
needs according to their role in the organisation and adds
pertinent background information. The system is based on business
object synchronisation, rather than database transaction log
synchronisation, which is unstable if frequent updates are not
carried out.
While this could be the answer to creating a mobile saleforce and
may result in lower total cost of ownership due to its small
footprint, Gartner has warned potential users that the technology
is unproven.
Peoplesoft CRM 8.4 also includes the Collaborative Selling suite, a
sales solution that allows users to create real-time product and
services configurations through automated processes. It includes
both sales and manufacturing processes and aims to give users a
better understanding of customer behaviour. It comprises three
modules: Order Capture, Order Capture Self Service and
Configurator.
