Microsoft in an attempt to try and promote more sales of the Microsoft Office Suite, is attempting to integrate third-party CRM packages such as Siebel into Microsoft Outlook and other parts of the suite.
Check out the full Cnet story here:
Microsoft turns to Elixir for Office boost | CNET News.com
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I think Microsoft has no need to promote their product by the use of third party coz they are already so famous and need not of any third class party but it is increase to their sales which is a market trend.