CRM BRIEFS

META Group predicts CRM technology spending cuts for 2001; PeopleSoft and Sun Microsystems unite for a Web-based CRM application; ICT Group and Digitas Inc. sign a strategic alliance agreement.

CRM technology spending in 2001 will be deferred until the second half of the year, predicts META Group (Stamford, CT), as the current economic uncertainties cause companies' to focus on hard ROIs. In response, according to META, many vendors are offering increased discounts on software licenses to spur spending.

A strategic alliance to deliver a Web-based CRM application designed for the financial services and communications industries was announced by PeopleSoft Inc. (Pleasanton, CA) and Sun Microsystems Inc. (Palo Alta, CA).

CRM provider ICT Group, Inc. (Langhorne, PA), and Digitas Inc. (Boston) have signed a strategic alliance agreement. Through this partnership, the companies will deliver solutions for outsourced contact centers, hosted technology and specialized CRM consulting services.