Launching what it calls "the only CRM built on an enterprise cloud computing platform," Salesforce this week declared: "Cloud computing's unique model has enabled Salesforce CRM to easily and securely connect separate Salesforce CRM deployments, allowing companies to share sales leads, contacts, and company information, without the need for complex integration software." Launching Salesforce Winter '09, the company announced the free exchange of data between every company in its network.

Salesforce CRM has long evangelized the benefits of cloud computing. The new Force.com Sites technology will allow its customers to extend Salesforce CRM applications through the creation of interactive Web-to-lead forms, which will enable site visitors to signal interest in products and services via a Web site. Force.com Sites will also enable the quick and easy creation of campaign landing pages integrated directly with Salesforce CRM.

"As the leading best-of-breed CRM provider in the world, companies continue to look to salesforce.com to define CRM in the era of cloud computing," said George Hu, Executive Vice President marketing, applications and education at salesforce.com. "We're responding with more investment than ever across our three part CRM strategy - complete CRM for every customer touch point, leading-edge collaboration within and beyond the company, and flexible customization and integration via the Force.com platform. That's why our customers continue to set the industry standard for CRM success."