Microsoft Dynamics ERP (enterprise resource planning) and CRM (customer relationship management) users now have more flexibility in deploying the vendor's service pack updates, which are periodically released to address bug fixes and make feature improvements.
This week, Microsoft said it will now support prior service packs for 24 months after a new one is released, or until the end of the application's support lifecycle, which includes mainstream support for five years and extended support for another five years.
Previously, service packs received support for one year after the next one was released, or until the end of the product's support lifecycle.
The new rules also mean that support for some service packs that had already expired due to the 12-month limit will be reactivated, Microsoft said.
Full details of the support extensions are available on Microsoft's Web site.
Microsoft's move is just the latest conciliatory gesture by ERP vendors toward customers who are dealing with the recession.
Last week, Infor unveiled a new program that is supposed to make upgrades easier and more attractive for customers.