Microsoft has updated its customer relationship management (CRM) software-as-a-service offering to allow customers to launch internet marketing campaigns from within the application.

The update is Microsoft's first since Dynamics CRM Online became generally available four months ago, and the enhancements will be available to customers at no extra charge.

Users will be able to create and manage online campaigns and gain an idea of the profit they are generating with click-through and conversion rates, Microsoft said in a statement.

Customers can also test key words using search engine optimisation, and capture sales leads from web pages hosted by Microsoft or their own organisation.

"This update will help customers maximise marketing returns from online advertising spending by allowing them to monitor and measure the effectiveness of online ad campaigns," said David Buggy, vice president of Beringer Associates, a Microsoft Gold Partner.