Oracle plans to launch within the next 12 months an upgrade of the Siebel CRM On Demand software for managing sales and customer information.

The new version is the 14th release of the software-as-a-service product in three and a half years, Oracle said. The latest upgrade contains new features for easier use, more advanced customization, and more comprehensive integration options.

On the ease-of-use side, Oracle said it has leveraged new Web development methods, such as Ajax, to build a browser-based interface with fewer navigation steps, mouse clicks and page refreshes. In addition, users can arrange elements on their homepage, including lists, history, and favorites, to suit the way they work.

Oracle has also expanded the software's configuration options, making it possible to embed best practices, streamline data entry, and configure layouts for different types of records. For integration with other applications and systems, Oracle provides its Fusion middleware, which includes some connectors, and the option of customizing what's available.

Siebel CRM On Demand competes with Salesforce.com, the leader in online customer-relationship management system. Release 14 is set for release within the next 12 months. Pricing starts at $70 per user per month.