The Worldwide leader in software Microsoft Corp. and the Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co. on Monday announced a strategic relationship for a next-generation dealer management system. Based on Microsoft Dynamics CRM, the two sides will blend dealer and customer relationship management and social collaboration tools into a solution that will help Nissan deepen its relationship with its customers and drive dealer sales. \"We look forward to working with Nissan to deliver a solution that effectively connects with their customers and to win in today \'s business environment while also helping organizations such as Nissan meet the specific needs of the automotive industry,\" said Kirill Tatarinov, president of Microsoft Business Solutions, in a written statement. Andy Palmer, executive vice president of the Yokohama-based Japanese automotive company, said that the company is seeking a solution to help meet its business needs, especially to better understand its customers and dealers. \"We are delighted to be working with Microsoft to deliver the next-generation dealer management system,\" said Palmer. The new system will initially be rolled out to Nissan\'s dealership networks in Japan and other strategic regions across the globe. It is said to be flexible enough to be customized for the needs of a specific country, region or automotive manufacturer.