Microsoft Dynamics 365 was launched in 2016, when Microsoft created a seamlessly integrated solution that brought together Dynamics AX, its ERP application, and the Dynamics CRM application. Today, across various sectors and around the world, organizations are using the power of Dynamics 365 to adapt to an ever-evolving market environment and bring innovation into their business.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is essentially a combination of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software, with the added advantage of Power BI reporting functions. While CRM is focused on the customer, ERP focuses on the business and its operations. Both systems enable the company-wide sharing of information.
Let’s begin with a brief overview of Microsoft Dynamics 365 before we get into what makes it tick all the right boxes with businesses across the globe.
Often, enterprise software solutions require the use of specific data handling techniques and database format which is unique to the software with which it is intended to be used, which restricts its compatibility with other external apps. It can also be quite challenging to integrate and upgrade customised databases. To solve this issue, Microsoft developed standardised and consistent database schematics, where their customer base can easily integrate any new solution that Microsoft brings out under the scope of Dynamics 365. Thus, the Common Data Model allows for the integration with all Microsoft applications, and also any other applications using a standard API.
There are several ways in which organizations can choose to use the features of Microsoft Dynamics 365:
Customer data from Microsoft Dynamics 365, Office 365 and other third-party data sources can be combined, and actionable insights from that data can be gained. This module also offers Power BI for analytics and visualisation of data. Artificial intelligence tools can further be used to discern consumer behaviour patterns and trends, which can result in generating predictive data.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers businesses multi-channel tools to engage with their prospective and existing customers. It includes tools for self-service or self-care portals, and also tools for community engagement and support agents.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 can be used for the proper planning and scheduling of resources, managing contracts & inventory, gaining valuable insights into the internet of things - connected products and customer communication tools.
Another essential feature is the financial management capability, which includes all the necessary reporting and analytics tools. It also offers manufacturing tools for production planning, project management, cost management and scheduling. Users also get access to warehouse and inventory control tools for optimum supply chain management.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 seamlessly links up the Dynamics CRM with Adobe Marketing Cloud to deliver campaign management capabilities, and personalised marketing tools that cater to every organization’s unique needs and audiences.
With Microsoft Dynamics 365, businesses can automate project planning, resource scheduling, time and cost management, and service analytics all in one go.
Retail businesses can combine store and employee management, business tools, merchandise management and operational insights with ease.
The sales module of Microsoft Dynamics 365 provides clear insights into prospective customer sources, sales productivity and performance metrics, and personalisation of service and customer engagement data on platforms such as Magento and Shopify.
Human resource cloud services can be easily connected to LinkedIn to effortlessly manage all aspects of HR, including attracting, hiring, and onboarding new employees, and managing HR activities and programs.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is offered in two main variations -
The Business Edition for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs or SMBs)
This version is recommended for companies with 100 to 250 employees and comes with 3 modules - Finance & Operations, Sales, and Marketing.
The Enterprise Edition for medium to large-sized organisations
This edition offers Dynamics CRM applications as well as Microsoft PowerApps, and also includes Microsoft’s cutting-edge ERP solution, Dynamics 365 for operations. It comes with a full 8 modules, which are Finance & Operations, Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Project Service, Field Service, Talent, and Retail.
There are several reasons why Microsoft is the preferred choice In Business Solutions for companies worldwide. Let’s see what some of the important ones are:
Innovation - Microsoft is consistently one of the heaviest investors in R&D among global software and computer service companies. Microsoft Business Applications deliver superior user experiences that make employees feel like the technology is working for them, and not vice versa.
Cloud First - Microsoft was the pioneer of running operations on the cloud, and it remains strongly committed to this approach, with their 3-cloud investment which includes Azure, Dynamics 365, and Office 365.
Reliable - In Microsoft’s own words - “If we can’t protect people’s privacy, we don’t deserve their trust.” They live up to this statement by providing top-of-the-line data security, privacy, and compliance.
Open - Microsoft Dynamics 365 workloads are so incredibly customizable, open and flexible that they can be tailored to suit every organization’s specific needs, no matter how unique.
Seamless Integration - The Microsoft Business stack can be seamlessly integrated with several applications, including proprietary legacy technologies that many companies are already using. The ability to seamlessly integrate means that companies don’t have to spend lots of time, energy, and money in connecting new solutions to existing systems.
Trust - Microsoft is consistently recognized as best-in-class by international rating agencies like Forrester, Gartner, and IBC. They have gained the trust of over 90% of Fortune 500 companies, and millions of small businesses worldwide.
In conclusion, Microsoft Dynamics 365 is an excellent toolkit that allows for the integrated management of customers and the organization alike, through a collection of apps that function as a well-oiled machine and an integrated whole.
If you are looking to take your business to the next level with the power of cutting-edge technology and innovative digital solutions, reach out to our team of experts and we will make it happen!
