While Microsoft Dynamics 365 is one of the most popular ERP and CRM suites on the modern market, its predecessors such as Microsoft Dynamics AX and Microsoft Dynamics NAV also enjoyed great popularity. In fact, some of the previous editions of Microsoft ERP and CRM applications are still used today despite the discontinued support. Even though it may seem that one of these earlier systems developed by Microsoft is still sufficient for your business, your competitors may have already implemented the newest software featured with even more sophisticated functionality, which gives them a competitive edge on the market. If you do not want to miss out on anything, read this article to explore the benefits of a Dynamics 365 upgrade.
Ultimate ERP and CRM functionality
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is an ultimate solution aiming to meet the needs and requirements of businesses of different sizes, including large and medium-sized enterprises, regardless of their industry. With the help of dedicated applications included in the Microsoft Dynamics 365 suite, organizations can streamline numerous tasks and operations, including the following:
- Automation of financial operations, monitoring financial performance, and generating reports for data-driven decisions;
- Streamlining manufacturing and supply chain management;
- Sales pipeline management;
- Creating and running marketing campaigns as well as measuring their effectiveness;
- Enhancing customer support through the development of a proactive approach and personalizing customer experience;
- Optimizing resources for field services and effectively planning the work of technicians who deliver on-site services;
- Retail operation management;
- Optimizing workforce and HR processes.
Alternatively, Microsoft Dynamics 365 offers a condensed version of its most critical features collected in a single application aimed at smaller organizations known as Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Enhanced flexibility
As mentioned above, the ERP and CRM suite from Microsoft is comprised of numerous applications. While together they create a unified platform featured with rich business functionality, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 upgrade will also give you a chance to choose the exact applications your company needs and implement them. At the same time, whenever requirements change, you can flexibly add other applications or resign from the ones you find redundant.
Furthermore, the licensing system used by Microsoft Dynamics 365 is also flexible, as it determines the fees for the service based on the number of users and their privileges. This approach helps enterprises to avoid overpaying for functionality used only by a small group of employees.
Powerful analytics and IoT integration
Microsoft is constantly working on optimizing the analytical capabilities of its business applications. A Microsoft Dynamics 365 upgrade offers the most cutting-edge solutions for companies that would like to learn from their historical data, discover hidden trends, and make better-informed decisions.
In addition to that, Microsoft Dynamics 365 provides companies with IoT (Internet of Things) integration, particularly valuable for manufacturing companies allowing them to significantly enhance their asset management.
Continuous improvement and support
Unlike the previous versions of ERP and CRM suites, Microsoft Dynamics 365 is undergoing continuous development and receives regular updates and patches aiming to further enhance the work of its applications. In addition to that, besides the official support from Microsoft, companies deciding to opt for a Microsoft Dynamics 365 upgrade can refer to official implementation service providers for this software such as XPLUS, as well as a wide community of users for guidance and support.
Advantages of a cloud platform
While going for a Dynamics 365 upgrade, organizations have a chance to choose between an on-premises solution and a cloud one. While the former is particularly useful in the case of organizations located in regions with low Internet bandwidth or those subject to strict regulatory requirements, the cloud version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 has its own unparalleled advantages. Some of them are listed below:
– Robust security
The cloud version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 enjoys sophisticated security measures provided by Microsoft Azure, which also supports the customization of security policies based on geographical location.
– Data safety
Microsoft Azure also empowers robust data safety processes. Unlike on-premises versions of the previous ERP and CRM suites developed by Microsoft, users of cloud Microsoft Dynamics 365 can count on efficient backup functionality that will secure data from loss, whether caused by intentional removals or a natural disaster affecting company servers.
– High accessibility
A cloud version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 is highly accessible with dedicated applications designed specifically for mobile devices, as well as a possibility of running them directly through an Internet browser. At the same time, Microsoft Dynamics 365 features an even more user-friendly design for an enhanced experience and high productivity.
Ease of integration
A cloud version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 can be naturally more easily integrated with third-party software than on-premises ERP and CRM applications.
Cost-effectiveness
As mentioned earlier, Microsoft Dynamics 365 provides companies with great flexibility, contributing to their savings. Furthermore, the implementation of a cloud-based system eliminates the need for costly server equipment and its management.
Bottom line – does your company need a Dynamics 365 upgrade?
As mentioned earlier, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 upgrade is not mandatory. However, it can significantly enhance the competitiveness of your business. While it comes with certain expenses, the final result of implementing the newest version of the ERP and CRM suite is access to state-of-the-art functionality that your competitors may already be using