Microsoft Dynamics 365 is reinventing business process as we know it.
Microsoft Dynamics, the line of leading business software typically categorised as CRM and ERP solutions offered as on-premise, off-premise or as hybrid, has been redesigned, remodelled and reinvigorated to bring next generation capabilities to SMBs.
What is Microsoft Dynamics 365?
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a business solution model that ditches the traditional individual entities of Microsoft Dynamics CRM, GP, NAV, AX and others that coexisted with the likes of Office 365 and SharePoint. Instead, users can now choose the functionality they need through a collection of apps available in Microsoft AppSource and create a completely integrated environment. The solutions will be powered by Microsoft Azure and come with flexible licensing subscription options that span across the entire offering.
Rise of the Apps
It was at the World Partner Conference in July when Microsoft unveiled the new approach to business software in the form of PowerApps. The “mobile-first, cloud-first” business apps improve the flexibility of offerings from the Microsoft Global Network of partners and resellers. This means organisations have a wider choice of features that no longer have to be bespoke or release-specific customisations. So far there are over 100 apps already available in AppSource, with that number soon to increase as development partners learn more about the full scope of Dynamics 365.
The full circle
Over the decades Microsoft has been leaders in various markets for their array of tech products, innovative solutions and flagship devices. And yet again, Microsoft have proven that experience counts. Dynamics 365 is borne out of the billions of dollars invested in R+D as it naturally brings all AI technology together through AI and voice command tool Cortana, the Azure IoT platform and business intelligence reporting dashboard PowerBI. The popular Microsoft Office apps have been available through the Azure cloud service through Microsoft’s popular Office 365 subscription model. The subscription extends to include PowerBI as well as Skype for business voice and video conferencing and document management platform SharePoint.
Intelligence for the entire business
So out with the old and in with the new. Microsoft has stated that existing ERP and CRM products are not obsolete given the release of Dynamics 365, with Road Maps for existing ERP solutions reaching beyond 2017 and future releases still scheduled to go ahead. What does that mean for businesses? It’s an exciting time to make productive changes to your organisation. Traditional solutions are still very much strong options, or if your business is ready to embrace digital transformation you can pick and choose a function-by-function level solution in a risk-free Azure-powered environment. Dynamics 365 is Microsoft combining their commendable experience with a true cloud-based offering that the workplace has become accustomed to.
The actual launch for Microsoft Dynamics 365 is at Microsoft’s Future Decoded event on 1st November 2017, so be sure to check back for an update.