Upgrading Dynamics CRM On Premise to Dynamics 365: Benefits and Considerations
In the world of business, customer relationship management (CRM) is one of the most critical aspects. It helps companies manage their relationships with customers and streamline sales processes. Microsoft Dynamics CRM has been a leading CRM solution for several years, offering a comprehensive range of features and functionalities to help businesses of all sizes manage their customer interactions effectively.
However, with the introduction of Dynamics 365, a cloud-based CRM solution, businesses have even more options available when it comes to managing their customer relationships. This article will explore the advantages and considerations of upgrading to Dynamics 365 from Dynamics CRM on-premise.
Benefits of Upgrading to Dynamics 365
1. Access to the Latest Features
One of the primary benefits of upgrading to Dynamics 365 is access to the latest features and functionalities. Microsoft constantly updates its cloud-based solution with new features and enhancements, which are not available in Dynamics CRM on-premise. Some of the latest features in Dynamics 365 include artificial intelligence-powered sales insights, advanced analytics, and machine learning capabilities.
2. Scalability and Flexibility
Dynamics 365 is cloud-based, meaning it offers more flexibility than an on-premise solution. It can scale up or down, depending on business needs, without additional hardware or infrastructure investments. This agility and flexibility make it easier for businesses to adapt to changes in the market and remain competitive.
3. Improved Security and Compliance
Dynamics 365 is built on the Azure cloud platform and benefits from all the security measures put in place by Azure. Microsoft also provides regular security updates and compliance certifications, ensuring businesses can trust the solution with their sensitive information and meet regulatory requirements.
4. Integration with Other Microsoft Solutions
Dynamics 365 integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft solutions, including Office 365, Power BI, and Azure. This integration capability allows businesses to leverage the full power of the Microsoft ecosystem and enhance their workflows and processes.
Considerations when Upgrading to Dynamics 365
1. Customizations
If you have customized your Dynamics CRM on-premise extensively, it may take some time and effort to migrate those customizations to Dynamics 365. Microsoft provides migration tools, but it is essential to assess the complexity of your customization before upgrading to ensure a smooth transition.
2. Data Migration
Migrating data from Dynamics CRM on-premise to Dynamics 365 can be a complex task. It is crucial to ensure that the data is cleaned and de-duplicated before the migration to avoid duplicate entries or incomplete data in the new system.
3. Training and Adoption
Upgrading to Dynamics 365 requires training and adoption to ensure that employees and teams are using the new solution effectively. Microsoft provides comprehensive training materials and resources, but it is up to businesses to ensure that their employees are adequately trained and onboarded.
4. Cost
Upgrading to Dynamics 365 requires a subscription-based model, which can be more expensive than an on-premise solution. However, businesses need to consider the benefits and potential savings offered by the cloud-based solution, such as reduced infrastructure and maintenance costs.
Conclusion
In conclusion, upgrading from Dynamics CRM on-premise to Dynamics 365 offers numerous benefits, including access to the latest features and functionalities, scalability and flexibility, improved security and compliance, and integration with other Microsoft solutions. However, businesses must also consider the customizations and data migration required, training and adoption, and cost before making the switch. Ultimately, upgrading to Dynamics 365 can help businesses improve customer relationships, streamline sales processes, and remain competitive in their respective markets.