Upgrading Dynamics CRM on premise to Dynamics 365
Dynamics 365 is a powerful cloud-based suite of applications designed to help businesses improve their sales, marketing, and service operations. The suite comes with a range of features and capabilities that make it easier for companies to manage their customer data, automate workflows, and streamline processes.
One of the most significant benefits of Dynamics 365 is its ability to seamlessly integrate with other Microsoft applications. This means that you can use it along with Office 365, Power BI, PowerApps, and other Microsoft tools to create a holistic and comprehensive solution for your business needs.
For organizations already using Dynamics CRM on premise, upgrading to Dynamics 365 is a logical step forward. In this article, we’ll explore the advantages of upgrading to Dynamics 365, what you can expect during the upgrade process, and tips for making the transition as smooth as possible.
Advantages of Upgrading to Dynamics 365
There are several reasons why upgrading from Dynamics CRM on premise to Dynamics 365 is beneficial for businesses of all sizes. Some of the main advantages include:
1. Improved Functionality
Dynamics 365 comes with many new and enhanced features that enhance usability and functionality, such as mobile app accessibility, Power BI integration, and Azure AI.
2. Cloud-Based Platform
The cloud-based platform of Dynamics 365 eliminates the need for on-premise hardware and maintenance, which leads to reduced costs and hassle-free management.
3. Integration with Other Microsoft Tools
Dynamics 365’s integration with other Microsoft tools allows businesses to combine multiple software solutions and achieve a seamless user experience across all tools.
4. Scalability
Dynamics 365 is a scalable platform that can easily adapt to the changing needs of a growing business. It can handle the complexity of multi-departmental and large-scale enterprise business operations.
What to Expect During the Upgrade Process
The upgrade process from Dynamics CRM on premise to Dynamics 365 involves a series of steps. It is recommended to seek the assistance of a Microsoft-certified partner who can provide professional advice and guidance.
1. Preparation
During the preparation phase, the existing CRM database is assessed for compatibility with Dynamics 365 and backed up.
2. Data Migration
Next, data from the existing CRM database is moved to the new Dynamics 365 cloud platform. This may require changing the structure of the data to fit into the Dynamics 365 data model.
3. Customization and Configuration
Once the data has been migrated, configuring Dynamics 365 to meet your business needs and customizing it with additional features and functionalities to improve the user experience can be done.
4. Testing and Training
Before going live, thorough testing of the platform must be carried out to ensure there are no issues. The users should also receive training to understand how to use the new system effectively.
Tips for a Smooth Transition
To make the transition to Dynamics 365 as smooth as possible, consider the following tips:
1. Plan, Plan, Plan!
Planning ahead is critical to ensuring a successful upgrade. Plan out what you want from the new platform and make a list of your top priorities.
2. Evaluate Existing Customizations
Evaluate the customizations that you have in place on your current CRM deployment to determine if they are still necessary or if they need to be removed or updated.
3. Recruit a Partner
Recruit a Microsoft-certified partner to assist you with the upgrade process and ensure that everything goes according to plan.
4. Do Not Cut Corners on Data Migration
Ensure that data migration is carried out accurately, and it aligns with the new data model of Dynamics 365. The data should be properly structured, and important data should not be left behind.
5. Plan for User Adoption
Ensure that your users are on board with the transition by communicating the benefits of the new system, providing proper training and support during the transition period.
Conclusion
Upgrading from Dynamics CRM on premise to Dynamics 365 presents organizations with numerous benefits, including improved functionality, a cloud-based platform, integration with other Microsoft tools, and scalability. The upgrade process can be challenging, but it is essential to plan ahead, migrate data effectively, recruit a partner, evaluate existing customizations, and plan for user adoption. With the right strategy, businesses can leverage Dynamics 365 to improve their operations, enhance their customer relationships, and drive growth in a rapidly changing market.