The power of standardization with Dynamics 365

Link between ERP and CRM 

By tradition organizations’ ERP and CRM systems have often been separate, and thus detached from each other. But the line between the two is blurring. “Where we used to implement many ERP systems, today the increasing trend is for them to be joined by CRM,” explains Martin. “That’s hardly surprising, because you need to have the two systems integrated with each other these days to have a complete picture in the organization. For example, are payments being made on time? Are orders being delivered on time? You want to know everything about your customer, and that information is often to be found both on the front end in the CRM, and on the back end in the ERP system.” 

That means one of the strengths of standardization with Microsoft Dynamics is that you can operate one system bundling the ERP and CRM systems, and you can combine them with each other. “Incidentally this doesn’t mean you’re obliged to purchase both,” points out Martin. “Thanks to Dynamics’ modular structure, you can put both modules down on one platform. And that means data from the CRM and ERP systems will now come from a single database. Answers to questions like ‘What do my returns cost?’ and in particular ‘How often does the customer return a purchased product?’ are easy to find. Having the data from the ERP and CRM systems linked means you have one truth, and simply a complete picture that’s vitally important for business operations.” 

Upgrade easily

Organizations want to be and stay flexible. That’s also a must for the functionality of the systems they use. But this requires upgrades to all the versions and applications they’re running, which can hinder this flexibility. “The more deviations you have from the standard, the more changes you have to make when implementing upgrades,” Martin explains. “That’s an irritation point for many organizations. So the advantage of standardization is that upgrading is far easier. You’re staying with a comprehensive base that lets you expand further. For example, if you want to take action to meet a particular customer demand in the retail sector, or apply more artificial intelligence in the industry, you can add new functionality or technologies easily, as required.” 

A successful digital transformation

Switching to a standardized cloud solution can be comprehensive, for example as employee tasks or routines change. Bringing employees on board with this change is crucial, and requires change management to be anchored within the project. “This is very important, especially when you take big steps,” Martin warns. “Particularly in the preliminary phase, it’s important that everyone is clear on what the standard is, and why you’re choosing to stay with it from now on as an organization. Don’t underestimate this step in the digital transformation.” 

How does Conclusion MBS support digital transformation? 

Irrespective of the complexity of the situation, our experts are happy to help you implement a standard solution like Microsoft Dynamics. Martin: “We enjoy guiding clients through the transition to a new ERP or CRM system. We do this by translating the client’s pain points into concrete solutions and examples. How might the system look at the back end? How do you move from the old cigar box, so to speak, to a modern application which makes business information available centrally? That’s where we come into the picture, so that you can have a successful digital transformation. And one that can occur on a modular basis. For example, we start with a quick implementation of Dynamics CRM, and then expand with the modules your business needs.” 

Curious about just what Microsoft Dynamics 365 can do for your organizational processes?
Then don’t hesitate to get in touch with Martin Aldewereld. He will be happy to help you.