Changing Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365

Usually, there are two types of people. The first type prefers innovations in all forms, and the second type conservatively postpones the moment of change. I kindly recommend making informed decisions when it comes to business system updates. Do not rush! In this article, I will observe what advantages and risks you might face when dealing with the latest version of the system.

HERE COMES THE DEAD SECRET: MICROSOFT DYNAMICS CRM AND MICROSOFT DYNAMICS 365 ARE ONE PRODUCT

How has that happened?

A little time ago, Microsoft used ‘CRM’ for this product. Later, the platform got extended. And today, it covers far beyond customer relationship functionality.

Dynamics versions

The latest version of the product with the 'CRM' word — is Microsoft Dynamics 2016 (v.8). Previously, there were versions: Microsoft Dynamics 2015 (v.7), Microsoft Dynamics 2011 (v.5), etc. In 2018 Microsoft released Dynamics 365 (v.9), the newest today. This version includes all Microsoft Dynamics CRM components plus some additional ones.

• Different business-oriented applications: Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Field Service, Project Service Automation, etc. This system is not only about customer relationships. It includes many areas of business making. Using Dynamics 365, you pay only for modules that you need, not for the entire system. More applications are available to choose, and less money to be spent.

• A new Unified Interface: Microsoft Dynamics 365 has a more user-friendly interface than Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

• Microsoft Dynamics 365 has become a part of the Power Platform. It allows extending your system or improve its compatibility with other Microsoft products. Some products are already included in the subscription list with Microsoft Dynamics 365. Some of them are free of charge, by the way. I highly recommend trying Power Automate and PowerApps from the Power Platform. Also, the latest version of Dynamics is integrated into Office 365, Sharepoint, Outlook, and other Microsoft products.

• Storage space: Using Dynamics 365, you can save money on buying additional space at One Drive.5, Sharepoint, Outlook, and other Microsoft products.

• Longer support: The end of the application's product lifecycle comes later with the new version.

• Updates and features: All improvements for Microsoft Dynamics 365 will improve your work for sure.

By the way, this update is free if you have a valid Dynamics CRM license.

1. If you are planning the upgrade, please remember about deprecated things. Some of them were removed from the newest versions of the system.
2. To avoid any troubles — read this article before proceeding with the update.
3. And please remember that updates will not be easy if you have unsupported scripts. I recommend you use Dynamics 365 V9 Javascript Validator.

In conclusion, I advise you to:

• Organize the update process with the participation of an experienced system administrator: the process will go smoothly;
• Read the UDS blog: you will find new business ideas for improvement and customization of your workflows.