7 Reasons Why Dynamics 365 CRM Users Are Moving to the Cloud
Moving business systems like Dynamics 365 or Office to the cloud is a key strategy that companies are implementing in order to gain efficiencies and better data insights. Microsoft has heavily invested in the structure and security of its cloud and cloud offerings to help propel businesses forward and streamline the digital revolution.
Dynamics 365 for Customer Engagement (CRM) is a natural fit for the cloud, as users can greatly benefit from the flexibility to gain access from any device from any location. The value from the move to the cloud can really be surmised into 7 areas.
1. Microsoft Cloud
Moving your systems to the cloud means you have the full force of Microsoft heading up your infrastructure, security monitoring, threat management, intrusion detection, and stability. With an up-time of 99.9% and redundancy built-in, your data is always accessible and secure. Additionally, the Microsoft cloud is in compliance with 90 different regulations, including 35 compliance offerings specific to the needs of industries such as health, government, finance, education, manufacturing, and media.
2. Cost
When comparing the cost of on-premise software to Dynamics 365 in the cloud, the real savings come into play when you consider infrastructure and IT resources. When your software lives on your server, you’re responsible for the costs associated with the hardware, backups, maintenance, patches, and security. By transitioning your software to the cloud, all of those responsibilities and costs are shifted to Microsoft. Additionally, you will no longer have to pay for your IT team, or software partner, to complete upgrades to CRM.
3. Consistent Upgrades
One of the key values when moving to the cloud is consistent, timely, and automatic updates. You no longer have to schedule and pay for large upgrades or wonder if your version is falling behind or out of support. With Microsoft’s One Version concept, every system is on the most updated version with the latest features and functionality.
Eight updates are delivered each year, with two major updates happening each April and October. The updates are communicated to you by Microsoft and your software partner and automatically happen over a communicated date range, typically on a weekend.
4. Modern User Experience and Platform
Dynamics 365 CE online offers a modern user experience and platform that is easier to navigate and can be accessed on any device. From a cell phone to a tablet, to a computer – your users have access to the information they need no matter where they are or what device they are using. The mobile app includes offline functionality that allows users to continue working even if they’re without internet access. That information is then automatically synced to the system when they are connected.
5. Updated Functionality
Dynamics 365 online includes new features and functionality that are not available to on-premise users. These updates have empowered CRM users to find information faster in an easy-to-navigate layout. With consistent updates, users can always take advantage of the latest features within the system including:
- Ability to configure won and lost opportunity closed screen
- Scan and auto-enter business card data
- Sales insights and relationship assistant (AI)
- Integration to Power Apps
- Portal availability
- Custom controls
New functionality is added during each major release in April and October.
6. Integrated Business Operations
Successfully integrating your business systems means automated, streamlined processes that enable your users across the company. Dynamics 365 eliminates siloed systems and processes and gives users in all departments the ability to access the data history and information they need to reach their goals.
7. Business Insights
Dynamics users have more insights into data and underlying trends than ever before, allowing you to compile data from a variety of sources, analyze information, and access in-depth dashboards and reports. From these insights, you can predict churn or the next best action. You can also make informed decisions that will help you predict opportunities and close more deals.
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If you're looking for more information about moving to the cloud, reach out to us at Stoneridge Software.
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