If you’re a Dynamics CRM user, you’re going to want to read this. If you didn’t already know, Dynamics CRM is set to become Dynamics 365 when your license of Dynamics CRM renews.
Unfortunately, you don’t really have much of a choice when this happens. Dynamics CRM is no longer being supported by Microsoft, and is slowly being phased out as you’ll renew.
So what does all of this mean? Have a read of our Q&A to find out more!
Q: So Dynamics CRM has been discontinued?
A: That’s correct. It’s been discontinued and has been replaced by the brand new Dynamics 365.
Q: Dynamics 365? I’ve heard about that!
A: Yes! It’s the brand new ERP and CRM hybrid that got rolled out in the US on November the 1st 2016. It’s a system that’s much more than just the sales and marketing CRM system that you’re used to. It’s broken up into modules, that you can add and take away at any given time of your choosing. (If you want to find out more about Dynamics 365, register for our upcoming webinar)
Q: But I don’t want to switch to Dynamics 365. Can’t I just stick with Dynamics CRM?
A: Unfortunately not. As I said in a previous question, it’s been discontinued and is no longer being supported. You’ll be automatically moved onto a comparable installation of Dynamics 365. Don’t worry though, all your data, settings and dashboards will be migrated too.
Q: Alright, so what’s the problem? You mentioned a huge issue?
A: The issue is that when some customers are being migrated, the price of their subscription to Dynamics can fluctuate. In some cases it can actually cost customers less – which is obviously great!
However in some extreme examples, it can actually end up costing you more. In one such case our client, Logistics Learning Alliance were landed with a bill that went well over their annual budget.
Q: What? Why is this happening?
A: A couple of reasons:
First, since Britain’s referendum on EU membership, the pound has depreciated sharply against the US dollar. Microsoft have altered their pricing to reflect this, which has led to licenses of Dynamics costing more in GBP. It’s worth noting that this isn’t exclusive to Microsoft and Dynamics though, as many US companies including Google and Apple have evaluated their pricing in the wake of Brexit.
Second, there are two versions of Dynamics 365 – each customisable with a wealth of add-ons and features. Customers are being automatically moved to the Enterprise edition, which in some cases can increase costs dramatically. The Enterprise edition of Dynamics 365 is as its name suggests, designed for Enterprise sized businesses. The Business edition is suite for smaller businesses.
Q: What can I do?
A: We strongly advise that you get in contact with us. Whether you’re a customer of ours or not we can help. In the case of Logistics Learning Alliance, we worked with them and Microsoft to alter their Dynamics 365 service plan and cut their bill significantly. We’ve got a relationship with Microsoft that’s been in place for 17 years, so we have what it takes to work things out for you and your business.
Q: What if I just cut and run?
A: Again, we advise you don’t do that. You might be in some sort of contract with Microsoft for a specified period and leaving your contract may incur financial penalty. Not to mention migrating your data to another system and having to learn to operate a whole new system. Besides Dynamics 365 isn’t something to be afraid of – It’s the same as Dynamics CRM which was rated very highly by top industry analysts Gartner.
Q: Can you tell me more about each version of Dynamics 365?
A: Of course. Check out our Dynamics 365 page, or visit the Microsoft site.
Q: I’m worried this might be affecting me. What can I do next?
A: Speak to our dedicated CRM team on 020 3773 5706. They’ll be delighted to help!
