An improve to Dynamics 365 is one more way of moving to this ERP and CRM suite in addition to imposing the system from scratch. This process calls for the transfer of your company’s data to Microsoft Dynamics 365 and merging its functionality with current customizations. The complexity of this manner is determined through the modern-day model of your machine, and the extra latest it is, the easier the improve may be. However, even the migration to Microsoft Dynamics 365 from the modern software variations can pose sure challenges. To know how to minimize these issues and make the transition swift, read this article focused on best practices.
1. Understanding the functionality of Microsoft Dynamics 365
A successful upgrade to Dynamics 365 is Not possible without a proper knowledge of this software and comparing its capability to the gadget your employer is currently the usage of.
You can start with learning approximately the packages included within the Microsoft Dynamics 365 suite to apprehend which of them may be the most beneficial to your employer proper now. Keep in thoughts which you do not always have to use all the packages included inside the suite, and you could begin with a single utility, steadily adding more of them. At the identical time, you will additionally be capable of resign from any programs you want if they prove to be redundant.
2. Assessing your current software and identifying business needs
Compare the know-how approximately the functionality of Microsoft Dynamics 365 to the functionality supplied via the software you’re presently the use of. Evaluate the customizations, integrations, and extensions used in your gadget and discover those that could now not be relevant on your commercial enterprise scenario.
Furthermore, pay particular interest to any functions which might be deprecated or range from their opposite numbers to be had within Microsoft Dynamics 365. Before you start the upgrade process, think about the ways in which you can replace this functionality if your company still needs it. Keep in mind that some of the custom code and extensions your company is using can be aligned with the latest version of Microsoft Dynamics 365. Compatibility issues can be resolved with the help of dedicated tools.
3. Choosing the best migration approach
Based on the knowledge collected during the assessment processes, especially the one regarding the condition of data and customizations, select the migration approach. Here are the most common migration approaches:
– Re-implementation
The most resource-consuming migration approach requires a complete redesign of the system’s use in your company. While it provides enterprises with opportunities for process optimization and helps avoid legacy issues, the process will require greater investment and can significantly disrupt business processes.
– In-place upgrade
The in-place upgrade aims to minimize disruptions and make it possible for companies to enjoy new features, usually achieved by upgrading directly to the newest version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 with minimum or no changes in processes and configurations. Its drawback is limited optimization coupled with legacy issues.
– Hybrid migration
This approach combines both of the migration forms discussed above and allows the optimization of certain system components and processes while reducing disruption. At the same time, this form of migration can be rather complex and demanding.
4. Defining your upgrade plan
Similarly to the implementation plan, an upgrade plan will help your company complete the transition to the recent version of Microsoft Dynamics 365 more effectively while staying within the timeframes and budget. The upgrade process can be quite time-consuming, and it is necessary to ensure it does not stretch out and generate excessive costs by setting clear goals and steps.
5. Essential user training
Even though your employees have already been working with one of the ERP and CRM systems provided by Microsoft, essential training is recommended to use the functionality of Dynamics 365 effectively.
6. Planning software testing routine
Before the upgrade to Dynamics 365, it is necessary to plan your testing routine. Even though you are not going to implement the software from scratch, you will still need to thoroughly test it before rolling it out. Moreover, Microsoft Dynamics 365 requires regular testing as it is regularly updated.
7. Backup and rollback plan
Plan your upgrade to Dynamics 365 with possibilities for backup and rollback in mind. Comprehensive backups of the system currently used in your organization can help your company remain productive even if any critical issues arise during the upgrade process. In certain cases, their severity may require reverting to the previous state, and it is essential to enable it without causing significant disruptions in business processes.
8. Data preparation and migration
Even though your company’s data is already used by the existing system, which may imply its quality is sufficient for migration to new software, it is still highly recommended to validate it before the upgrade. Many companies suffer from insufficient data quality after implementation, and it can prove useful to revise your data before the transition.
9. Seeking support
While an upgrade to Dynamics 365 may seem rather overwhelming, fortunately, many other organizations are going through the same process, and you can count on both professional assistance and support from the community.
First of all, you can refer to numerous materials aiming to facilitate the process of transitioning to the newest version of the CRM and ERP suite, published by Microsoft itself. In addition to that, you can access informative discussions on the experiences of upgrades shared by companies that have already gone through this process or are planning to go through it.
At the same time, you can trust a reputable implementation service provider such as XPLUS, who will also guide you through the upgrade process.
Upgrade to Dynamics 365 – conclusions
Although an upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics 365 seems to be a less complex task than the implementation of the system from scratch, it still requires significant effort, and it is necessary to plan the process thoroughly, considering critical components of an upgrade such as the migration of data, processes, and customizations, as well as designing an effective testing routine.
