I get a lot of questions about Microsoft Dynamics 365 and its various components. Microsoft continuously works on improving its offer, which often leads to changes in product names and structure, and can cause some confusion. To help you, here’s an overview of the various applications that make up the Dynamics 365 platform.
What is Dynamics 365 exactly?
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a management applications ecosystem that offers all the various modules businesses may need. These modules include those usually associated with CRM solutions, namely sales, marketing, and service, but also for the management of finances and operations.
Moreover, some products in this ecosystem are designed for SMBs, while others are designed for larger enterprises. Some may be used by both, but offer different types of licenses to meet the needs of SMBs (“Professional” licenses) and large businesses (“Enterprise” licenses). This can get confusing, I’ll give you that!
Here’s an overview of the Dynamics 365 structure:
Which solution to choose?
First of all, you need to ask yourself what the needs of your organization are. Are they similar to those of SMBs and include basic functionality that will help you grow? Or does your organization have needs that resemble those of large businesses and require a wider range of features?
Products for SMBs
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central groups together management applications for SMBs, including CRM features (sales and customer service) and ERP features (management of finances, distribution, and manufacturing). For SMBs, Business Central is generally the best option. It offers basic financial and management features, as well as customization possibilities and workflows allowing you to adapt it easily to the needs of your organization.
Products for large enterprises
The other management applications included in the Dynamics 365 ecosystem usually target larger organizations or businesses looking for more advanced features. These modules include Marketing, Field Service, Project Automation, Commerce, Finance, Supply Chain Management, and Human Resources.
Of course, SMBs too may need these features, but in their case we recommend looking for third-party products on the Microsoft AppSource. Numerous Microsoft partners develop applications to meet specific needs that are not covered natively by Microsoft Dynamics. For example, JOVACO is currently developing a project management solution specifically designed for professional services firms, which will be available on Business Central later this year.
And what about integrations?
Dynamics 365 also offers advanced integration possibilities with other Microsoft cloud product, for example Microsoft 365 (Office 365) and the Power Platform. This is the main benefit of choosing Microsoft management applications, especially if your organization is already using these cloud products.
I hope this clarifies the various components of the Dynamics 365 platform! To learn more, check out the following articles:
About the author
Jonathan Chatel is Director of Business Development at JOVACO Solutions since 2017. Thanks to his various professional activities, he has since deepened his knowledge of Microsoft technologies and business solutions, a world that evolves so quickly it can be hard to keep track. He is now sharing his knowledge of Microsoft products in everyday language to keep you informed about this fascinating universe.
