CRM and ERP Overview

New versions of Dynamics CRM and Dynamics AX shipped in 2011.

Dynamics CRM 2011, now generally available, includes improvements to the product’s user interface, core customer management, and development platform and will offer simpler integration with other applications. The Dynamics CRM Online Microsoft-hosted service is based on Dynamics CRM 2011 and delivers very similar features. Microsoft plans to update the software and online service in sync with one another roughly twice a year, alternating between minor and major updates. A minor update shipped in Oct. 2011. A major update, probably in the second half of 2012, will deliver a new Web interface for browsers other than Internet Explorer and compatibility with SQL Server 2012. The company also plans to release Dynamics CRM add-ons through the Dynamics Marketplace online store.

Dynamics AX 2012 (formerly called AX 6 or AX 2011) shipped Aug. 1, 2011. The Dynamics AX 2012 platform simplifies deployment of customizations and will fit better into other systems built on Microsoft technology. The version’s updated business process components make the product more viable for large, global businesses and better address organizations in the public sector and other industries. Because it delivers major architectural changes, upgrades will require more planning than in past versions.