Small and midsize manufacturers used to manage all of their operations through spreadsheets or accounting software. For a while, that solution worked just fine, but as better technologies have been introduced to manufacturing over the past few decades, many of those smaller manufacturers have found that management method lacking. Manufacturers in today’s markets need more than a basic knowledge of what’s happening inside their organization. They need global reach and detailed understanding of internal processes.

An enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution has always been the tool that helps a company move from the small and midsize business (SMB) market into wider, more global competition, but the commitment to install ERP software was one that no company could take lightly. It required a solid commitment of both time and money to ensure that the implementation was successful, and most SMBs couldn’t afford to make that move. The commitment of time and resources was more than any justifiable return, and often, the SMB made the investment only to abandon it later because it was too complicated or too costly.

Technical Confidence
Times have changed. Today, small and midsize manufacturers that still use spreadsheets and accounting software as the backbone of the organization will find themselves left in the dust of companies that choose to implement an ERP application, whether it’s an in-house suite of functionality or a cloud-based Software as a Service (SaaS) application. ERP has become such an essential part of doing business that it’s changing the competitive landscape for SMBs. Those organizations that choose to ignore the capabilities that ERP enables will likely not be around a few years from now.

Fortunately, ERP has changed along with the times. With the availability of SaaS and cloud-based ERP applications, small and midsize manufacturers no longer need to commit a large chunk of time and financial resources to implement an ERP application. A typical SaaS or cloud-based ERP application can now be fully rolled out in a matter of months at a cost that is probably less than the investment required to keep manual tracking methods updated.

Adding ERP as a service also gives small and midsize manufacturers the technical confidence to strive for excellence in all areas of manufacturing, from planning and procurement to manufacturing and distribution. This means that small and midsize manufacturers can compete even with enterprises in markets that were previously unavailable. The result is rapid growth and expansion for some smaller manufacturers.

Global Reach
Of course, along with expansive growth come challenges. One particular challenge for small and midsize manufacturers is the ability to gain global reach. Not only are today’s small and midsize manufacturers faced with customers who might reside in other countries, but suppliers and vendors may, as well. This introduces a new set of complications that organizations that don’t have an ERP system will find nearly impossible to navigate.

With an ERP system, however, even small manufacturers can access global customers and vendors. Small and midsize manufacturers can navigate these international relationships without concern for the multinational or multicurrency nature of transactions, because the right ERP system will be designed to manage global relationships, including accounting issues, logistics, and regulatory issues.

Lean and Agile Manufacturing
Competing in today’s market isn’t just about creating the appearance of being a large company or having global reach. Small and midsize manufacturers that want to remain competitive in this market also need to be able to respond quickly to market shifts and customer demands, and they need to be able to reduce costs while being responsive. Lean and agile manufacturing is no longer wishful thinking: it’s a critical requirement.

Small and midsize manufacturers in today’s market that want to be here tomorrow need ERP to have the right planning, forecasting, and insight capabilities to be flexible while operating on less. Spreadsheets and accounting programs can’t provide that kind of insight. It takes a robust ERP application that can tap into both historical and real-time customer, vendor, and manufacturing data to provide detailed insight into changing trends, efficient processes, and customer demands.

If this market sounds tough, consider this: competition is only going to increase. More small and midsize manufacturers have the ability to access the functions and capabilities of ERP applications. The availability of ERP in the cloud or as SaaS offerings means that it’s no longer just an option for enterprises. The landscape of this competitive market makes ERP a requirement for small and midsize manufacturers and those that choose to ignore that requirement are risking their very future.

Download the full guide here or for more information contact us at info@columbusglobal.com.

by Columbus

Microsoft allows you to create different types of charts through the Dynamics CRM interface in order to visualize your data.  Charts are a great way to see key performance indicators at a glance, both for your executives and representatives.  Dynamics CRM charts can easily be added to dashboards, directly on a Form or List views.

This screenshot shows the current chart types you can choose from within the interface.  However, you can easily add many other chart types to your system simply by exporting the chart XML and entering a different chart type currently permitted by MS.

One chart type in particular that I would like to discuss is the Area chart.  Below, you can see screenshots of two Area charts.  Can you identify the difference?  You may think that they are each representing a different data set.  However, they actually represent the same data.   If you guessed chart type, you are correct.  Figure 1 is a traditional Area chart and Figure 2 is a Stacked Area chart.

Traditional Area charts display quantities for each series horizontally, similar to how a line graph or bar chart would appear.  If one series quantity is less than another, it will dip behind.  While this can be useful to see, it makes it difficult to determine the actual value directly from the chart.  As the name implies, Stacked Area charts display your series, stacked vertically.  Quantities will never be hidden, but rather the series is stacked as appropriate based on their quantities.  The series represents a unified sum that you want to display.  If each showed net profit, expenses and cost of goods, the total would represent your sales.

So, which chart type will you use?  It may be a matter of preference, depending on your business needs and which type your employees are used to seeing.  Luckily, MS Dynamics CRM gives you the ability to choose.

Beringer Associates a leading Microsoft Gold Certified Partner specializing in Microsoft Dynamics CRM and CRM for Distribution. We also provide expert Managed IT Services, Backup and Disaster Recovery, Cloud Based Computing and Unified Communication Systems.

by Beringer Associates

The post Microsoft Dynamics CRM – Difference of Area [Charts] appeared first on CRM Software Blog.

Are you ready to take Dynamics NAV into the cloud?

The advent of cloud computing offers numerous advantages for companies that are seeking to simplify their IT footprint. The cloud minimizes infrastructure, as well as reducing maintenance and support costs. But not all organizations are ready to move “all in” to the cloud. Many companies are taking a measured approach. Some companies are concerned about security, privacy, or configuration control, while others seek to leverage investments in existing on-premises hardware and networks.  They may deploy hosted or ‘private cloud’ solutions, move only selected applications to the cloud, or they may prefer to maintain all systems onsite for the foreseeable future.

Whichever model you choose, one thing is clear: you should make a decision based on your organization’s IT strategy. Choose the model that’s right for your business—not because your software vendor has forced you to adapt. This is why Western Computer recommends Microsoft Dynamics NAV to our customers with an evolving cloud strategy.

With Microsoft Dynamics NAV, your organization has the flexibility to adopt the deployment model that fits your business today. And the ability to adapt this model as your business evolves. Whether your organization is already running on cloud-based infrastructure, committed to staying on premises, or contemplating a move to the cloud at a later date, Dynamics NAV allows you maximum flexibility in choosing a deployment model.

Don't Sacrifice Functionality
Whether deployed on-premises or in the cloud, Dynamics NAV offers the same rich ERP functionality. This includes a robust internet-facing application interface. Thus, even if you’ve deployed on-premises, remote workers and remote offices can access full ERP functionality reliably and securely.

Whichever deployment model you choose, you have the option to purchase perpetual licenses or annual subscriptions. This allows you to forecast and control costs, even as your organization grows. For organizations seeking to reduce overall IT costs and/or total cost of ownership of their ERP, the cloud can offer significant savings by eliminating hardware and infrastructure costs and reducing demands on onsite IT personnel. And because Dynamics NAV runs on Microsoft Azure, Amazon Web Services, or virtually any private hosting system, you can shop for the cloud provider that best suits your business from both a technological and cost standpoint.

As experts in Microsoft Dynamics NAV, Western Computer works with our customers to design the deployment and licensing model that’s right for their organization. Many of our customers have firmly committed to one model or the other—moving core applications to the cloud as fast as possible, or dedicated to maintaining all infrastructure on-premises. But others prefer to keep their options open with a hybrid approach: deploying Dynamics NAV on-premises today, with an eye toward moving to the cloud in the future; or deploying to the cloud now, with onsite servers in place for backup or failover in case of unforeseen issues.

Wherever your IT strategy has you today—and wherever it takes you tomorrow—be sure your ERP software doesn’t limit your choices. And work with a partner that can understand your options and can help you plan confidently for the future. If you’d like to explore your options and understand which model is right for your business, contact Western Computer today. We can arrange a personalized demonstration of Dynamics NAV.

by Western Computer

Microsoft Dynamics CRM users should be excited about a recent acquisition. CRN Technology News detailed Microsoft's LinkedIn purchase in June 2016 for $26.2 billion. This purchase sets Microsoft Dynamics CRM up for success by supplying users with popular social media features and a rich source of business data.

LinkedIn is a  global social media network specifically aimed at business professionals. Just like all social networks, members submit personal information willingly in hopes of making contact with like-minded individuals or finding opportunities for networking. LinkedIn differs from other social channels because it's less casual and more professional. Users submit valuable details about their employment and education.

These demographics can help companies recognize potential business clients and personnel they can work with in the future. This acquisition gives Microsoft Dynamics a huge leg up on other CRM solutions because it creates integration with one of the most popular social sites for professional organizations in a time where all business software developers look for ways to make social media data more visible.

A recent article from The TM Group explores the LinkedIn acquisition in detail and highlights the potential benefits for business users.

by The TM Group

The post LinkedIn Purchase and Microsoft Dynamics CRM appeared first on CRM Software Blog.

If you are researching CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software solutions for your business, no doubt Microsoft Dynamics CRM is on your short list. Of course you are concerned about functionality, compatibility and ease of use, but a major concern, especially for a small to midsize or startup business has got to be the cost. Just how much will you need to budget for a Microsoft Dynamics CRM solution?

At The CRM Software Blog, our partners are here to help you.  We have developed an automated tool that will help you with a ballpark estimate of the cost of implementing Microsoft Dynamics CRM.

Of course, business needs vary, and it would be impossible to give a “sight unseen” bottom line quote, but having some idea of the range you would be talking about can be very helpful in your deliberations and budgeting.

Here’s how the Quick Quote tool works:

You provide some basic information about your type of business, the number of user licenses you require and the level of support you need. Tell us also whether you would like your CRM solution installed on premise or in the cloud.  The Quick Quote tool will use that information to generate a quote which will then be sent to you in an email. You will also receive a referral to one of our CRM Software Blog partners who can answer any questions you have and perform the installation for you if you choose.

Of course both the quote and the referral are non-binding. Variables could change the final price, but the estimate will give you a place to start.  Quick Quote can also provide an estimate for annual maintenance and licensing fees. We want to help you get the information you need to make a decision that will benefit your company now and in the days ahead.

The Quick Quote process is fast, easy and free. Why not give it a try and see how Microsoft Dynamics CRM will fit into your budget?

Get your free automated Microsoft Dynamics CRM Quick Quote at www.crmsoftwareblog.com/quick-quote.

By CRM Software Blog Editors, www.crmsoftwareblog.com/quick-quote.

The post CRM: How Much Will It Cost? appeared first on CRM Software Blog.

Data – and the ability to capture it, analyze it, and take action based on it – may be the single biggest differentiator between the highest performing companies and everyone else. In this article we take a look at how the leaders are succeeding at creating action from data.

The Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau is a service that has been available for many years. I recently found out that many partners are not aware of this service.  There are new members added this year as well.

Take a look.

Thanks,

Pam

Power up your FY17 marketing with the Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau

Kick off FY17 with the power of expert marketing from the Microsoft Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau. Whether you need a list, consulting services, an outsourced marketing director, a video or social media solution, MSB can help fill marketing gaps and accelerate your path to new leads. Each MSB vendor is experienced with Microsoft Dynamics partners and products, and has been recommended by one Dynamics partner in the past year. Here are a few examples of the Dynamics-savvy marketing companies that are MSB members:

• Create a “huge impact” on the web with Bright Orange Thread: Looking for a way to increase your online marketing productivity? Let Bright Orange Thread help you with digital marketing and website design strategies that attract more prospects and nurture leads into customers. A member of the Microsoft Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau since 2014, Bright Orange Thread helps clients ideate inbound marketing strategies, build lead-generation websites, and generate well-designed whitepapers, eBooks and other content. “Bright Orange Thread has had a huge impact on our presence on the web!” said one Dynamics partner. Check out Bright Orange Thread’s six offers on the MSB-PartnerSource site today.

• Let Mabbit Marketing put the power of social media to work for you! You never get a second chance to make a first impression! Mabbit Marketing is offering to design your profile and header graphics free of charge when you sign up for a Twitter account management package with a six-month commitment. Offering intelligent, straightforward social media management solutions for Microsoft Dynamics partners, Mabbit Marketing is a new member of the Microsoft Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau for FY17. One Dynamics partner “highly recommends them for Twitter account management and optimization.” Use the power of social media to your advantage by connecting with Mabbit Marketing.  

• Go fractional with OnTrack CMO: OnTrack CMO specializes in driving revenue and presence for your Microsoft partner business by delivering a multidiscipline channel marketing veteran to your company, one or more days per week or on demand. As your "fractional CMO," OnTrack CMO can become an integral part of your management team and work closely with your selling organization, consulting team and everyone in between to achieve long-term results. A new member of the Microsoft Dynamics Marketing Services Bureau for FY17, OnTrack CMO allows you to grow your marketing investments at a pace that makes the most sense. You can learn more about OnTrack CMO’s proven, cost-effective approach on the MSB-PartnerSource site.

The 16 Marketing Services Bureau professional agencies have been carefully selected for their experience and effectiveness. Check out all of their services by visiting PartnerSource at https://mbs.microsoft.com/partnersource/northamerica/sales-marketing/product-strategy-direction/USMarketingServicesBureau.

All Marketing Services Bureau agencies ("MSBs") and Partner Development Centers ("PDCs") are independent entities separate from Microsoft Corporation and any of its affiliates ("Microsoft"). At no time does any PDC or MSB have the power to (a) bind Microsoft, or (b) create in favor of any person any rights that Microsoft has not previously authorized in writing. The services promoted by this website should not be construed as an endorsement by Microsoft of any MSB or PDC services or as creating a partnership, joint venture, agency relationship, franchise relationship or any fiduciary duty between PDCs and/or MSBs and Microsoft. Microsoft does not have any ​influence over the terms, conditions or pricing of the services offered by MSBs or PDCs. In addition, Microsoft is not liable for information contained on external MSB or PDC sites that are linked to this site. You are free to contact and negotiate the services you require directly with MSBs or PDCs; Microsoft does not have and disclaims any interests in your business relationship with MSBs and/or PDCs.​

I’m happy to announce that we’ve just published the first set of samples for the Microsoft Dynamics CRM Web API.

The CRM Web API was released nine months ago and all of our samples so far have simply demonstrated raw HTTP requests and responses. These are the first set of samples you can download and run using the Web API. You can find information about these samples at Web API Samples.

The samples are posted on the MSDN Code Gallery. These samples are for C# and client-side JavaScript. Here is a list of this set of samples: C# and Client-side JavaScript Web API samples.

Scope of these samples

Being a RESTful OData v4 service, the CRM Web API allows developers many options about how to interact with the service—there is no single ‘correct way’ to do it. These samples are not intended to demonstrate any type of single preferred way to use the Web API. Instead, they simply provide examples that show straightforward use of the CRM Web API.

Many people have been asking for re-usable helper libraries so that they can simply put the Web API to use without having to be concerned about their inner workings. This is not the purpose of these samples.

Except for a set of C# helper libraries to manage authentication, these samples do not represent helper libraries to perform CRM data operations. These samples have been written to expose the specific low-level configurations that make the specific OData v4 capabilities we have implemented work. We have tried to keep them as light as possible, which means that we have not tried to encapsulate operations behind methods and provide a de facto helper library. Our goal is to demonstrate how these operations are performed so that developers can create their own helper libraries which align with how they wish to use the Web API.

There are a number of helper libraries for OData which you can find at http://www.odata.org/libraries/.

If you are looking for CRM specific helper libraries or code generators, please refer to these community resources:

• https://github.com/davidyack/Xrm.Tools.CRMWebAPI
• https://crmrestbuilder.codeplex.com/
• https://github.com/mariusso/WebAPI.REST.js

The approach we chose

Because there are so many different approaches developers might take, we have tried to be very clear about the approach we have chosen for these samples. Each sample includes a specific set of operations which are described in a language neutral way that includes the HTTP requests and responses as well as the output of the sample.

For example, the Web API Basic Operations Sample provides the common set of operations which is implemented by both the Web API Basic Operations Sample (C#) and the Web API Basic Operations Sample (Client-side JavaScript). In the future we can provide additional samples with different languages and show how that language or technology can be used to achieve the same result.

For each language sample, we have provided details about the particular approach we chose.

• Web API Samples (C#) describes that we chose to use the Json.NET library together with the standard .NET framework HTTP messaging classes. The C# samples do include helper libraries that manage the configuration data about the service, information about applications registration, and authentication using ADAL or Windows Authentication.
• Web API Samples (Client-side JavaScript) topic describes how we chose to provide a basic request helper function and use a specific ES6 Promise polyfill so that the samples demonstrate the use of Promises.

What’s next?

This is just our first set of Web API samples. We intend to expand the samples available to include use of the ODataLib Client for .Net and samples using Java. We also intend to expand the breadth of operations we cover to include batch operations.

Please let us know what you think.

Jim Daly