Key takeaways

• Dynamics CRM Online was Microsoft’s original cloud-based CRM, focused mainly on managing customer relationships.
• Dynamics 365 builds on this by offering a modular platform that integrates CRM with ERP, automation, analytics and AI – covering sales, service, finance and more.
• Upgrading to Dynamics 365 unlocks customisable apps, Power Platform integration and cloud scalability, making it a future-ready solution for business growth.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is the next generation of business applications. Comprising a large set of tools, the Dynamics 365 platform allows you to unleash your organisation’s potential by breaking down data silos and connecting customers, products, people, and operations.

However, Dynamics 365 is only the latest chapter in the history of Microsoft Dynamics. Previously, organisations may have been familiar with Dynamics CRM Online.

In this blog, we explore the evolution of those Microsoft Dynamics 365 products and why the switch from Dynamics CRM Online benefits your business.

What is the difference between Microsoft Dynamics 365 vs Dynamics CRM Online?

In terms of functionality, there are no real differences between Dynamics 365 and Dynamics CRM Online.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online was designed to maintain and develop your customer relationships. However, it has now grown into a platform called Microsoft Dynamics 365.

Dynamics 365 is more extensive than CRM Online. It enables your business to manage a range of data sources in one location by using a variety of modules dedicated to specific operational areas, including Sales, Customer Service and Field Service.

In this sense, the main difference between Dynamics 365 and Dynamics CRM Online is that you can do more. You can choose the relevant modules for your business to deploy a more customised solution that integrates with your Microsoft suite.

As a result, Dynamics 365 goes well beyond CRM.

Why did they change it?

By aligning your CRM with other Microsoft applications, you can improve your key business processes and increase your businesses productivity. This was a key factor in the evolution of Dynamics CRM Online to Dynamics 365.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 offer your business the full range of apps to manage your customers. It also covers a wide range of valuable tools under Power Platform, underpinned by Microsoft’s Dataverse, to extend capabilities even further.

The benefits of moving to Microsoft Dynamics 365

Dynamics 365 CRM offers many advantages over the previous CRM Online, thanks to its prebuilt integrations. We’ve listed the key benefits:

Powered by automation

Dynamics 365 is supported by Microsoft Power Automate, which allows users to automate workflows and tasks across multiple applications. There’s no need for developers as it’s super easy to do yourself.

It can automate everything from simple push notifications and content management to complex business processes with defined steps and stages. As a result, you get stuff done faster with less manual intervention.

Work from anywhere

Dynamics 365 is hosted in Azure, allowing secure access in several locations.

Each app with the Dynamics suite has its own mobile solutions, so you can work anywhere using your preferred devices. In the world of hybrid working, everyone has the access they need.

Customise your CRM

With Dynamics 365, you get the benefit of a host of add-ins such as Customer Voice and gamification. This allows you to customise your CRM quickly and easily to ensure it meets your business needs.

There are also thousands of solutions available in Microsoft’s AppSource, allowing you to extend functionality further.

Efficient processes

Microsoft Dynamics 365 utilises business process flow, with a simplified user interface to easily tailor processes to your needs.

Business process flows are composed of stages, and within each stage, you can determine the fields that your users need to complete. Your business will then offer a unified service, no matter who your customers deal with.

Thorough testing

Dynamics 365 provides a testing and development sandbox for customers with 25 or more licenses.

Every customer also receives one sandbox as standard and one self-service portal, allowing you to safely develop your solution.

Frequent updates

Microsoft invests more in research and development than other organisation and they are continuously ensuring their customers have the latest and greatest in functionality. The result is regular updates to extend the capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics 365.

Twice a year, Microsoft ensure that updates are rolled out to their customers meaning you will always be at the forefront of their technology.

Even though Microsoft support for Dynamics CRM Online continues to be provided, Microsoft’s focus on updates and new features sits with Dynamics 365 as a priority.

If you are using CRM Online and want to get the most out of these new releases, you will certainly need to step across to Microsoft Dynamics 365 sooner rather than later.

Should you move to Microsoft Dynamics 365?

If you want to leverage regular updates, improved processes and added benefits, you need to move to Dynamics 365. It’ll allow you to refine your CRM while looking beyond to your wider business processes, with enhanced integration across your tools.

Infinity Group are leading Microsoft partners, with advanced expertise in Dynamics 365. Our consultants can help you understand the value to your business, craft a bespoke solution and ensure safe migration.

Please get in touch to find out more.