Change and Release Management




Microsoft Dynamics business application updates are an essential part of every business’ Change roadmap each year. Columbus Global UK have an established Change and Release Management process that will ensure that our customers stay current, secure and have control over every update that is applied. 

With up to four new Updates being released for Dynamics 365 applications annually, continuous change can challenge your business. Columbus are here to help you understand each upcoming update, prepare for any changes and ensure any releases go smoothly. 

Here is Kellie Brook who can tell you more about our process and services:

 

 

Customer cases
Hero image - Train the trainer, How Kanthal created an educational concept for its employees Train the trainer: How Kanthal created an educational concept for its employees

Change is a constant in our professional lives, whether it’s starting a new job or updating an outdated IT system. But if change is so common, why aren’t organisations better at managing it?

  • Case
NCC - Hero image Stable and strategic management of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations for NCC Industry’s transformation

To create greater efficiency and synergy effects, NCC has initiated a major business transformation process in an aim to create common ways of working.

FAQs

  • Can Columbus manage the Microsoft releases for Dynamics F&O, BC and CE?

    Yes, Columbus provides services to allow for the management of Microsoft Releases for all Dynamics applications, including Dynamics 365 F&O/FSCM, Business Central and CE.

  • Do Columbus provide Release Notes for Microsoft Updates?

    Columbus, as part of their Release Management service, provide tailored release notes for each customer as required. These are completed for any Dynamics application that has Updates provided as standard.  

    A Solutions Architect who understands and has experience of the customer’s application will study the Release Notes. The customer will then receive details of where any changes may impact them, including any new functionality that has been introduced that is not yet mandatory but may provide benefit. 

    To request an example report of these Release Notes please complete the Contact Form as below. 

  • How many Updates do Columbus recommend are completed each year?

    Microsoft Dynamics F&O provides four Update releases per year, including two ‘Wave Releases’ that introduce new functionality or deprecate features as required. A customer can pause one update at a time before the next update is automatically applied to the application. 

    The minimum number of updates that a customer can take is 2. We at Columbus have customers who decide to do this, with others taking 3 or even four to remain compliant and up to date at all times. Columbus would recommend three updates per year but can assist as required. 

    Microsoft Dynamics CE provides two mandatory Updates each year in April and October as ‘Wave Releases’. These cannot be delayed unless it can be proven to Microsoft that the updates will provide critical issues to a customer application upon activation. Columbus can assist with conversations with Microsoft about such an update pause. 

  • Can Columbus assist with Releases that a customer has completed Development on?

    Yes, Columbus can provide support on customer-led developments/customisations. A process will be followed whereby the customer will provide release notes to allow the Columbus support team to understand what changes have been deployed should a future incident occur. 

    Columbus also provide a code validation service to any customer that wishes to complete developments but would like their Partner to check any coding for best practice/issues.