Traditionally, apart from some regular maintenance and standard checks, a company’s ERP solution was left alone. It would then run reliably for years. It was also considered very risky and costly to implement major changes, so lots of companies postponed them for as long as possible.
However, with Dynamics 365 shifting the business system into the cloud this is no longer the case. As part of that, Microsoft release eight updates a year (as explained on page 6) to ensure businesses stay Evergreen. These regular and easy to manage updates are a far cry from the traditional methods of the past.
“It’s a huge advantage for companies. There’s no question at all about that. But, on several points, the rapid evolution of Dynamics 365 challenges both classical ERP thinking and the company’s business development,” said Britt Munk-Madsen, Director of Solution Optimisation at Columbus.
Businesses no longer need to keep meticulous lists of wishes and needs and wait patiently for the next ERP project or re-implementation before they can change anything.
“For many companies, Dynamics 365 will probably be the last ERP solution they implement. So, if the business has any needs, there is virtually no reason to wait to implement them. The question is rather how to prioritise, so that the ERP system constantly plays a role when the business needs to be developed,” said Britt.
It’s no longer the platform that gets in the way of wishes and plans. Instead, the challenge is to gain an overview of all the options and learn how to make the best use of them.
“The fact that we’re no longer locked in to versions is great. Being able to access all sorts of latest features and functionalities at any time is a huge step forward,” said Britt.
To gain the necessary overview, you need in-depth insight into the architectural direction that Microsoft is taking with Dynamics 365. It also requires practical, up-to-date knowledge on how to take advantage of both existing and future features and technologies.
This led to the formation of the Columbus Solution Optimisation department, which helps customers gain an overview of the options so they can make the most of the constant development of Dynamics 365.
“I can understand that our customers are in doubt about where to start first, and which measures will have the greatest positive effect for their business. That’s the kind of questions we help them find answers to. It’s all aimed at ensuring the solution always supports their business,” said Britt.
“It revolves around providing concrete, updated and relevant input for continuous development, and ensuring that customers capitalise on their ERP investment,” said Britt.
“But that’s easier said than done. To provide expert advice, you need to be right in the middle of the intersection between business development, consulting, processes and technology. That’s incredibly exciting and professionally challenging,” she said.
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