Microsoft Dynamics® CRM 2011 is here! And it adds a new user interface with the look and feel of Microsoft's Outlook e-mail client ! This is with the intent that a common and popular UI will lower training and support expenses, as well as put users more at ease with the CRM applications, according to a company statement. Further, the new version , including Exchange, SharePoint, and Office. The update also includes integration with Microsoft's Azure cloud application platform.
A recent blog article from Michael Park, Corporate Vice President, Microsoft Business Solutions titled “”, cites the renewed optimism in the software industry with investments in CRM applications showing a large increase. Microsoft Dynamics CRM is right in line with the needs of businesses with their successful launch of Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online and on-premises this year.
In additon to those exciting releases, Microsoft announced that it is now making versions of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Online packages available for customers to run on premise or via a third-party managed service provider. So what does this mean for you?
Choice! In a recent post of ours, we outlined benefits of CRM in the cloud, but there are many companies out there that would benefit more from on premise or third party deployments. But how do you know if these options are right for you?
If you need to supervise and secure data that is locally owned and/or controlled or require in-depth customizations and integration with your current systems for your daily business functions, an on-premise solution is probably the way to go. It is also helpful if you have dedicated IT staff onsite to handle maintenance and support. The key in making the decision to go on-premises is to find the right balance for your business’s needs. Simply put: choose what makes business, security, and technical sense.
Some benefits of an on-premise solution can include…
- Confidential data remains secure onsite
- Full control over data processes
- Ability to integrate with current systems and fully customize to meet your needs
- No dependency on the solution provider
Specializing in the , Sikich is a Chicago-based Microsoft Gold Certified Partner. We work with over 4000 customers in 4 states: Illinois, Indiana, Missouri and Kansas, in a variety of industries with a focus on manufacturing and distribution, professional services, education, and not-for-profit.
By Jim Drumm with Sikich,
