Microsoft Dynamics CRM and Custom Apps for the iPad

As mentioned in our previous blog post, the iPad is becoming more and more popular in the business world.  According to a study by Business Journals released in May of this year, iPad usage nearly quadrupled among small businesses in 2011.  And according to a January article in Forbes, Apple and the iPad continue to penetrate deeper into the enterprise market.  Current statistics are hard to find, but it’s safe to assume this trend is continuing in 2012.

So how are corporations and small businesses actually using iPads?  Answering emails is obviously one of the most frequent operations, and there are thousands of business apps available to tackle standard processes such as taking notes, performing complex calculations, and even taking payments.  Two companies offer apps that bring CRM data to the iPad: CWR Mobility and Resco.  But when a company has unique business needs and processes, they may want to consider a custom app.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM is an excellent back-end solution for custom apps.  Connecting to the CRM database involves standard web service calls, and the flexibility of the database allows organizations to create custom entities and workflows that fit their needs.  Data can be stored locally on the device and synchronized periodically with CRM, providing users with offline capabilities – a functionality that is often overlooked but incredibly handy.  Additional functionalities such as GPS tracking, signature capture, picture taking, and PDF creation can also be built into the app.  Device management software is available that gives administrators the ability to lock out certain functions, manage updates, and remotely lock and wipe.

2B Solutions is currently working with customers and prospects on projects using existing and custom apps.  As with all software projects, documenting the requirements is critical, and we believe it is best to take a phased approach.  Address critical needs first, then tackle updates and improvements in subsequent phases.

2B Solutions, Inc. specializes in Microsoft Dynamics Customer Relationship Management (CRM), iOS development, and mobile applications that give organizations the ability to respond to their customers and critical events from anywhere.  Dynamics CRM offerings include deployment and customizations for businesses of all sizes in industries of finance, health services, education, retail, distribution, warehousing, and government.  Our custom mobile applications include 2B-Inventory – a complete mobile inventory and store management application for retailers and warehouses.  2B Solutions has also developed mobile applications for mobile sales, asset tracking, and event tracking, among others.  2B Solutions is a certified Microsoft Partner with competencies in Microsoft Mobility Solutions, Microsoft Business Solutions, and ISV/Software Solutions.

by 2BSolutions