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2 Ways User Acceptance Testing Can Lower Microsoft Dynamics 365 Development Costs

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Updated · Originally published

Are you ready to kick the tires on Dynamics 365?

When we are working on a Microsoft Dynamics 365 (formerly Dynamics CRM) development project we will release it, in intervals, to a staging environment. This allows you, as the customer, to “kick the tires” and validate that what we have delivered is what you expected.

This is called “user acceptance testing”.  This phase is key to keeping your project on time and on budget.

1. Multiple Users

The reason that we solicit feedback in stages during the project is that it is much easier and more cost-effective to make changes during the process rather than after the deployment.

At times, just one person will quickly test the system and tell us it looks fine, just to keep the project moving.  This will usually backfire when other users see the end result and realize that the solution doesn’t work for their specific job requirements.

You need to task multiple people at your company, in various roles, to do extensive testing in different scenarios and provide specific feedback. This will dramatically cut down on the number of expensive change requests that are submitted later.

To avoid delays, this user acceptance testing can be built into the project timeline, allowing you to know in advance when specific individuals will need to be available for this phase.

2. Consolidated Feedback

When we receive multiple emails and are included in email strings while everyone discusses their feedback, it takes extra time. And details are likely to be lost.

You will save money if you provide us with one master consolidated list of feedback and change requests. Be as detailed as you can, even providing screenshots or hand-drawn pictures if that will help to clarify the change you are requesting.

Our goal is to deliver a Dynamics 365 system that exactly fits your needs. The less time we spend doing that, the lower your project costs will be.

By following these tips during the user acceptance testing phase, you will be more satisfied with your Microsoft Dynamics 365 system, and you’ll save money too.

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ForgeXRM develops innovative solutions that drive productivity and empower businesses to achieve more with the Microsoft Power Platform and Dynamics 365.

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By Ryan Plourde, ForgeXRM, www.forgexrm.com

Ryan Plourde

By Ryan Plourde, Principle and Owner, ForgeXRM

As Founder of ForgeXRM, I bring 30+ years of experience helping businesses streamline operations and strengthen relationships through CRM/XRM solutions built on Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Power Platform. My focus is on delivering tailored software solutions that solve real business problems, whether you're managing people, products, or processes. Previously, I founded AbleBridge, a leading Microsoft Partner/CRM solutions provider acquired by Crowe LLP, where I led the firm’s Microsoft practice.