Convergence 2013: Predicting the Near and Distant Future of Microsoft Dynamics

With Convergence 2013 just days away, attendees are gearing up to hear the latest from Microsoft on a range of topics, large and small.  Some have even started rhyming.

Whether it's the long term product roadmap or enhancements to a single feature, attendees want to know what's now and what's next.  Convergence tends to be a great opportunity to hear Microsoft representatives update their views on topics that may have been off the record at past events. The event also draws quite a few industry analysts who want to hear not only how Microsoft will compete in ERP and CRM, but how the Dynamics teams will integrate and align their product strategies with other Microsoft divisions.

What follows is a gaze into our crystal ball: a few topics that we think Microsoft either will or should address for Convergence 2013 attendees.  Different product teams have taken on some seriously ambitious long term projects, from transforming CRM to the next generation of AX to the overall ERP cloud vision (or visions). If you're eager for an update on another specific topic that's missed here, share it with us in the comments.

The Emerging Dynamics CRM App Strategy

Word is that Microsoft Dynamics CRM CVP Bob Stutz wants his product to evolve into a series of offerings that are specialized and ready-to-use out of the box, as opposed to a platform that partners have to configure, customize, or bolster with add-on solutions to meet each customer's needs.  While Microsoft has assured partners that the platform side of things, or xRM, will continue to improve as the product evolves, the real wake up call at Convergence may be for CRM ...