Make Your Microsoft Dynamics CRM Implementation More Successful by Taking an Active Role

In many cases the implementation of software can be very simple. You request it like an email account, do simple configuration, and it works. Then there are exceptions like Microsoft Dynamics CRM. While some people feel that installing a CRM system is a goal on its own, if you are reading this then you should know that a product like Dynamics CRM is only a tool that supports your business processes.  Without a plan to implement your processes, you will not have a Dynamics CRM solution.

Whether you are implementing existing processes or designing new ones from scratch, the goal is of course to do a successful implementation that produces a CRM solution that users adopt quickly.  While it is important to have a good implementation partner in such a project, it is just as important to have an internal team that is ready and willing to contribute to the success of the project.

I will discuss some main topics that I come across during my Dynamics CRM projects that I would suggest any Dynamics CRM customer take into account to ensure they do their part to be successful.

Determine your goals

In the process of developing your RFP you should define your goals in detail. If you already have CRM processes in place then, think about how you would like to fine-tune or enhance them with new areas of CRM like social media, pipeline management or with business intelligence.

In case you are new to CRM, take this opportunity to explain clearly what you would expect and would like to achieve. It is a nightmare for consultants if they read things like "We want to use CRM to help follow up on our opportunities." You should ...