Open source shopping carts grow up: How Microsoft Dynamics customers can take advantage

Historically, Microsoft Dynamics ERP customers that wanted to add eCommerce have looked to a proprietary solution built to work specifically with Dynamics. In the past, a proprietary, or closed, solution made sense - more generally available eCommerce systems were either too expensive, too basic, or too unreliable.  But as open source solutions like Magento and others have evolved in the last few years, they have caught the attention of more small and mid-sized businesses. Open source systems are now feature-rich, cover a full range of online business needs and channels, and can be integrated with ERP, CRM, and other critical business systems more easily.  If you own an older proprietary shopping cart solution, it may be worth investigating how it compares to modern open source options.

Expand your reach: Sell through multiple channels

If you restrict yourself to selling through your website, you are missing out. Because open source shopping carts are developed by a community of contributors who are motivated to take advantage of the latest trends, these solutions have been adapting to the evolution of online marketplaces for years. For Microsoft Dynamics users, a good open source solution can already help you sell through multiple online stores, third-party marketplaces, such as Amazon, Rakuten, and eBay, and consumer social channels, including Facebook.  Closed systems are less likely to support this multiple commerce approach already due to the challenges of integrating proprietary shopping carts with the other aspects of your business.

Don't exclude other business-critical systems

Dynamics users will succeed online if they wish to increase revenue while reduce operating costs. This means eliminating inefficiencies by integrating business systems together. ERP integration is a good start, but other critical systems include your CRM, ...