Microsoft Dynamics Partner Roundup: Retail VAR Merger; Master VAR Adds Affiliate; CRM Go-Live; New Partnerships

In this week's Microsoft Dynamics partner news roundup:

• RITE, Retail Automation Merge;
• Driving Force Software Tapped as Socius Affiliate;
• Columbus Partners with ZAP;
• Ignify Takes JWC Environmental Live on Microsoft Dynamics CRM;
• Ciklum Launches Microsoft Dynamics Unit

RITE Merges with Retail Automation

Microsoft Dynamics retail partners Retail Information Technology Enterprises (RITE) and Retail Automation Systems (RAS) have joined forces to provide end-to-end retail software, hardware and IT services to the global retail industry.

Under RITE's logo, the new company will serve all retailers including department stores, fashion, sporting goods and teams, electronics, toys, museums, pet stores, and wholesale and retail beer, wine and liquor, according to company officials. RITE officials also say it will soon get a "rare" certification in Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail. Retail Realm's AX Alliance extends these disciplines internationally.

The company will provide Microsoft Dynamics Retail Management System (RMS), RMS NextGen, and Retalon predictive analytics software to speed checkout lines, slash inventory and purchasing times, and streamline back-office tasks to enhance ROI, according to officials. It will also provide Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail.

All products and services will be sold directly to retailers, through the Microsoft Partner Channel, and internationally through Retail Realm's AX Alliance, officials said.

Driving Force Software Accepted as Socius Affiliate in Microsoft Dynamics Master VAR Program

Socius, a business management solutions provider and a Microsoft Dynamics Master VAR, has expanded its national Affiliate network by accepting Driving Force Software, a Microsoft Dynamics GP practice based in Atlanta, ...