Choosing a focal point: How to approach Microsoft Dynamics CRM's Spring 2014 release wave

With a second quarter due date, the Spring 2014 release wave for Microsoft Dynamics CRM is nearing availability. Microsoft has delivered Dynamics CRM update training for partners and a Spring 2014 release preview guide, though they have not revealed a formal launch date. The release will mark next step in a faster overall Dynamics CRM and ERP roadmap that will add tools and capabilities on a more consistent basis. The release also solidifies Microsoft's commitment to making Dynamics CRM competitive by expanding its footprint.

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The Spring 2014 wave of releases is perhaps most notable for the way it changes the product into a product line - with a mix of both organic and inorganic expansion. It's a mix that some find unsettling.

"I never considered that Microsoft would be purchasing apps that are not on the platform and will not be deeply integrated," one Dynamics CRM veteran said recently regarding the product roadmap.

Depending on your perspective, the product's new direction, which includes the introduction of updated integrations to the three acquired products - NetBreeze (Microsoft Social Listening), MarketingPilot (Microsoft Dynamics Markerting), and Parature - may seem too heavily weighted toward inorganic product growth that broaden the platform and less toward developing the base product. But in fairness, the release wave also includes some significant improvements in the area of customer service, as well as other platform improvements.

To get a sense of ...