Top Microsoft Dynamics CRM / 365 stories of 2016, Part 2

Whereas the first half of 2016 saw Dynamics CRM add new features and gain awareness as a beneficiary of the LinkedIn deal, the second half of the year was dominated by the introduction and launch of Dynamics 365. In the article selected below, we look at reaction to Dynamics 365, as well as perspective on the changing roadmap and leading edge use cases for CRM with other Microsoft cloud services.

Microsoft Reveals Dynamics 365 License Details, Clarifying The Future of AX, CRM, Project Madeira (July 13, 2016)

The rollout of Dynamics 365 transforms Dynamics CRM Online into a series of five customer experience apps that can be bought individually or together as a plan (which will continue to operate much as CRM Online has).

When the details of the 365 licensing approach were first revealed at WPC 2016 in July, there was no pricing information available for the apps and plans. Microsoft also lacked the crucial details around transitioning existing CRM Online customers to the new model. As pricing, transition planning, and other readiness details emerged ahead of the November 1 launch date, CRM partners voiced uncertainty about the exact path forward, while maintaining optimism about the longer term future.

By the beginning of November, Microsoft had created some breathing room via an extension on auto-renewal of CRM Online through February 1, 2017, avoiding the most unprepared customers from being forced into a new licensing scheme that neither they nor their partners were ready for yet.

CRM partners have remarked that the transition may not be seen as advantageous for many CRM Online customers. The potential of a price ...