Article

Data, Data Everywhere…In New Survey, Microsoft Dynamics Customers Report the Need to Improve Usage of ERP and CRM Data

by Jason Gumpert
Editor, MSDynamicsWorld.com

Microsoft Dynamics ERP and CRM applications are gushing forth huge amounts of data, but painfully large amounts of that data aren't being effectively used to solve management challenges.

As a result, many Dynamics users want more value from their transactional data. In a recent survey of nearly 432 Dynamics users carried out by MSDynamicsWorld.com and published by Zap Technology, more than three-fourths (76%) said they need to improve analytical capabilities to remain competitive. They acknowledge the wealth of data that exists, but that improvements are needed to gain access to this data for sophisticated, on-demand analysis.

The survey, which was carried out in April, showed Dynamics users encountering a number of difficulties in making better use of data, including:  reliance on technical staff; the time needed to perform this work; and not having the right tools. "Business users have a clear desire to perform analysis themselves, without relying on technical staff, but aren't sure how to make this a reality," the survey concluded.

As one example, nearly 72% of respondents said they use spreadsheets for analysis and reporting, but problems arise for most because they are not connected to the original Dynamics data source. The problems include human errors and data accuracy; the integrity of the data with users having multiple ‘versions of the truth'; and the time it takes to extract the data.

What kinds of problems are this lack of data creating? The three big areas identified by respondents as not getting the attention required include operational efficiency, containing costs, and managing inventory. Not surprisingly, this differed for CRM customers, who were mainly focused on sales improvement.

Other notable findings from the survey:

  • Only 15% of respondents ...

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About Jason Gumpert

As the editor of MSDynamicsWorld.com, Jason oversees all editorial content on the site and at our events, as well as providing site management and strategy. He can be reached at jgumpert@msdynamicsworld.com.

Prior to co-founding MSDynamicsWorld.com, Jason was a Principal Software Consultant at Parametric Technology Corporation (PTC), where he implemented solutions, trained customers, managed software development, and spent some time in the pre-sales engineering organization. He has also held consulting positions at CSC Consulting and Monitor Group.

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