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Dynamics CRM field experts show off next gen integration; Can Microsoft keep up with the channel?

by Jason Gumpert
Editor, MSDynamicsWorld.com

Microsoft Dynamics CRM professionals are nothing if not hungry to use the latest cool technology, so when Microsoft dangles new technology in front of them like, for example, big data, cloud, or social tools, there is a good chance a motivated expert is going to take it for a spin.

Two new examples highlight the capabilities - and a few hurdles - to make Dynamics CRM play well with the newest Microsoft technology.  One example brings Excel 2013 GeoFlow capabilities to life on Dynamics CRM data, and another steps through a powerful way to integrate CRM Online and SharePoint Online using REST and ADFS for more flexible server to server communication.

Touring web site visitor activity with GeoFlow

Jukka Niiranen has taken Excel 2013 GeoFlow for a spin around his CRM data, and the results have the kind of wow factor that should inspire more demos and prototypes.   

Integration from Dynamics CRM Online has not traditionally been possible using OData feeds due to the claims-based authentication of CRM Online, Niiranen explained.  But now there are workarounds that use a few minor tricks to successfully authenticate.

Once authentication is worked out, data can be pulled and managed in on the desktop in Excel 2013 and PowerPivot. At this point, Power View and the GeoFlow capabilities can start working their magic.  As Niiranen explains:

"The great thing about Power View as well as GeoFlow is that they can identify geographic variables directly ...

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ADFS BI and Reporting CRM 2011 Data Integration Dynamics CRM Dynamics CRM Online GeoFlow Power View PowerPivot
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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