Escape from Salesforce: Beware lock-in risks when migrating to Microsoft Dynamics CRM, says one partner

Cost.

Saving money is the main reason companies should think about making the switch from Salesforce.com to Microsoft Dynamics CRM, according to Steve Mordue, CEO of Microsoft partner Forceworks.

"The annual all-in spend for Dynamics CRM is a fraction of that for Salesforce.com," Mordue said in a recent blog post. Mordue is a former Salesforce partner who is now making the case for Dynamics CRM, his new product of choice. While obviously supporting the Microsoft view of things, the post also highlights one of the more serious concerns of SaaS customers - vendor lock-in - and how, he says, Salesforce may be making it difficult for his clients to make the move to Dynamics CRM.

The basis of Mordue's argument is that Salesforce.com doesn't like to lose, and as such makes migrating to Dynamics CRM a challenge for companies, hoping that they will "see the light," and remain happily in the Salesforce.com fold.

"[But] in reality, their antics cause customers to become even more determined to leave," he said.

Based on his experience helping clients with Salesforce.com to Dynamics CRM Online migrations, Mordue had some tips for companies thinking about going down the same road. The first thing to do is plan ahead, because unlike Microsoft, Salesforce.com lcustomers often sign annual, or longer, commitments, he said. And sometimes when Salesforce.com com customers get their renewal bills, they'll start to look for less expensive alternatives - but more often than not, it's too late, Mordue said.

"I mean, you have to establish a Dynamics CRM account, ...