A Preview of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015

Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015:  New Capabilities in the New Year!

With the release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015 just around the corner, understanding the biggest changes to the system is important for businesses that want to migrate to the newest version as well as companies looking to use the platform for the first time. Continuing with the overarching theme of Microsoft's drive to connect sales and marketing departments with the software, many of the improvements have been made in that space. In its advance preview guide for the system, the software maker emphasized a growing need for businesses to establish a seamless, end-to-end experience that keeps customers engaged. Many of the system changes have been made with that need in mind.

The new capabilities will be available in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015, Microsoft Dynamics CRM Online (2015 Update) and Microsoft Social Listening (2014 R2).

Adapting to a changing business world

Using internally gathered statistics, Microsoft highlighted the change in the way the sales cycle now performs. Microsoft pointed out that most customers are more than halfway through the process of deciding to make a purchase before they get in touch with a given company. The improvements in Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015 are geared toward engaging customers effectively in a quick fashion and across many different contact channels, as well as building the sales pipeline. Additionally, measurement tools are in place to help track the efficacy of marketing efforts internally.

Here's a quick look at just a few of the new tools and enhancements that are available:

1. Product family creation: Sales teams can preset various bundles of associated and related products, creating an instant, relevant opportunity to up-sell or cross-sell when discussing a purchase with a consumer. 
2. Use sales hierarchies: Sales data becomes more flexible in terms of both managing and reporting as new methods of visualizations allow for sales staff to understand projections and territory-based data points.
3. Enhanced mobile functionality: Outside sales teams can get more out of Dynamics CRM while away from the office by using role-tailored dashboards and hierarchical navigation. Support for disconnected scenarios has also been improved. 
4. Multichannel Campaign management: Improvements such as graphical email editing, A/B and split testing and approval workflows are now available to marketers. 
5. Improved resource management: An interactive marketing calendar allows for better visibility in terms of resources and allotment over the course of a campaign, while enhanced functionality around click-to-call and webinar features make it easier to collaborate.

With all of the positive changes made in this newest version of Dynamics CRM, it's easy to see why many users are excited for its release. Find out more about the newest version with Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015 Release Preview Guide.

If you are considering implementing CRM in your business, it's a great time to consider Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2015.  Keep in mind, adding a new CRM system and undergoing a CRM implementation isn't a quick process, but it's certainly worth the time invested. Businesses that can encourage best practices and avoid common pain points in the process will be more able to take advantage of CRM and start realizing their return on investment as soon as possible.

To learn more about our solutions and services, please visit www.tmgroupinc.com or contact us at 888-482-2864. Now is a great time to contact The TM Group to accomplish your CRM and ERP goals. We have been providing superior business technology solutions since 1984. Our TM Group consultants vast expertise can architect the ideal system within your budget and timeline.

By The TM Group, a Michigan-based ERP system partner with NetSuite, Microsoft Dynamics GP, Dynamics SL, Dynamics NAV and Microsoft Dynamics CRM Partner