Summary
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a powerful CRM (Customer Relationship Management) tool that automates and optimizes business processes at several levels. However, poor planning can be a significant setback for your operations.
Research suggests that nearly 50% of Dynamics 365 implementations face delays due to poor planning. Such a setback in implementation further adds to the friction in operation and costs to the company. Therefore, ensuring a sound Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation plan is essential. But does the structured approach matter?
Let’s find out as we walk through all 7 phases of Dynamics implementation with pro tips from Microsoft Gold Partners.
Before you jump into Dynamics 365 implementation, running your requirements against a pre-implementation checklist is essential. Here are some boxes you must double-tick before proceeding with the implementation:
Your first step would be to take a step back and carefully analyze the project. At this stage, you’d want to define the project scope and understand what you want to achieve with Dynamics 365. Setting clear success metrics will keep the project on track.
Next, it’s time to determine the D365 module you’re comfortable implementing. Access your existing IT infrastructure to understand whether a CRM, ERP, or other industry-specific solutions fit your business.
Once you’ve finalized the KPIs and modules, it’s time to assign key roles to the individuals involved in implementation. Assign roles like project manager, power platform developer, and reviewer to ensure smooth operations.
No implementation planning is complete without a budget plan. So ensure you’re thorough with the additional costs like data migration and training that might add to the implementation.
To kick off the project, engage stakeholders across departments in structured workshops. The goal is to understand existing workflows, identify pain points, and gather functional and non-functional requirements.
Create a high-level project timeline that includes each phase, major deliverables, and dependencies.
Choose data migration tools based on volume, complexity, and platform compatibility.
Also, consider KingswaySoft if you’re working within SSIS.
Data quality is critical for a successful migration.
Different development approaches should be applied based on complexity and need.
User Acceptance Testing (UAT) ensures the system meets business needs before go-live.
Test how the system behaves under expected and peak usage conditions.
Choose a go-live strategy based on organizational readiness and risk tolerance.
Pilot: Limited user group; allows for controlled feedback and fixes.
Big Bang: The entire user base goes live simultaneously, which is faster but requires high confidence in system readiness.
Prepare for the unexpected with a clear rollback plan.
The hypercare period is a short-term, high-touch support window immediately after deployment.
Improvement doesn’t stop at go-live—it’s an ongoing process.
Conduct quarterly reviews to assess adoption, performance, and ROI.
Underestimating change management is one of the most common pitfalls while implementing D365. As an organization, you need to focus on both the technical and human side of implementation. So ensure that you:
Tip: Consider formal change management frameworks like ADKAR to structure your approach.
Assuming users will “figure it out” is risky and often leads to frustration, low adoption, and resistance.
Start simple, scale fast: Don’t over-customize early on. Launch with core features, then build iteratively.
Document decisions: Maintaining a project log for key choices, assumptions, and changes will reduce confusion later.
Use agile sprints: In non-technical environments, iterative development allows for better feedback and adjustments.
Track KPIs: Measure system performance and business outcomes (e.g., reduced processing time, user satisfaction).
A Center of Excellence is the internal “engine” for ongoing innovation, governance, and support.
Bonus: A CoE helps reduce “shadow IT” and keeps the platform scalable and secure.
Microsoft FastTrack provides guided assistance and resources for Dynamics 365 and Power Platform deployments, and it’s included with eligible licenses.
Tip: Engage FastTrack early to ensure support is aligned with your timeline.
Once you’re ready with the D365 implementation, don’t forget to track your projects via Azure DevOps. It gives you complete transparency while keeping things simple.
Need help managing different roles in your operations? Use the XrmToolBox, a complete platform for managing admins involved in the operation.
Having a certified Dynamics 365 partner for your team is like having an expert who understands the platform’s ins and outs. These professionals help you streamline the implementation with best practices and accelerate deployment, enabling you to leverage the platform without delay.
However, while you’re looking for a partner, ensure that:
Remember, onboarding the right partner can help automate the integration. Choose experts who understand their role in your implementation operations.
Successful Microsoft Dynamics 365 Implementation = 20% technology + 80% planning/adoption.
Implementing D365 can be a hassle when you’re not prepared. Besides, having the right expert and a streamlined implementation partner can save you in more ways than one.
So, ensure you collaborate with professionals who are right for your business.
Need expert help? Our Microsoft-certified team has delivered 50+ implementations— Contact us now and schedule a free consultation today!
These applications are acquiring enormous prevalence by offering hands-on enterprise mobility solutions for organizations around the globe.
Start A Conversation