We are often asked about the difference between Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Business Central, and customers are often surprised to hear that the two platforms aren’t directly comparable. In actual fact, Business Central is an app that’s included within the Dynamics 365 solution.
Dynamics 365 is an end-to-end CRM and ERP platform that allows businesses to streamline and unite every aspect of their business. As a cloud-based ERP, Business Central is just one branch of the Dynamics 365 offering and is perfect for SMEs looking to upgrade their enterprise solution.
However, if you are exploring the Business Central package, one comparison you can make between the two services is the CRM functionalities. Are you happy with the CRM functionality that’s included within Business Central’s platform, or will you need to upgrade to Dynamics 365 Sales to unlock advanced CRM tools as you scale?
In this guide, we’ve summarised the difference between the two offerings to help you decide which is right for you.
What is Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central?
Business Central is an all-in-one ERP system that helps you manage your finance, manufacturing, sales, customer service and more, from one place. By integrating with the software you already use, it’s able to offer a higher level of detail on a personalised basis, so everyone across the business is equipped with the right data to make better decisions.
How is Dynamics 365 Business Central different to Dynamics 365 Sales?
Business Central and Dynamics 365 Sales are both product offerings under the Dynamics 365 umbrella. Whereas Business Central improves data and decision-making across all different areas of an SME (including CRM), Dynamics 365 Sales dives deeper into the CRM data. AI data forecasting and personalising customer experiences are just two ways the advanced tool can take your marketing to the next level.
By using the sales capabilities within Business Central, you’ll still be able to transform your team’s way of working. The system offers a full view of your sales cycle, allowing your sales team to prioritise leads based on revenue potential and even spot upsell or renewal opportunities. Plus, with the ability to be able to divide your customers into segments, you’ll be able to create personalised pricing and discounts for individuals.
Taking the functionality up a gear, Dynamics 365 Sales offers a higher level of customisation, making it easier to tailor the platform around your current processes. When it comes to the detail of data, the applications can give you a view of all customer touchpoints (including telephony), so you’re able to gather more insights around their behaviour and tailor your experiences to suit.
In addition, one of the biggest benefits is the AI abilities within the CRM tool. Using Microsoft Sales copilot, the system offers its own sales opportunity scoring, as well as task assistance, such as drafting an email. Using this, your workforce can plan for the future, while the tool deals with the mundane day-to-day tasks.
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Sales vs Business Central: Which better suits your business?
Both systems are great pieces of tech that can be tailored to meet your processes. However, it depends on your level of needs and growth as to which application you require. The CRM functionality is just one aspect of Business Central’s ERP offering, which can help you boost your efficiencies and convert prospects to sales. If you’re in need of deeper detail, the addition of Dynamics 365 Sales will support you on your journey to increasing customer loyalty and satisfaction.
The best news? The two systems can be integrated with one another at any time, so you don’t have to make a decision straight away.
How we can help….
Deciding on the right application can be an overwhelming task for one person. Thankfully we work with over one hundred Microsoft partners, who know these applications like the back of their hand. We can connect you with a partner within your sector, who will sympathise with your business challenges and be able to talk you through the best solution for you. Get in touch to meet your match.
