Migration from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365: A Complete Guide
Across the globe, enterprises have anchored their trust in Dynamics CRM. But there’s a noticeable move towards Dynamics 365. Why this sudden shift?
The clock is ticking on Microsoft Dynamics CRM, particularly its on-premises version 8.1. Reports indicate that this version will be phased out by January 13, 2026. Given this information, the leap to Dynamics 365 isn’t just logical — it’s visionary. With its cloud prowess, AI-infused analytics, and fluid integration, Dynamics 365 emerges as the ideal successor that offers holistic operational excellence.
Dive into this guide for a seamless transition from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365. We’ll spotlight pivotal steps and considerations, setting your organization on a path to success when you migrate. Let’s begin.
What to Consider Before Dynamics 365 Migration
Just like any ERP upgrade, before moving from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365, there are several essential considerations your organization should keep in mind. These considerations will help ensure a smooth and successful transition. Here are the key points:
Define the Project Scope
Provide a detailed description of the goals and parameters for your migration from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365. Identify the specific data, processes, and features to be transferred, and set achievable objectives within a defined timeframe.
Assess the Existing Infrastructure
Conduct a thorough examination of your existing CRM framework, encompassing hardware, software, and data components. Pinpoint potential compatibility challenges or constraints that could impact the Dynamics migration process.
Evaluate Customizations and Extensions
Scrutinize every customization and extension present in your Dynamics CRM setup. Ascertain which elements can be effortlessly migrated to Dynamics 365 and identify those that might necessitate modifications or substitutions.
Get Buy-in from Key Stakeholders
Ensure that key stakeholders, including executives, department heads, and users, are on board with the migration plan. Address their concerns and expectations to secure their support for a smoother transition.
Assemble Your Migration Team
Form a dedicated team with the necessary expertise in Dynamics 365 and migration processes. Assign roles and responsibilities to team members and ensure they are adequately trained. It is safer to bring experts on board unless you’re confident your in-house team has the expertise to handle this task.
Business Continuity and Contingency Planning
Develop a comprehensive strategy for business continuity during the migration. Plan for potential disruptions and implement contingency measures to minimize downtime or data loss. This includes data backup, rollback plans, and user support.
Create a Migration Roadmap
Develop a comprehensive migration roadmap that includes migration steps and data integrity testing. Carefully schedule downtime and system cutover to minimize disruption to business operations, and consider a phased migration approach if applicable, migrating different departments or modules separately.
Considering these key points, you can migrate to Dynamics 365 seamlessly and successfully, with minimal risk and challenges.
Steps for a Seamless Migration From Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365
If you’ve been wondering “How to migrate to Dynamics 365 from Dynamics CRM?” Well, migrating Dynamics CRM on-premise to Dynamics 365 online requires careful planning and execution. Here are the steps to achieve a seamless migration:
1) Identify Features/ Data to be Migrated
Begin by identifying the specific features and data that must be migrated from your existing Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365. This includes customer records, contact information, accounts, leads, opportunities, custom entities, and other relevant data.
2) Clean and Map Data
Once you’ve identified the data to be migrated, perform data cleansing. This involves removing duplicates, correcting errors, and ensuring data accuracy and consistency. Create a data mapping strategy that defines how data from Dynamics CRM will correspond to the data structure in Dynamics 365. This mapping ensures data is placed in the correct fields and entities during migration.
3) Determine the Best Migration Method
Decide the most suitable migration method based on your organization’s needs and resources. Options include using built-in data migration tools such as Microsoft’s Import Wizard, third-party migration tools, or custom scripts. Also, consider whether a one-time “big bang” migration is appropriate or if a phased migration approach, where data is moved in stages, is more suitable. A phased approach is usually recommended.
4) Execute Data Migration
With your data cleaned and mapped and a migration method selected, proceed with the actual data migration. This should preferably be done in a test environment and not live. Monitor the migration and data integration process closely to identify and address any issues or errors that may arise during the transfer.
5) Post-Migration Validation
After the data migration is complete, perform thorough validation to ensure that all data has been accurately transferred. This includes checking records, relationships, and any customizations. Engage end-users to participate in validation to ensure their needs are met and that they can work effectively in the new environment.
6) Go Live
Once data validation is successful and you’re confident in the new system’s functionality, plan the official go-live date. This is when your organization transitions from using Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365 for daily operations. Doing this over the weekend is a good idea as it will allow enough time to iron out any kinks before the work week starts.
7) Continuously Monitor and Optimize
After the migration, maintain a proactive approach to system monitoring. Continuously assess the performance of the new platform, identify any bottlenecks or issues, and optimize configurations, workflows, and customizations as needed. To enhance user satisfaction, pay attention to user feedback and address any usability or functionality concerns.
It is essential to mention here that navigating the complexities of data migration demands expertise; thankfully, that’s where ModLogix excels.
As a Gold-certified Microsoft partner with a wealth of experience handling numerous migration projects, we can help you mitigate risks by implementing essential Dynamics 365 data migration best practices, seamlessly integrating the new system into your existing workflows, providing comprehensive training, and much more.
Ready to migrate from on-premise to online worry-free?
Contact us today to get started!
What are the Challenges in Dynamics 365 Migration?
When transitioning from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365, several key challenges can arise, including data migration, system compatibility, user adoption, customization alignment, and business continuity. Let’s look at each one briefly.
Data Migration Issues
Migrating Dynamics CRM database to Dynamics cloud is complex, often marred by data quality, accuracy, and mapping concerns, especially when vast amounts of data are involved. In fact, according to an Oracle report, over 80% of migration projects encounter difficulties, often stemming from a lack of comprehensive understanding regarding data quality and the extensive effort needed to make the data “fit for purpose.”
So, ensuring data accuracy and completeness during migration is imperative while considering data dependencies and relationships.
System Compatibility
Because Dynamics CRM and 365 employ different technology stacks and architectures, ensuring seamless platform compatibility can be challenging, potentially leading to conflicts. Custom integrations and dependencies may need to be adjusted and rigorous testing to ensure hitch-free functionality.
User Adoption
Successful migration hinges on user adoption; however, transitioning users to a new system can be met with resistance or a learning curve. According to the SHRM, emphasizing the significance of clearly articulating how the new technology will simplify employees’ tasks and enhance the quality of their work will go a long way in helping user adoption.
Customization Compatibility
Customizations and extensions in the source system may not seamlessly migrate to Dynamics 365. They may need adjustments or reimplementation in the new environment, impacting migration timelines and budgets.
Downtime and Business Continuity
Maintaining business continuity while making the switch can be a significant challenge. A comprehensive migration plan should be in place, complete with disaster recovery provisions, thorough testing, and responsive support teams to address potential issues swiftly.
If you’re wondering how to migrate data to Dynamics 365 with little or no challenges, the good news is that migration challenges and hiccups can be eliminated by involving an experienced partner in the migration process. At ModLogix, we boast years of expertise in desktop-to-cloud migration and software modernization. With us, you can transform your Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365 effortlessly.
Consider ModLogix’s Expertise for Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365 Migration
If you want to migrate Dynamics CRM on-premise to Dynamics 365, ModLogix is your premier choice. We’re not just any partner; we are a certified Microsoft expert with a remarkable 20-year track record in modernizing software. This means we possess the knowledge and skills to ensure your transition is smooth and incredibly successful. We’ve handled countless projects like this and have mastered the intricacies of Microsoft technologies. So, when you opt for ModLogix, you’re selecting a partner who knows precisely how to do the job correctly.
In a recent project, we seamlessly migrated from WinForms to .NET Core 3.2 for a client offering financial and insurance services in the healthcare industry. This client was relying on a two-decade-old WinForms system that, while effective, had its limitations, chiefly confined to the Windows operating platform. The need for integration into a modern design built on .NET Core became evident during a merger and acquisition. By the project’s conclusion, customers and users acknowledged a significant enhancement in the platform’s usability and accessibility.
Unlike the previous desktop system, which required extensive manual configurations, the web version allowed users to interact with the application across various platforms. The system’s speed and functionality were also dramatically improved, improving overall efficiency.
You, too, can rely on our time-tested expertise if you’re contemplating a move from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365. Please get in touch to discuss your plans, and we will craft a secure and seamless strategy that minimizes disruption to your business operations.
Conclusion
Transitioning from Dynamics CRM to Dynamics 365 delivers substantial business benefits. It unlocks access to cutting-edge features, streamlines operations, and boosts productivity. With Dynamics 365, companies gain the advantages of a cloud-based platform, offering enhanced flexibility, scalability, and accessibility. However, as already established, the key to a successful migration is working with an experienced tech team, preventing any pitfalls.
If you’re preparing for a Dynamics 365 migration, ModLogix can help. We specialize in guiding companies through technology upgrades, helping you extract the maximum return on your software investment.
