I’ve been in the software industry for over 16 years. It’s an exciting time to see how technology connects us. So, let’s talk CRM. Yes, the three-letter acronym for Customer Relationship Management. More specifically, Microsoft Dynamics CRM. In 2003 Microsoft released CRM 1.0. I remember that well. And, at that time, I was selling a system called SalesLogix. My business then, First Tech Direct, quickly shifted towards Microsoft’s CRM solution because of the platform it was built on: a very robust and open platform.
Becoming an early adopter had its pluses and minuses; and truly, more pluses than minuses. Like many other Microsoft partners, we had the ability to provide feedback on real-world experiences. Microsoft did an excellent job incorporating the numerous recommendations from its partner channel.
CRM 3.0
In 2005, Microsoft Dynamics CRM 3.0 was released to include, sales, marketing and customer service capabilities. That was a game changer. Why? Well, these applications were built from the ground up to allow for a more flexible web-based architecture. You get a great platform with a complete toolset that allows your business to be more intelligent. What’s even better, it’s customizable to your business needs. You get to see what matters most for your business.
Dynamics 365
So, let’s fast forward to 2016. Microsoft did a rebranding of their CRM solution. In my opinion, they realized that they were sitting on a gold mine. It was really the platform that made CRM. CRM was just another amazing application on the platform. They rebranded Microsoft Dynamics CRM to be called Dynamics 365. If I have now confused you, please take a look at the diagram below.
It’s really important to know that the platform is what made Microsoft CRM so powerful. An open and robust platform that now hosts over 5 million users worldwide. Think of Dynamics 365 as an application with one common database. A shared platform . . .
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that is cloud-based
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with the same user interface
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to meet the unique needs for businesses
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for all lines of businesses
And, did you know that the 2nd most popular software purchased by businesses is CRM? By the way, the 1st is accounting. Why am I mentioning this? Well, what if you could have all your applications all on one platform with just one database to manage? A platform that allows businesses to pick and choose which modules to use.
Robust financials
Well, let me introduce you to Gravity Software® (Gravity). Gravity’s robust mid-market accounting application is written on the Microsoft Power Platform (aka Dynamics 365 CRM). Gravity fills the gap between entry level accounting applications like QuickBooks and expensive enterprise applications.
If you already own Microsoft CRM and you’re in the market for a new accounting solution, take a look at Gravity. But, you don’t have to own Microsoft CRM to get started with Gravity. You can grow at any time and add the functions that your company needs. Modules like Sales, Marketing, Service, Job Cost, Time and Billing, for example, can be easily added as your company grows.
Well it’s been an incredible journey since the initial release of the Microsoft CRM solution, and the potential is really endless. By utilizing the Microsoft Power Platform, Gravity makes it simple for businesses to operate from anywhere, at any time without all the startup costs associated with other accounting applications. Learn more and schedule your online demo today! My business is connected. Is yours?
Gravity Software
Better. Smarter. Accounting.
