By now, you've likely heard about Dynamics 365, and how it will transform the world of Dynamics CRM, by providing users with more integrated business applications. But if you're a current Microsoft Dynamics CRM user, you probably have one main question – what does Dynamics 365 mean for me?

The first thing you should know, is that Microsoft Dynamics CRM as a platform is not going away. Microsoft is simply changing the name of the platform to "Dynamics 365," updating how the software is licensed, and adding some awesome functionality. Whereas users used to need a Microsoft Dynamics CRM Professional, Basic, or Essential license, users now have the ability to choose "Application" licenses or "Plan" licenses for full users, and "Team Member" licenses for light users. The Application licenses cover each of 5 functional areas – Sales, Customer Service, Field Service, Project Service, and Marketing (in the future). There's also an application license for PowerApps, which is a platform that allows end users to build their own apps! But that's a topic for a future blog.

The Plan licenses encompass all of the applications listed above (called "Plan 1"), and a component called "Operations" (called "Plan 2"). The Operations application is what used to be known as Microsoft Dynamics AX. The Team Member license gives users access to read everything in the applications, with some limited write capabilities as well.

In case you're a more visual person, here's a picture:

Dynamics 365 licenses will be available starting November 1^st, but users can choose to wait until the end of their current subscription agreement, to switch to Dynamics 365. There is some transition pricing available for current Microsoft Dynamics CRM users, which allows you to upgrade to Dynamics 365 at a lower cost. PowerObjects can also help you lock in your current pricing on your professional, basic and essential CRM licenses, for 1 year. Contact us.

If you're thoroughly confused, or you'd just like to talk to someone about how your current licenses will translate to Dynamics 365, call us! PowerObjects is more than happy to help you understand Dynamics 365, and what it means for you.

Happy Dynamics 365'ing!