What is Microsoft Dynamics 365?
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a cloud-based business applications platform that combines components of CRM (customer relationship management) and ERP (enterprise resource planning) into an integrated solution. With CRM at the heart of your business, it’s vital to discover the best Microsoft Dynamics 365 partners for your organization to streamline operations and drive digital transformation.
Dynamics 365 provides tools to manage critical business processes across sales, customer service, finance, operations, talent, and marketing. It delivers intelligent business applications enhanced with artificial intelligence, machine learning and data analytics capabilities.
As a cloud service, Dynamics 365 enables businesses to streamline operations, make data-driven decisions, and adapt quickly in a fast changing world. It offers flexibility with deployment options via public cloud, private cloud or a hybrid model.
Some key benefits and capabilities of Microsoft Dynamics 365 include:
- Unified data model connecting CRM and ERP
- Flexible modular applications for specific business needs
- Insights from connected field service, sales, marketing and other data
- Embedded intelligence through AI and machine learning
- Optimized for mobile and offline usage scenarios
- Global scalability and security of cloud delivery
- Continuous updates provided through regular updates
Overall, Dynamics 365 positions Microsoft as a leader in business applications. It combines the power of Azure cloud, Office 365 productivity tools and intelligent business apps for organizations of all sizes across any industry.
Quick List
How do you discover the best Microsoft Dynamics 365 partners, and what criteria should you consider when selecting a Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner?
Choosing the right Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner is crucial for a successful implementation. With so many options to choose from, it can be challenging to determine which partner is the best fit for your business. Here are some of the most important factors to consider when evaluating Dynamics 365 partners:
Industry Expertise
Look for a partner with extensive experience in your specific industry. They will understand your business processes and requirements better than a generic consultant. Industry expertise goes beyond just knowing the software; it means understanding the nuances of your vertical and business.
Technical Capabilities
Ensure the partner has certified Dynamics 365 consultants on staff. They should be able to handle complex integrations and customizations. Evaluate their development capabilities as well. You want a partner that can deliver technical solutions tailored to your needs.
Implementation Experience
Select a partner with a solid track record of successful Dynamics 365 implementations. Ask for client references and case studies. Experience rolling out Dynamics 365 projects reduces risk and ensures smoother deployments.
Support and Training
Your partner should provide ongoing support after launch. Make sure they offer training for your staff as well. This enables your team to fully utilize Dynamics 365 and get the most out of your investment.
Pricing
Partners have varying fee structures. Get quotes from multiple vendors. Look beyond just implementation costs at ongoing fees. Make sure the partner’s pricing aligns with your budget.
The Ideal Fit for your Business
Most importantly, the partner should understand your business goals and be able to translate those into an effective Dynamics 365 solution. Ensure your partner listens to your needs and you feel confident in their recommendations. The ideal partner acts as a trusted advisor that gets to know your business inside and out.
Doing thorough research and asking the right questions will lead you to the perfect Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner to meet your specific needs. This gives you the highest chance for a successful implementation.
1. WayPath Consulting
Overview
WayPath is a Gold Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner founded in 1997. A boutique firm, WayPath prioritizes highly attentive, personalized service. Their in-depth research and understanding of each client’s business nuances enable them to implement Microsoft Dynamics 365 solutions that meet very specific needs. They have extensive experience implementing Dynamics 365 solutions for organizations across many industries including manufacturing, distribution, professional services, and more. Their team has deep expertise in Dynamics 365 Sales, Customer Service, Field Service, Marketing, and other modules.
Services
- Implementation services for all Dynamics 365 modules
- Custom development and integrations
- Managed services and support
- Training and adoption services
- Industry-specific solutions and expertise
Pros
- 15+ years of Dynamics 365 experience
- 500+ successful Dynamics 365 projects delivered
- Deep bench of certified Dynamics 365 consultants
- Industry-specific solutions and expertise
- Global delivery capabilities
Cons
- Limited presence outside North America
- Less experience with niche Dynamics 365 modules
Pricing
As a top Microsoft partner, WayPath offers flexible pricing models for Dynamics 365 implementations and services. Pricing is customized based on the scope, complexity, and timeline of each project. They offer fixed fee, time and materials, and managed services pricing. Exact costs are not publicly listed, but they offer very competitive rates compared to other top Dynamics partners.
2. Dynamics Square
Overview
Dynamics Square is a leading Microsoft Dynamics 365 consulting partner focused on providing end-to-end Dynamics implementations and customizations. Founded in 2009, they have over a decade of experience delivering Dynamics solutions to enterprises worldwide.
Services
- Full service Dynamics 365 implementation partner for ERP and CRM
- Extensive expertise across Dynamics 365 Finance, Supply Chain Management, Sales, Customer Service, Field Service, Marketing, and more
- Onshore and offshore delivery capabilities
- Industry solutions for manufacturing, distribution, professional services, public sector
- Custom add-ons and integration to extend Dynamics 365 capabilities
Pros
- Deep technical and functional expertise in Dynamics 365
- Global delivery presence across North America, Europe, Middle East and Asia Pacific
- Flexible engagement models (fixed-fee, T&M)
- Strong customer focus with 95% retention rate
- Microsoft Gold Partner with multiple competencies
Cons
- Less experience in some newer Dynamics 365 applications like Field Service
- Majority of clients are enterprise-level organizations
- Limited presence in certain geographies like Latin America
Pricing
Dynamics Square provides flexible pricing models based on fixed-fee and time and material structures. Pricing depends on the complexity, scope, location and duration of the engagement. Contact Dynamics Square for a customized quote.
3. Alithya
Overview
Alithya is a leading Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner with over 2,200 professionals providing ERP, CRM, business intelligence, digital solutions, application services, blockchain and cybersecurity services across North America. They have been a Microsoft partner for over 30 years and have extensive industry expertise across manufacturing, financial services, healthcare, professional services, public sector and telecom.
Services
- Consulting and implementation services for Dynamics 365, Power Platform, Azure and Microsoft 365
- Custom application and integration development
- Managed services and 24/7 support
- Industry-specific solutions for manufacturing, financial services, healthcare and professional services
- AI and data analytics capabilities
Pros
- Deep Microsoft partnership and expertise
- Industry-tailored solutions and experience
- Full lifecycle services from strategy to managed services
- Global delivery capabilities
Cons
- More focused on large enterprise clients
- Limited presence outside of North America
- Less specialized expertise in niche Dynamics 365 modules
Pricing
As a large global company, Alithya does not publish set pricing but provides custom quotes based on each client’s unique needs and scope. Their services are targeted towards medium and large enterprises with complex needs and budgets to match.
4. HCL Tech
Overview
HCL Tech is a leading Microsoft Dynamics 365 consulting partner with over 20 years of experience implementing Dynamics solutions. They have worked with over 4000 customers across various industries.
Services
- Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations
- Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement
- Power Platform
- Data and AI
- Azure Services
- Modern Workplace
Pros
- Deep expertise across all Dynamics 365 modules and versions
- Industry-specific solutions and accelerators
- Focus on user adoption and change management
- Global delivery capabilities
- Microsoft Partner of the Year award winner
Cons
- Limited presence outside of North America
- Less experience with niche or emerging tech like IoT
- Not suited for small or mid-market clients
Pricing
HCL Tech does not publicly list pricing information. Fees are customized based on the scope, complexity, and timeline of each project. Expect fees to be in line with other top-tier Microsoft partners. Contact PowerObjects for a detailed project quote.
5. Avanade
Overview
Avanade is a global consulting and technology company focused on the Microsoft ecosystem. Founded in 2000, it is a joint venture between Microsoft and Accenture. Avanade has over 50,000 professionals worldwide and has delivered solutions for thousands of clients across multiple industries.
Services
- Full lifecycle services for Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation, customization, integration, upgrades, support, and more.
- Deep expertise across Dynamics 365 applications Sales, Customer Service, Field Service, Marketing, Finance, Supply Chain, Talent, and Retail.
- Industry-specific solutions and accelerators for manufacturing, retail, financial services, public sector, healthcare, and professional services.
- Advisory services for digital transformation, cloud migration, AI, analytics, and Dynamics 365.
Pros
- Strong partnership with Microsoft provides early access to Dynamics 365 updates.
- Global reach with local offices provides both worldwide expertise and regional knowledge.
- Industry expertise from delivering Dynamics 365 solutions for 20+ years.
- Integrated offerings spanning strategy, implementation, apps, AI, and managed services.
Cons
- As a large global company, local account management can vary.
- Less specialized in niche Dynamics 365 applications and products.
- Higher cost provider relative to smaller partners.
Pricing
As a large consulting firm, Avanade has complex pricing models that vary by project size, scope, location, and services required. They do not publicly list rates. Pricing is customized during the proposal stage and scaled based on level of effort and resources needed. Buyers can expect fees competitive within the major SI market.
6. Sunrise Technologies
Overview
Sunrise Technologies is a leading Microsoft Dynamics 365 consulting partner with over 20 years of experience implementing Dynamics solutions for businesses. They have a dedicated team of Dynamics consultants and developers that focus exclusively on Dynamics implementations.
Services
- Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations
- Dynamics 365 Customer Engagement
- Dynamics 365 Business Central
- Power Platform solutions
- Data and AI solutions
Pros
- Deep expertise and experience with Dynamics 365
- Focus on manufacturing, distribution, professional services, and public sector
- Full lifecycle services from assessment to deployment and support
- Strong project management and business analysis capabilities
- Global delivery capabilities
Cons
- Mostly focused on US market
- Less experience with niche Dynamics add-ons and ISV solutions
Pricing
Sunrise Technologies does not publicly list pricing information. As a professional services firm, pricing is customized based on the scope, complexity, and timeline of each client project. They offer fixed fee projects as well as time and materials engagements.
Conclusion
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a powerful cloud-based business applications platform that can help companies streamline their operations and transform digitally. When selecting a Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner, it’s important to consider their industry expertise, experience implementing Dynamics 365, customer reviews, services offered, and pricing structure.
Based on the research conducted for this article, here are some top recommendations for Microsoft Dynamics 365 partners to consider in 2024:
- WayPath Consulting – A great choice for complex Dynamics 365 deployments and custom app development. They have deep technical expertise and experience with large enterprises as well as mid-market companies.
- PowerObjects – Recommended for their focus on Dynamics 365 and first-party apps. They have pre-built solutions and strong Dynamics 365 community engagement.
- Avanade – A large Microsoft partner with extensive experience deploying Dynamics 365 globally. They offer full lifecycle services.
- Alithya – A strong option for manufacturing and distribution companies needing Dynamics 365 and Power Platform skills.
- Dynamics Square – A top pick for SMBs needing a Dynamics 365 partner with fixed-fee pricing and responsive support.
The right Microsoft Dynamics 365 partner for your business depends on your industry, business needs, and budget. Evaluate partners closely across these criteria before selecting one to help implement a successful Dynamics 365 solution. With the capabilities of Dynamics 365 and the expertise of the right partner, your company can transform its operations for the future.
