Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2015 is Here!

As of October 1st, Microsoft has made Dynamics NAV 2015 generally available. This is the first major NAV release since October, 2012 and the first update to NAV since the 2013 R2 update last October. The new release includes some considerable enhancements for users, enabling them to be more focused and task-oriented in their day-to-day use of the application through the use of web browsers, SharePoint, and tablet.

Microsoft Dynamics NAV for Tablet Apps can be downloaded from the iOS App Store, Google Play, and/or the Windows Store. The app opens up in the familiar tile view, along with direct access to the most common task base on the user role configuration, to make the user as comfortable, and navigation as simple, as possible.

 

The Role Center tiles can be configured with color indicators to alert the user of actions needed, or displayed as KPI data. These indicators can be set on an individual level so the user can set their own alerts to maximize the benefits to the specific user on their terms. When a change is initiated through on the various access points, like on a tablet or other mobile device, the change is saved globally and therefore immediately available on all user interfaces.

Other features include the user defined document layout option using Microsoft Word to edit the document layouts, including graphics, fonts, and text size. Report Scheduling is available for reoccurring reports to be distributed periodically. A significant focus on NAV 2015 is improving the access and distribution of available information for a more convenient user experience. You can contact our NAV team to learn more about Microsoft Dynamics NAV and the new features on NAV 2015.

What’s New with Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013? – Mobile Capabilities

One of the most, if not the most, expected releases from Microsoft this year was Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013. This Dynamics CRM overhaul was aimed at making the program cleaner, faster, and more intuitive. Primarily, making CRM easier for the user.

We’ve already discussed the improved navigation and enhanced communication features. Now we’ll take a look at CRM outside of the office, focusing on the highly-touted mobile capabilities. Microsoft’s goal is to create a consistent user experience across all devices.

Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013 is available now for Android, iPhone, and Windows Phone, with more comprehensive features on the iPad and Windows 8 mobile applications. The Mobile Client App (MoCA), allows for personalized tiles on the start screen, and all controls are touch-friendly.

While on the go, the major processes that are supported in the mobile app are filtering and Business Process flows. Searching and adjusting basic information (contact information, dates, account, etc.) is simple as all it takes is one touch to drill down or open an activity. Of course, a true mobile application has to include a call feature. The Mobile Client App is both phone and e-mail aware. When starting a call, an activity window opens up to allow the user to take notes.

Want to take a look at more specifics on the mobile capabilities? Eric Bookcock, Microsoft’s Senior Product Marketing Manager for Microsoft Dynamics CRM, dives deeper into CRM for tablets and phones here:

Only a few months into the lifecycle of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013, there are still dozens of features, tips, and tricks that can be learned. SBS Group offers Dynamics CRM 2013 in our “Up in 2” program. We can get your organization up and running on Dynamics CRM 2013 in just 2 weeks. You can contact us from more information and look for more posts on Dynamics CRM features, tips, and tricks.

Remotely Controlling Mobile Collaboration

Back in 2006, only 14% of employers offered teleworking to employees. In 2011, that number was up to nearly 60%. According to the 2010 US census, “…9.4% of U.S. workers, labored at least one day at home per week in 2010, compared with 9.2 million people, or 7% of U.S. workers in 1997”. That’s an increase of over 4 million workers during that period. The movement towards remote working is becoming a considerable influence in companies.

With more employees working on the road, at home, or spread across the country, collaboration has become an increasingly difficult concept to constructively apply. Many professional service companies have employees and clients spread throughout numerous regions, with a variety of issues that need to be resolved.

Here at SBS Group, we have over 35 offices, spread throughout the United States. On a weekly basis, there are calls from our New Jersey headquarters with sales personnel in Texas and Ohio, marketing calls with team members in Chicago, Denver, and Kansas, and presentations with consultants from Pennsylvania and Oklahoma. Mobile collaboration has played a significant role in making sure all these moving parts work together.

One of the best ways to keep groups connected is through internal applications. “A recent survey of IT pros at 6,275 organizations found 66 percent were considering developing a corporate app store.” With products like Microsoft SharePoint, companies can build apps for laptops, netbooks, tablets, and phones to “…provide workers access to the information and applications that they need to do their jobs.”

The ability to share content at a mobile level and provide instant access to data and presentations allows for collaboration in the office, at home, or on the road. One of the biggest challenges to implementing successful collaboration strategies is cost. SBS Group offers a low cost, fixed solution to get your employees collaborating in just two weeks. Check out our program: Microsoft SharePoint Up in 2 and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.