What MS-Salesforce integration means for your ERP system
On-Premise, Cloud, or Hybrid? ERP Systems and How to Unlock Their Potential with Microsoft-Salesforce Integration
Deciding on a new software or system for your business can be a rabbit-hole of research and uncertainty, and this is doubly true if the software or system in question is as complex and game-changing as an ERP or CRM. And even when an organization has solidified its ERP and CRM choices, they will invariably confront the pressing issue of data integration between systems.
Data integration optimizes the performance of both their ERP and CRM systems, and allows managerial staff access to the most up-to-date and relevant information. When an enterprise opts for a Microsoft-Salesforce integration, they’re investing in optimized customer service and higher quality business intelligence—invaluable resources in today’s rapidly shifting market landscape.
Perhaps you’ve already settled on an ERP such as Dynamics NAV from among Microsoft’s flight of options; that’s a good start, but you’ll still need to figure out if on-premise deployment, hybrid deployment or a cloud-based system is right for you. It may seem daunting, but with a little bit of research, the correct choice will make itself apparent.
Let’s start from the beginning. In the early days of ERP, on-premise solutions were complicated, expensive, and time consuming to implement effectively. They required consultants, and the entire process could get in the way of time-sensitive projects. On-premise ERPs run on servers and data centers that are either in a private cloud, or on the premises of a given organization (or the organization’s IT partner). Unlike public cloud solutions, on-premise systems require one large expenditure up front, including a hefty perpetual license fee. From there, the purchasing organization oversees operation and maintenance of the hardware and software. This route can be prohibitively costly, not to mention time-consuming for employees. However, these potential drawbacks will be less of an issue if an organization is appropriately staffed, and only has one main location. Plus, certain organizations may be prohibited from using cloud or Hybrid options due to particular, industry-specific regulations, making on-premise ERP systems the only option.
Nowadays, many high-end ERP providers are offering Hybrid or entirely cloud-based solutions, also known as software-as-a-service (SaaS). Microsoft Dynamics 365 is an example of a cloud-based business applications platform. The perks of cloud solutions are many: financially, they’re more accessible for smaller businesses that may not have the deep pockets of established industry titans. Instead of one larger, up-front cost, most cloud solutions are considered long-term operating expenditures. Cloud systems are also simpler to deploy, upgrades can be integrated seamlessly, and the burden is on the software provider to maintain the system and troubleshoot as needed.
A hybrid ERP system combines qualities from both the cloud and on-premise solutions. Generally speaking, an organization will oversee critical business applications or applications that are customized to their parameters from within their own data centers or private cloud. This option is generally considered a compromise when it comes to budgeting, manpower, and time spent on implementation. An on-premise system may also be adapted over time into a hybrid system, with the inclusion of web-based services or mobile apps.
Flexible Microsoft-Salesforce Data Integration Solutions for Any Type of ERP
Regardless of whether an enterprise utilizes an on-premise, hybrid, or cloud-based system, any ERP setup is incomplete without a fully integrated CRM such as Salesforce managing “outward-facing” business operations. CRM-ERP integration gives managerial staff a 360 view of customer profiles and analytics, and ensures all employees are working with the most up-to-date and relevant information possible. With your systems fully integrated, there’s no risk of harmful siloing between departments and all the data access issues that implies.
With data integration services like the Rapidi Replicator and Rapidi Platform, Salesforce integration is possible with almost any existing ERP system, from Dynamics NAV and SAP to Netsuite and Syspro, to name a few. The RapidiConnector—Rapidi’s cutting edge connection technology—compresses and encrypts data transferred between cloud solutions and any on-premise systems.
For those implementing Dynamics AX or other cloud-based systems, RapidiOnline is an entirely cloud-based integration solution with a history of success in joining Microsoft Dynamics and Salesforce into a synergistic team. However, regardless of whether your Microsoft Dynamics system is on-premise, hybrid, or cloud-based, Rapidi has you covered. Its robust yet flexible technology supports fast implementation and deep data transfer, can be used “out of the box” or customized to fit almost any organization’s needs. The world of ERPs, CRMs, and data integration doesn’t have to be a mystery, a headache, or a chore. With integration experts such as Rapidi at your side, rest assured that the security, functionality, and potential of your business are in good hands.
