This blog was originally written in 2018 and updated in 2024. Interestingly enough, because Dynamics 365 has remained consistent and only gotten better, many of the reasons are still valid today. Microsoft offered a superior product then, and it continues to be a superior product now. This blog continues to be one of our most popular posts.

10 Reasons to Choose Microsoft Dynamics 365 Over Salesforce

Choosing the right Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system is a critical decision for any business. While both Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Salesforce are leaders in the CRM market, Dynamics 365 offers several distinct advantages. Here are ten compelling reasons to choose Dynamics 365 over Salesforce in 2024.

Reason #1:  Seamless Integration with the Microsoft applications you already use

One of the standout features of Microsoft Dynamics 365 is its seamless integration with other Microsoft applications including Teams, Outlook, Excel, and Word. In addition, Dynamics 365 natively integrates with ERP tools including Business Central. This integration enables businesses to create a unified and efficient workflow, leveraging the full power of the Microsoft ecosystem. Salesforce can never replicate the deep integration of the Microsoft family of applications.

Reason #2: Cost-Effective Pricing and Flexible Licensing

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is known for its competitive pricing and flexible licensing options, making it a cost-effective choice for businesses of all sizes. Salesforce has a reputation for hidden costs and jacking up the costs at renewal time. Dynamics 365, in an effort to be transparent, publishes its pricing and provides scalable plans that can be tailored to your specific needs. This cost-effectiveness allows businesses to allocate resources more efficiently without compromising on functionality.

Reason #3. Extensive Customization and Flexibility

Customization is key to any CRM solution, and Dynamics 365 excels in this area. Through the Power Platform, which includes Power BI, Power Apps, and Power Automate, Dynamics 365 offers extensive low-code customization options. This flexibility allows businesses to tailor the CRM to their specific processes and requirements, ensuring a perfect fit for their operations.

Dynamics 365 provides a wide range of customization options. With so many choices, it can be challenging to decide which customization is right for your business. While many adjustments can be made independently, enlisting the expertise of a Dynamics 365 consultant like enCloud9 can help determine your specific needs and ensure optimal solutions for your business. We will ensure a successful customization project. One of the key strengths of Microsoft Dynamics 365 is its use of universal programming languages like JavaScript, .NET, and HTML, allowing businesses to easily customize and extend the solution as their needs evolve.  In contrast, Salesforce relies on its proprietary language, Apex, which limits customization and flexibility, potentially slowing down business processes.

Reason #4. Unified CRM and ERP Capabilities

Unlike Salesforce, which is limited to CRM functions, Dynamics 365 both CRM and ERP capabilities, providing a more complete and powerful business solution. This integration reduces the need for multiple systems, streamlining operations and improving data accuracy.

With Dynamics 365, businesses can manage everything from Sales and Customer Service to Finance and Operations within one cohesive system, a major advantage that streamlines processes and improves efficiency.

Reason #5. Familiar User Interface

Dynamics 365’s interface shares the same overall design style as other Microsoft apps, which makes it familiar to existing Microsoft users. This can make new users feel comfortable and boost system adoption. On the other hand, Salesforce’s interface, Lightning Experience, may not be as familiar to users as Dynamics 365’s.

The consistent look and feel across Microsoft applications make Dynamics 365 a user-friendly choice.

Reason #6. Advanced Data Security and Compliance

Dynamics 365 is a better choice for businesses due to Microsoft’s stringent security protocols and compliance standards. While Salesforce offers strong security features, its fully cloud-based model may raise concerns for businesses with strict data residency requirements, making Dynamics 365 a more secure and flexible option

Reason #7. Copilot and Advanced Analytics

Dynamics 365 includes Copilot and advanced analytics capabilities that empower businesses to make data-driven decisions. Features like predictive analytics and customer insights help identify trends and opportunities, enabling proactive decision-making. With Dynamics 365, businesses can leverage cutting-edge technology to gain a competitive edge. Salesforce’s native AI tools, called Einstein, are not included in their base products. Einstein starts at $900 per user for basic features.

Dynamics 365 is a better choice for businesses seeking a broader range of AI-enabled tools, as Microsoft Dynamics 365 AI offers a more comprehensive solution to enhance various business operations. While Salesforce’s Einstein excels in improving conversational chatbots and integrating with CRM processes, Dynamics 365 provides a more versatile and all-encompassing AI platform.

Reason #8. Industry-Specific Solutions

Dynamics 365 offers more industry-specific solutions than Salesforce. Microsoft has developed a wide range of industry-specific applications within Dynamics 365, targeting sectors such as manufacturing, retail, healthcare, financial services, government, and more. These industry solutions come with pre-built templates, workflows, and features tailored to specific business needs.

Salesforce, while also offering industry solutions, generally requires more customization to match the depth of industry-specific functionality that Dynamics 365 provides out of the box. This makes Dynamics 365 a stronger choice for businesses seeking tailored solutions for their industry.

Reason #9. Scalability to Grow with Your Business

As your business grows, your CRM needs will evolve. Dynamics 365 is a better choice in terms of scalability and growth due to its integration of CRM and ERP, modular design, and seamless integration with Microsoft tools. Unlike Salesforce, which often requires additional systems and can lead to higher long-term costs. Dynamics 365 grows with your business, offering a more flexible and cost-effective solution for long-term success.

Reason #10. Extensive Support and Community

Dynamics 365 is a better choice than Salesforce due to its extensive support and active community. Microsoft provides comprehensive resources, including detailed documentation, training programs, and a global partner network for expert guidance. The large Dynamics 365 user community offers forums, knowledge sharing, and collaboration on best practices. In comparison, Salesforce does have support but does not have the depth and accessibility of Microsoft’s resources. For this reason, Dynamics 365 is a more reliable and well-supported option for businesses.

Microsoft’s extensive network ensures that you can maximize the value of your CRM investment.

Conclusion

Choosing the right CRM system is a strategic decision that can significantly impact your business. While both Dynamics 365 and Salesforce offer powerful solutions, Dynamics 365 provides several unique advantages, including seamless integration with Microsoft products, cost-effective pricing, extensive customization, and a unified platform for CRM and ERP. Additionally, its familiar user interface, advanced security, built-in AI, industry-specific solutions, scalability, and robust support network make it a compelling choice for businesses looking to optimize their operations and drive growth. Learn more about Dynamic 365 benefits here.

When considering your options, it’s essential to evaluate your specific needs and how each CRM solution aligns with your business goals. Deciding to switch from Salesforce to Dynamics 365 should be based on a careful look at your organization’s needs, current setup, and future goals. We suggest a detailed analysis, considering factors like functionality, integration, user experience, and how it will affect your business processes. Contact enCloud9 today to explore your options and find the best solution for your business. Over the years we’ve migrated many clients from Salesforce to Dynamics 365.

Discover the latest Dynamics 365 insights by visiting enCloud9’s blog and subscribing to our YouTube channel today!