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Integrating Power Apps, Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

Integracja Power Apps, Power Bi z Microsoft Dynamics Business Central
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Integracja Power Apps, Power Bi z Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

Today’s companies increasingly realize the crucial role of integrating different technologies into their business processes. One excellent example of synergy is the Power Apps and Power BI combination with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central. In this article, we will take a closer look at this issue, highlighting the benefits of this integration and how each of these technologies can work with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central.

Power Apps, Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

  • Power Apps: is a code-free application development platform that allows business solutions to be quickly and easily customized to meet an organization's specific needs. Combined with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, it enables the creation of custom user interfaces, forms, or reports without high-level programming.
  • Power BI is a business intelligence tool that enables you to visualize data and create advanced reports. By integrating with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, Power BI can take advantage of the data collected in your ERP system, allowing you to quickly and efficiently analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) and business trends.
  • Microsoft Dynamics Business Central: is a comprehensive ERP solution covering the areas of finance, supply chain management, manufacturing, and more. Integration with Power Apps and Power BI is a natural extension of Business Central's functionality, enabling more flexible and advanced system customization.

Benefits of integrating Power Apps, Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

  • Increased efficiency: integrating Power Apps and Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central contributes to increased operational efficiency. With custom applications created using Power Apps, employees can quickly customize the interface to meet their needs, reducing the time it takes to handle business processes.
  • Improved data analysis: Power BI combined with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central enables more advanced data analysis. This allows companies to make more accurate strategic decisions based on sound KPIs and business trend analysis.
  • Customization: integration enables customized solutions without requiring development resources. Power Apps allows for customization of interfaces, while Power BI allows for creating personalized reports, allowing companies to tailor the system to their unique needs better.

Integrating Power Apps with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

Connecting Power Apps with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central enables creating enterprise-specific applications. As a result, even without developed programming knowledge, the user interface can be customized to specific business processes, enhancing the user experience.

Integration of Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central

Integrating Power BI programs with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central allows you to use advanced data analysis features. Visualization of key performance indicators and business trends enables rapid decision-making based on sound analysis of data collected in the ERP system.

Połączenie technologi Microsoft - jakie płyną korzyści

Combining all three technologies - what are the benefits

  • Holistic data management: the combination of Power Apps, Power BI, and Microsoft Dynamics Business Central provides holistic data management for the company. The data available in the ERP system can be effectively used for customizing user interfaces and business analytics.
  • Adapt quickly to change: with flexible tools like Power Apps and Power BI, integration with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central enables rapid adaptation to changing market and business needs. Enterprises can dynamically adapt their solutions to new challenges.

Summary

Integrating Power Apps, Power BI with Microsoft Dynamics Business Central provides a powerful tool to support modern enterprises in effectively managing data and business processes. The benefits of this synergy include increased operational efficiency, better data analysis, customized solutions, and rapid adaptation to change. Investing in this integration can bring real benefits, strengthening a company’s position in a competitive market.

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Microsoft 365 Copilot – what can it do?

Microsoft 365 Copilot co potrafi
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Microsoft 365 Copilot co potrafi

Microsoft 365 Copilot is an AI tool that transforms how you work by combining the power of machine learning with Office applications. It makes it easier to automate tasks and offers intelligent assistance with daily tasks, increasing productivity and efficiency. Enabling Copilot in Office 365 is simple and usually available in the application settings. It allows you to analyze data, create documents, and manage communications faster. Copilot is the future of office work, enabling more accessible and intuitive use of tools, from analyzing data to creating presentations.

What can Microsoft 365 Copilot do?

Copilot uses advanced AI algorithms to understand work context and helps automate tasks. It can suggest content for Word documents, analyze complex data summaries in Excel, and help design PowerPoint presentations.

How do I enable Microsoft Office 365 Copilot?

Enabling Copilot in Office 365 is usually done through application settings, where users can activate the AI feature. It can also be part of a more extensive Office update automatically available to subscribers.

  1. Log in to your Microsoft 365 account.
  2. Go to the Office 365 administration center.
  3. Depending on the feature you want to enable, look for the appropriate section, such as “Settings” or “Services & Add-ons.”
  4. Find the feature you want to enable – this may require browsing through available apps and add-ons.
  5. Enable the feature according to the instructions provided.

If “Microsoft Office 365 Copilot” is an add-on or application available as part of Office 365, you may need to download and install the corresponding extension or application. In this case, the installation process may also involve visiting the Microsoft Store or another Microsoft resource from where you can download the necessary software.

How it affects our work - an overview of the facilities.

Copilot is changing the face of office work, minimizing the need to perform routine tasks and allowing people to focus on more creative aspects of their work. This will enable employees to be more productive and efficient.

Podsumowanie możliwości i narzędzi dostarczanych przez software Copilot

Summary of the capabilities and tools provided by Copilot software

Copilot provides various tools to make work easier, such as automatic summaries, report generation, and visual material design. It is a comprehensive support that adapts to the user’s needs.

How do you effectively use Microsoft Office Copilot in your daily work?

To use Copilot effectively, you need to have a good understanding of its functions and capabilities. It is worth starting with simple tasks and gradually implementing more complex processes so that the tool becomes an integral part of office work. See a variety of daily work applications that make tasks more accessible and more automated:

  • Automatic Content Generation: Word users can ask Copilot to help them write documents, from creating basic drafts to automatically generating content proposals based on previously entered data.
  • Analysis and Inference from Data: in Excel, Copilot can analyze complex data sets, draw conclusions, and create advanced reports without the user needing manual analysis.
  • Presentation Optimization: Copilot can help design professional-looking PowerPoint presentations by selecting templates and layouts that best fit the user's content.
  • Communication Support: in Outlook, Copilot can suggest email replies, help manage your calendar, and prioritize important messages.
  • Note Organization: in OneNote, Copilot can help organize notes and automatically tag and search for relevant information.
  • Business Trend Analysis: in Power BI, Copilot can help identify business patterns and trends, making it easier to make data-driven decisions.
  • Task Automation: in Power Automate, Copilot can facilitate the creation of workflows that automate repetitive tasks, saving the user time
  • Remote Collaboration: Copilot can support team collaboration in Teams by offering guidance and ideas during remote meetings and brainstorming sessions.
  • Support for Developers: In Visual Studio, Copilot can suggest code snippets or programming solutions support the software development process.
  • Integration with the Cloud: in Azure, Copilot can help manage and optimize cloud resources, suggesting configuration changes or cost optimizations.
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What is Microsoft Copilot?

Czym jest Microsoft Copilot
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Czym jest Microsoft Copilot

In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Microsoft Copilot represents a revolution in human-computer interaction. It is an advanced artificial intelligence (AI)-based platform for streamlining many aspects of office work and communication, offered as part of Microsoft 365. Thanks to innovative algorithms, Microsoft Copilot allows complex tasks to be performed with simple voice commands or typing, significantly increasing user efficiency and productivity.

Microsoft AI - services and products

Azure AI: Microsoft’s Azure cloud platform offers AI services that allow companies to build and deploy their artificial intelligence models. This includes machine learning tools, natural language processing services, conversational bots, and more.

Microsoft 365: AI is integrated into Microsoft 365 applications such as Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams to support users with automated suggestions, data analysis, and improved collaboration.

Cognitive Services: is a collection of AI APIs that enable developers to add computer vision, speech recognition, language processing, and knowledge understanding capabilities to their applications.

Microsoft Power Platform: this platform, which includes Power BI, Power Apps, and Power Automate, uses AI to enable users to create intelligent applications without writing code and automate tasks and workflows.

Project Bonsai: is Microsoft’s AI platform for building autonomous systems. It enables specialists and engineers to create AI models to improve industrial processes and manufacturing.

Dynamics 365: AI is also used in Dynamics 365, Microsoft’s suite of business applications, to optimize business operations, predict sales trends, and offer better customer support through data insights.

Xbox and gaming: AI personalizes player experiences, optimizes game difficulty levels, and creates more realistic environments.

Windows Copilot refers to productivity tools that are part of the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, such as Microsoft Teams, which enable real-time user collaboration and communication

How does Microsoft 365 Copilot work?

Microsoft 365 Copilot uses AI technologies to analyze data, text, images, and graphics to provide users with immediate answers and assistance with ongoing tasks. It acts like a personal assistant that answers questions and suggests optimal actions. Integration with Microsoft 365 applications, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, allows you to generate documents instantly, create advanced data analysis, and even automatically design presentations according to guidelines.

Benefits of using Microsoft Copilot

There are several benefits to using Microsoft Copilot. First of all, it saves time by automating routine tasks. Users can focus on the creative aspect of their work while repetitive processes are automated. Copilot also enables quick access to information by searching and analyzing data across the Microsoft 365 ecosystem, dramatically speeding up decision-making processes. In addition, thanks to natural language, the interface is intuitive and accessible even to the less tech-savvy.

Ułatwienia w pracy dzięki technologii AI

Making work easier with AI technology

Artificial intelligence (AI) is becoming vital in solving everyday business problems. Microsoft Copilot is an example of an AI application that can help with workflow, project management, education, and training. Features such as automatically summarizing long documents, analyzing trends in data, or detecting and correcting errors are becoming invaluable aids in everyday work.

Collaboration and information sharing with Windows Copilot

Windows Copilot is the next step in integrating artificial intelligence into the operating system. It facilitates user collaboration by sharing documents, presentations, and other materials in real time. It also enables remote assistance using voice or text commands, particularly useful for geographically dispersed teamwork. This functionality is changing the way we work, learn, and interact, opening new opportunities for business and education at a distance.

Microsoft Copilot how to enable

Microsoft Copilot is a feature within some Microsoft 365 applications and may be available in various services such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and others. To enable and use Copilot, you usually need to follow the steps below:

  • Update Microsoft 365: make sure you have the latest version of Microsoft 365 installed on your device. The Copilot may require the newest update to function.
  • Check availability: check if Copilot is available on your version of Microsoft 365, as it may be limited to specific subscription plans or still in testing.
  • Enable AI: if the feature is available, you can enable it in the settings of the Microsoft 365 application it affects, such as in Word or Excel. This is often found in the "Options" or "Tools" menu.
  • Logging in: ensure you are logged into your Microsoft account, which has access to the Copilot feature.
  • Using the function: once you have enabled Copilot, you can usually use it by typing commands or using the user interface to interact with the AI.

Suppose Copilot is a new feature, or you are a beta program participant. In that case, access to it is limited and requires a unique invitation or enablement by your organization’s IT administrator.

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Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central licensing model

Modele licencjonowania Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
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Modele licencjonowania Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

The Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central licensing model is mainly based on a flexible monthly subscription-oriented approach that provides companies with comprehensive ERP solutions under personalized plans. This option allows you to scale your resources based on your company’s needs while ensuring cost control.

A perpetual usage plan is also available based on the right to use the system license in perpetuity. The fee for this solution is divided into two components- a license depending on the number of modules and users and an annual subscription called Enhancement Plan.

The third solution is the on-cloud model (Software as a Service), in which all the basic infrastructure, middleware, and application data reside in a Microsoft Azure database. This option allows customers to get up and running quickly with minimal upfront cost.

License types and entitlements in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Licensing within Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central includes a variety of entitlement types to suit the diverse needs of organizations. The primary license categories are Full Users and Team Members. At no additional charge within the license, Microsoft also grants one administrative user and one user for so-called external accounting.

We can divide the Full User license into two additional categories, but note that they cannot be combined within the same environment. These licenses are Essentials- providing access to financial, supply chain, project management, or sales and marketing functionalities. Premium- This allows you to perform all the functions of the Essentials category, further extending the capabilities to include service and production management.

A Team Members license user is a partial Dynamics 365 Business Central user. Its license privileges allow it to read any data in the system while significantly limiting its writing capabilities.

The Device license associated with a device is also worth mentioning. It allows you to assign a license to a specific device instead of a user. This is particularly useful when several employees use the same device (a terminal) in manufacturing plants or warehouses.

Essential license

A primary type of license designed for companies requiring access to most areas.

It allows access to such areas as Reports, Finance, CRM, Sales, Warehouse, etc. Users with this license can create and manage sales and purchase documents, track financial transactions, plan budgets, and generate reports.

It is more affordable than the Premium license, making it a fitting option for companies not deeply involved in intensive business operations but still needs access to the system’s vital information.

Premium License

A license with access to the full range of features included in the Essentials license is extended with additional capabilities, allowing you to take full advantage of the ERP system’s potential.

In addition to managing finances, sales, and purchases, it allows access to service management or production functions, such as planning and process tracking.

The Premium license is designed for companies that want to use the full potential of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Team Members license

It is designed for users who only require access to essential information and reports.

It allows viewing data, approving tasks, or generating reports but does not provide full editing capabilities or create transactions.

It provides a cost-effective option for employees who are not involved in intensive business operations but require access to the information contained in Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Integracja z Microsoft Outlook

Integration with Microsoft Outlook

It is possible to easily combine access to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central with a Microsoft Outlook account through an add-in that allows you to manage business interactions with customers and suppliers directly in Microsoft Outlook. The Business Central add-on for Outlook will enable you to view financial data related to customers and suppliers and create and send financial documents such as quotes or invoices.

Summary

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central offers a variety of licensing options, enabling companies to customize their ERP system and support business growth. The licensing model is based on a flexible subscription, perpetual licensing, or an on-cloud solution. With Essential, Premium, and Team Member categories, enterprises can customize licenses to meet their business’s different needs and responsibilities. In addition, per-device and third-party accountant licenses enable simplified system use internally.

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What is Microsoft Power Apps?

Power Apps czym jest
Spis treści

How does the Power Apps platform work?

Description of the key components of Microsoft Power Apps

Usage of Microsoft Power Apps in business

Advantages and disadvantages of Microsoft Power Apps

Power Apps czym jest

Microsoft Power Apps is a tool created by Microsoft that allows you to create customized business applications. With this platform, even people without advanced programming experience can quickly and easily develop applications, tailored to the unique needs of their organization.

It’s worth noting that Microsoft Power Apps provides a simple interface that allows you to use ready-made templates, while offering you the ability to customize the features and appearance of your applications. As a result, efficiency depends mainly on the user’s creativity and needs.

The platform also offers integrations with other Microsoft tools and services, making it a frequent choice for companies using the manufacturer’s solutions.

How does the Power Apps platform work?

Learn about some key elements that describe how this platform works:

  • ready-made templates that users can use as a starting point to create their applications. These templates cover different types of applications, such as project management, sales tracking or data collection.
  • customization of functions and design: through a simple drag-and-drop system, you can add data fields, create interactive forms or define the logic behind the application.
  • Formulas allow you to define various functions and behaviors. They are easy to understand even for people without programming experience.
  • Integrations with other Microsoft tools and services, such as SharePoint or Azure. This enables the use of different data sources and increases flexibility in creating personalized applications.
  • working in the cloud: applications are stored in the cloud, allowing easy access to them from different devices. This also makes it easier to manage and update applications.
  • speed of deployment: with a simple interface and ready-to-use components, Power Apps enables quick deployment of applications without a lengthy development process.

Description of the key components of Microsoft Power Apps

  • Applications: The applications in Power Apps are interactive tools that allow you to collect, analyze and present data in a way that is tailored to your specific needs. They can range from simple information gathering tools to more sophisticated business applications that support complex processes.
  • Cards: Cards in Power Apps are forms that collect data within the application. Users can customize cards by adding data fields, images, buttons or other interface elements to create personalized forms.
  • Data sets: is where data used by Power Apps is stored. This can be data from a variety of sources, such as databases, spreadsheets or cloud services that store information.
  • Connections: Power Apps allows integration with different data sources and platforms. This means that apps can use data stored in other Microsoft applications, such as SharePoint or Dynamics 365, as well as external sources such as cloud data or web services.
  • Formulas: allow you to define the logic behind your applications. Formulas are easy to understand even for people without deep programming knowledge, allowing you to quickly define various functions within the application.
  • Speed of implementation: With a simple interface, ready-made templates and flexibility in customization, application development can be quick and efficient. These elements work together to create a complete platform that allows you to create personalized business solutions.
Zastosowanie Microsoft Power Apps w biznesie

Usage of Microsoft Power Apps in business

Microsoft Power Apps is used in various business areas to automate processes, collect data, create interactive reports or customize tools to meet specific enterprise needs. While it has its limitations, especially for advanced developers, it is an effective tool for most users to quickly deploy personalized applications without the need for programming resources.

Power Apps finds application in:

  • process automation: creating applications to make everyday tasks easier
  • data collection: easy gathering of information from various sources
  • creating interactive reports: generating clear business analysis

Advantages and disadvantages of Microsoft Power Apps

Advantages:

  • ease of use
  • speed of application development
  • integrations with Microsoft platforms

Disadvantages:

  • limitations of advanced programming
  • need for access to Microsoft 365 platform
  • license costs can be higher for advanced features.
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What are the types of ERP systems?

Jaki system ERP wybrać
Table of contents
Jaki system ERP wybrać

ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) systems are crucial for effective business management. They allow different business processes and departments to be integrated into one cohesive environment, helping to streamline operations and make better decisions. There are many types of ERP systems, each of which can be tailored to the specific needs and size of the enterprise.

In this article, we will focus mainly on two types of ERP systems from Microsoft: Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Dynamics Business Central.

Microsoft Dynamics 365

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is an advanced ERP system that offers a comprehensive range of tools and features that can be customized for different industries and business needs. This flexible ERP software allows you to manage many aspects of your business, such as sales, customer service, project management, marketing, finance, and more. With online and cloud access, Microsoft Dynamics 365 allows employees to access data from any location and device, making it much easier to manage your business.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Microsoft Dynamics Business Central is an ERP system for small and medium-sized businesses. It is a financial, sales, purchasing, inventory, and production management solution that integrates with other Microsoft applications such as Microsoft 365 – Word, Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Dynamics Business Central provides tools to streamline business operations and helps make data-driven decisions.

What criteria should you consider when choosing an ERP system?

In the context of Microsoft ERP systems, namely Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, several criteria are worth considering when choosing the right solution. Here are the main aspects to pay attention to:

  • the first criterion in selecting an ERP system is its functional scope. ERP software must meet the unique needs of the company. Microsoft ERP systems offer many functions, including sales, marketing, customer service, finance, and operations management,
  • it is essential that the ERP system grows with the business. Both Dynamics 365 and Business Central enable scalable solutions, which means they can be adapted to the changing needs of the organization,
  • the ERP system must be able to connect with other existing systems in the company. In the case of Microsoft Dynamics solutions, they can be easily integrated with other Microsoft products, such as Microsoft 365 or Microsoft Azure,
  • Microsoft Dynamics offers a cloud-based option, which means you can access the system from anywhere, which is especially important in today's remote working environment,
  • Microsoft is known for regular updates and technical support. The ERP system is easy to implement but also provides continuity of service and comes with new features,
  • it is helpful to understand the total cost of implementing and maintaining an ERP system. Microsoft Dynamics 365 and Business Central have different pricing models, so it's essential to choose the model that best fits your business budget,
  • some industries require specialized ERP modules. Microsoft Dynamics offers several industry-specific applications that can make it easier to customize the system to meet specific needs,
  • data security and compliance are essential in an increasingly stringent data protection regulation era. Microsoft products are compliant with the latest regulations.
  • pay attention to reviews of other companies using these systems and check with the vendor to see what references it can provide,
  • finally, a key factor is the availability of training and technical support. Companies should ensure adequate support when implementing and using the system.

What are user opinions on various ERP systems?

User opinions on available ERP systems vary and depend on industry, company size, and individual needs. However, the differences in user opinions on ERP systems are mainly due to respective companies’ unique needs and expectations. Some users may be satisfied with the features and performance of Microsoft Dynamics Business Central, while others may prefer the features offered by the more extensive Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP system.

ERP systems are highly valued for their ability to increase productivity and streamline operations. However, choosing the right ERP system depends on a company’s needs, budget, and growth strategy. Therefore, please carefully review the available options before deciding and consulting with ERP experts.

What are the costs of implementing and maintaining an ERP system?

Implementing and maintaining an ERP system is integral to many companies’ business strategy. However, before deciding to implement such a system, you must familiarize yourself with the implementation costs.

Implementation costs

  • purchasing a license for an ERP system such as Microsoft Dynamics 365 or Business Central is one of the most significant investments. Costs can vary depending on the system and type of license,
  • ERP system implementation requires advanced knowledge and experience. Hiring a consultant or company specializing in implementing ERP systems is essential. Consulting costs include salaries and possible travel expenses,
  • companies often need to customize their ERP systems to meet their unique needs. This may require the development of custom modules and incur additional costs for,
  • employee training.

Maintenance costs

  • regular payment of ERP software license fees. These fees can be monthly or annual, depending on the option chosen,
  • technical support from the ERP software vendor,
  • the ERP system is constantly being developed and updated. Companies should invest in system upgrades and expansions as their business grows,
  • for on-premises systems, companies incur costs related to servers, hardware, and secure IT infrastructure.
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Letting go of documentation – Mistake 7 – ERP D365 implementations

7 basic mistakes part 7/7

7
Letting go of documentation

Regardless of the industry or project, you often hear, “Do you have it on email?”

And no wonder. This is essential in any job where we rely on other people’s decisions, especially when money and the time input of an entire team of specialists.

Inlogica Separator

Usually, the obstacle to writing down the arrangements after business, working, and summary meetings is the need for more time. Structures “by word of mouth” prevail. Mutual trust is essential, but there are aspects where you should act according to the principle of limited faith on the road. It is better to be wise before any harm is done and document all project arrangements.

This way, we will avoid misunderstandings, and the work will go according to the previous record. Each time, we can change the record or update the status or scope of tasks.

We know the unwritten rule that a working system is more important than detailed documentation. However, we prefer not to risk “in-your-face” arrangements.

Let’s strive to define acceptance criteria for the task or at least establish a definition of task completion.

Otherwise, we may get something we no longer need, didn’t order in the first place, or not get what we wanted.

An efficient implementation is characterized by design flexibility. However, it is essential to record a common understanding of the purpose and scope of the performance in the contract or other project document. And the so-called “word-of-mouth” arrangements are better documented as a summary in an email or other established communication tool. This will save time and money as a result.

Inlogica Separator

Hiding behind the lack of time to write a summary email is incomprehensible because, in practice, it often does not take more than a quarter of an hour and costs as much as nothing (although de facto, it does cost – and must be part of the recorded work effort in the project).

Thanks to the documentation, we have the assumptions written down in case of a misunderstanding, error, or simply “screwing things up” during implementation. In case of contentious issues, both on the part of the client and the implementation team, there will be something to refer to. Common sense in such a situation often avoids nerves and rising costs. It is worth having everything “in black and white.”

Top tips

  • Invest time in documenting your assumptions business.
  • Use process maps, graphics, and diagrams where possible.
  • Consider the preparation of documentation for end users - it will be helpful when introducing new employees.
  • Include time and budget for drafting documentation in the work schedule.

This is the last publication. If you want to download them all as a free ebook check out the link.

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Overestimated budget – Mistake 6 – ERP D365 implementations

7 basic mistakes part 6/7

6
Overestimated budget

At this point, it is again worth recalling the framework schedule. Estimating the implementation is one of the primary activities that must be performed before any work begins.

Inlogica Separator

To begin with, you need to verify the need for a particular solution in your company. Do you think it’s necessary? Is there a budget to implement an ERP solution in the organization? This is extremely important for the start of the work and the success of the entire implementation. Budgets and cost estimates have it that they often do not want to “pin down” at the final stage. There are always unforeseen expenses that should be included in the tables. And it’s hardly surprising – that’s why they are unpredictable. Hence the need to set up a budget “on top.”

In our experience, the buffer should be 10 – 20% of the value of the original assumptions.

Therefore, everything must be calculated carefully and then scaled again to the needs of a given company/plant/enterprise.

It is worth asking ourselves a fundamental question: can we afford it, will this investment bring us the expected benefits (not only purely financial ones).

As they say: budget is not made of rubber, and nerves are not made of steel.

Top tips

  • Stick to the plan or consciously make changes - you will avoid uncontrolled budget expansion
  • Park - create a list of all exciting improvement ideas and include them in the framework schedule or move them to the end of the implementation work queue - this way, you can maintain the pace of implementation and come back to them when the most critical work is completed.
  • Read the reports - the contractor should make the information available anytime.
  • Be proactive - ask questions, involve your team in work, and find time for testing - these activities will reduce costs and improve understanding and control of the budget.

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Confidence shaken – Mistake 5 – ERP D365 implementations

7 basic mistakes part 5/7

5
Confidence shaken

Any cooperation is based on relationships. Often of various types: business, partnership, courteous, social, and collegial. It tends to be, that one of the evoked is involved, and it happens that all of them are together.

Either way, the basis of fruitful cooperation on the customer-implementation company line is “good relations.” “Chemistry” is expected, ideally when “something sparks” between the Customer and the contractor. Because when there is good cooperation, the best results are worked out. This is a truism – a fact. But it still works.

Good relations are built not only on trust but also on mutual respect.

Inlogica Separator

Respect for one’s and others’ work makes it possible to avoid misunderstanding. And if this is accompanied by an elementary knowledge of the scope of work of a programmer, then the job “goes like butter.” Then we will not hear comments like: “adding one column to a table, after all, cannot take a good programmer of more than 15 minutes” etc., etc.

Inlogica Separator

Building friendly relationships is helped by proven and good practices in communication:

  • it is always worth speaking clearly and directly
  • it’s not worth “wrap out”; there is no point in diluting the message
  • it is best to appreciate the whole team’s work to ensure the message is complete
  • it is necessary to keep the given promises
  • and, above all, respect each other’s time spent and the job done

Two parties must trust each other. Maybe not boundless, but at a decent level.

Both the client and the implementation contractor know their job, do it professionally, so it is enough to let the specialists quietly work, and sometimes try not to disturb them. Each stage they finish, they will certainly discuss with the client, i.e., with the people appointed to do so.

Inlogica Separator

The partnership allows for free and clear communication of the status of the work. Lack of agreement and understanding affect the time implementation deteriorates the friendly atmosphere cooperation.

Inlogica Separator

It is impossible to implement a program – especially with such a complex system – anything in 15 minutes. The work consists of various activities. In addition to pure programming there are hours of testing, consulting, and documentation…

People and relationships/interactions matter more in the work of implementation teams/companies than processes and systems. This is because people from both business sides implement strategies and techniques.

If there is no agreement between them, problems can arise during implementation.

Cooperation always starts with mutual understanding and trust.

Top tips

  • Talk and listen. That's all it takes.

    We know that your company is probably not in the business of implementing IT systems - which is why you have started or are planning to work with implementation professionals. You can use their experience, tips, and recommendations. They, too, want the implementation to be successful and the path to it to be as safe and easy as possible.

    Be bold and ask questions. It would be best if you concluded that you understand each other's expectations and business goals of the cooperation. Every challenge can be discussed frankly so that lessons learned from this conversation can improve collaboration.

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Arbitrary decision making – Mistake 4 – ERP D365 implementations

7 basic mistakes part 4/7

4
Arbitary decision making

The echo of this “error” has already appeared in the points above. And as in the earlier descriptions, it is worth recalling what is at the heart of the implementation, that is a framework schedule.

Inlogica Separator

When we plan the functionalities, we want to implement, we need to define them together with representatives of all departments having contacting and working with the tool in question.

Ideally, this “brainstorming” should involve team/department managers participate. However, before this happens, managers should know the potential expectations and possible problems “their people.”

Before they take part in the brainstorming, it would be good for them to know how they can improve the work in their teams and what they should obtain at the end.

Such an “internal communication path” is critical and essential for another reason. The idea is that everyone on the team has the same state of knowledge about the implementation.

The team leader communicates to the others the key findings. So that there is no uncomfortable situation of someone making an arbitrary decision that no one else knows about. Such an action may result in complications in implementation, additional unnecessary costs, and sometimes nervous movements or even unpleasant consequences.

The internal circulation of information helps keep the course of the performance according to the established schedule without unforeseen deviations.

Top tips

  • Determine together with the contractor the managers project or decision-making committee composition.
  • Establish at the schedule level the priorities and the order in which individual work is to be completed.
  • Empower your team - give your team members the authority to make decisions about the final shape and operation of of individual functionalities affecting on their daily work.
  • Don't allow poll voting - agree with the contractor on how and who is authorized to make the final decisions.

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