With the announcement of new features that provide improved integration between desktop applications and those which drive the back office, Microsoft Dynamics GP makes a strong case for itself as the midrange ERP solution of choice for South African business. That's according to long-time Microsoft Dynamics GP solution provider Computer Initiatives, which says it is confident that the solution will remain a firm favourite for efficiently run local companies.
According to Ronald Laxton, Computer Initiatives managing director, Microsoft Dynamics GP has proven itself over an extended period as a stable and functionally rich system ideally suited to the requirements of a number of industries.
“It is because of this success in the past and belief in future prospects that Microsoft continues to invest in the development of Dynamics GP in order to keep the software up to date, relevant and delivering the features required by competitive businesses in the Internet era,” he says.
Specifically, Laxton points to the announcement of Dynamics GP 2010, made in the second quarter of last year. “With that release, integration between commonly used Microsoft desktop applications and the enterprise software which runs the business saw considerable advancement,” he says.
Since most businesses which fall within the target market of Dynamics GP are already extensive users of the Microsoft Office desktop productivity solution, there is a clear synergy in introducing an ERP system which is effectively an extension of the desktop applications. “For example, Dynamics GP integrates workflow and information sharing; distribution of system-generated forms to customers and suppliers can be automated through e-mail as PDF or Word documents, in a simple, familiar process,” he notes.
Meanwhile, SharePoint technology extends access to business-critical information contained within Dynamics GP 2010 to more people across the organisation. “It's a combination of business applications and productivity applications which supports the manner in which people work in their everyday jobs,” Laxton notes.
Further development is apparent this year, with the recent announcement of Microsoft Dynamics GP R2. Laxton says this release enhances business intelligence capabilities, allowing companies to report on and analyse data more easily using familiar tools such as Excel.
Patricia Martins, head of Microsoft Dynamics South Africa, provides an indication of the versatility of the solution: “We have many local customers running on Dynamics GP solutions, across industries such as retail and distribution, financial services, public sector, logistics and professional services. These customers are supported by our channel partners, like Computer Initiatives, which deliver the expertise and track record required by enterprise software clients.”
Continued investment, Martins adds, is geared towards integration, much prized in modern business. “Microsoft's strategy of improved integration between Dynamics GP and other Microsoft products such as Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint and SharePoint is evident. This integration provides for unfettered data exchange between enterprise and desktop applications, and improves the efficiency of staff members.”
As a mature, proven midrange solution, Laxton says a clear roadmap is provided for the installed base in South Africa - while making a compelling case for Dynamics GP as the ERP solution of choice for new clients in the mid-market.
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