Transforming AEC:
Technology Operations
using Dynamics 365
Introduction
The client is an Arkansas based leading technology provider in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction (AEC) sector, specializes in providing innovative solutions for project management, design, and engineering. With a growing portfolio and increasing customer base, the client needed to upgrade their on-premises Microsoft Dynamics 2016 to a more scalable and efficient solution.
The Challenge
Scalability issues
The existing on-premises infrastructure was struggling to keep up with the company's growth, causing delays and inefficiencies. Client often needed to scale up resources for new large-scale projects, which were slow and costly with on-premises systems.
Maintenance and Support
Regular software updates and security patches were labor-intensive and disrupted daily operations. Managing and maintaining the on-premises system was becoming increasingly costly and time-consuming.
Data Accessibility
Employees and stakeholders required better access to real-time data for decision-making, which the on-premises system could not effectively support. For instance, field engineers and project managers often work on-site and need real-time access to project data, which is cumbersome with an on-prem setup.
Integration Needs
The existing system had limited integration capabilities with other modern tools and platforms used by the client. For example, integrating modern tools like DocuSign or BIM software might require custom development and significant IT resources.
Cost Management
Unpredictable costs related to server failures, hardware replacements, and energy consumption were straining budgets.
User Experience
The user interface of Dynamics 2016 was outdated, leading to lower adoption rates among employees.
An outline of challenges we faced
Data Migration Comlexity
Ensuring the accurate and complete migration of large volumes of data from the on-premises Microsoft Dynamics 2016 system to the cloud-based Dynamics 365, while maintaining data integrity and minimizing downtime.
Customizations and Legacy Integrations
Handling extensive customizations and integrations that the client had implemented in their Dynamics 2016 system, which needed to be replicated or re-engineered in Dynamics 365.
Performance Optimization
Ensuring that the new Dynamics 365 system was optimized for performance to meet the client’s operational needs, particularly given the scalability requirements.
System Downtime and Business Continuity
Managing the transition with minimal disruption to the client’s ongoing operations and ensuring business continuity throughout the upgrade process.
Faster Go Live
A Go live timeline of 4 months.
Our Solution
Nalashaa embarked on a journey to upgrade client’s existing dynamics instance to D365. Our tailored approach included integrating Power Automate with D365, thus automating workflows, allowing integration with other Microsoft applications, triggering Realtime alerts resulting in enhanced collaboration and cost efficiency. By leveraging our IT services, the client successfully upgraded their CRM capabilities, positioning themselves for continued success in the competitive AEC technology market.
Key Features and Benefits
Workflow Automation
Power Automate enabled the creation of automated workflows that streamlined repetitive tasks. For example, automatically updating records in D365 when a new customer inquiry was received, reduced manual data entry. Or Notifying project managers via MS Outlook when a new project was assigned or when key project milestones were reached.
Customizable Workflows
Power Automate enabled the creation of automated workflows that streamlined repetitive tasks. For example, automatically updating records in D365 when a new customer inquiry was received, reduced manual data entry. Or Notifying project managers via MS Outlook when a new project was assigned or when key project milestones were reached.
Integration with Multiple Applications
Seamless integration between D365 and other Microsoft and third-party applications. For instance, integrating D365 with DocuSign for document approval replaced lengthy manual signing processes, e-signatures made the agreement process faster. Similarly, MS Outlook for automated email notifications helped with information sharing in Realtime.
Business Growth
The upgraded system supported the client's business growth by providing a robust platform for managing customer relationships, sales, and projects effectively. For instance, automating follow-up reminders for sales leads, enabling sales teams to concentrate on closing deals rather than managing reminders.
Improved Scalability
Dynamics 365's cloud-based architecture provided the client with the scalability needed to support their growth without significant infrastructure investments. Automating the handling of customer service tickets in D365 as the customer base grows, ensures timely responses and resolutions.
Cost Efficiency
Reduced the total cost of ownership by eliminating the need for on-premises hardware and reducing maintenance overheads.
Enhanced Data Accessibility
Power Automate can be integrated with Power BI to provide advanced analytics and insights into automated workflows and business processes. Generating reports on workflow efficiency, identifying bottlenecks, and making data-driven decisions to improve operations.
User Adoption
The modern and intuitive interface of Dynamics 365 led to higher user adoption rates, improving overall productivity.
Looking for Dynamics 365 Services?
We have plans which will meet your needs, and if not we can tweak them around a bit too!