Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

1. 1. a. How do I know it’s time to implement new software for business management? Key Factors:
   • • Your business is growing, and you need a solution that consolidates your data and a platform that unifies core business operations and functions.
     • You use separate software programs for managing different business processes such as sales, manufacturing, warehouse, finances, etc. You are missing an overview of your company’s activities.
     • Your company operates in several countries, and you want to receive information on the business processes in the same system to analyze its performance and make business decisions based on that.

1. What is the business software implementation process?

It includes several steps:

• Identification of the scope and the additional functionality provided.
• Analysis and design of business processes – create process architecture that will be part of the solution.
  • Development and testing – customization of the system regarding the client’s needs, integration with external systems, bug fixes.
  • Preparing for implementation and training – creating a detailed guide for operating, data migration, etc.
  • Support during go-live – helping users adapt to the system and start to use it seamlessly.
  • Continuous maintenance – making additional developments and fixing bugs that occurred after the users begin to work with the system.

2. Is it possible to integrate with another software?

All Microsoft business solutions have an open application programming interface (API) and can be integrated with other software solutions, whether on-premise or cloud-based. Most cases are subject to further customization by business software implementation experts.
The Dynamics 365 apps work perfectly together. They can be arranged and combined in different ways.

3. Can you migrate our old or historical data?

That is standardly agreed upon with the software provider during the pre-selling stage. Technically it is doable, but each case is different – you have to consult with your vendor.

4. What should I consider when signing the contract?

In most cases, not identified functionality requests in the requirement stage will be subject to customization fees. Therefore, the user and the solution provider need to prepare a detailed list of requirements during the contract signing.

1. What is an ERP system?

The ERP system is an integrated software solution that supports the business by automating, standardizing, and optimizing key business processes such as production, finance, accounting, delivery, sales, service, marketing, etc. Through the platform, you manage all business documentation, improve the work efficiency of your employees, and enhance the quality of your services.

2. What does our organization need to prepare when we implement ERP?

The first step would be a concrete business process. Your company’s organizational chart should be well-defined with the different roles of each function and the process documentation. You will figure out exactly which apps your company needs based on that.

Afterward, you will need to establish a steering committee to manage the project. It can be internal, but that’s not mandatory, as their role will be to connect the management, end-users, and solutions provider.

The steering committee will also oversee customer listing, SKU, vendor listing, reports, etc. Finally, the team will also handle the test-to-production milestone.

3. What is the timeframe for implementing an ERP?

It depends on the modules (apps) being implemented. For example, time spent implementing an accounting module may be around one month, based on the assumption that the company knows what to expect and has data available right away. However, it’s important to have realistic expectations – sometimes it may take more than a year, even more, if the company has growing requirements, incomplete, incorrect data, or it is going through management changes. Each implementation requires strong collaboration between the client and the solution provider.

4. How do I consolidate financial data and operations of several companies?

A suitable ERP system can consolidate the financial data of several companies. Microsoft’s solution for small and medium enterprises is Dynamics 365 Business Central, while for large companies and holding – МS Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. The second now exists in the form of apps that could be combined to best suit your company’s needs.

5. Is it possible to implement an ERP app without accounting because we already have an accounting structure?

Yes, although one of the core ERP functionalities is effective financial management. The integration of the financial operations into an ERP system will contribute to the faster and easier accomplishment of processes in many locations, currencies, legal entities, and companies. Additionally, it will support the accounting activities control and provide comprehensive information on the financial results.

1. How do CRM apps support the business?

The CRM apps are a powerful tool that improves the performance of 3 core business activities:

• Sales – helps optimize the management of the generated potential customers and the communication among the employees.
• Marketing – tracks all marketing activities and their performance, based on different components.
• Service – ensures a high service level by helping employees respond to each question quickly and correctly.

2. What does the Business Intelligence app do?

Business Intelligence (BI) is a specialized software instrument that ensures the transformation of unstructured data into detailed insights. BI works through a large volume of information to assist in the discovery, identification, and usage of each new business opportunity. The application allows the creation of a whole business strategy that guarantees immense advantage over competitors and long-term market sustainability.

3. Can I use an ЕRP system on a mobile device?

The system has an app for mobile devices, but it only works online. For more comfort and offline use, the Dynamics Mobile platform gives you mobile access and an opportunity to work with data in the ERP solutions Microsoft Dynamics anywhere, anytime. It also allows all mobile vendors (Ex Van), warehouse employees, and others to work faster and more effectively, thus, ensuring the best possible customer service.

4. Can you offer standard integrations of an ERP system with an online store?

Yes, thanks to the Unified Integration Framework for nopCommerce created by our team. If Dynamics 365 Business Central has already been implemented in your company or you plan implementation, you can increase your sales even more. After integration, your online store works as a natural continuation of your Microsoft Dynamics system.

1. What are the Microsoft Dynamics 365 apps?

The Microsoft Dynamics 365 apps are part of a modern cloud-based software solution and consist of business applications for sales, finance, operations, service, human resources, project management, etc.

2. What are the main advantages of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 platform over other business management solutions?

The state-of-the-art apps allow companies to choose only suitable modules without the need to buy the whole system. As part of Microsoft’s family of products, they are compliant with Office 365 (Word, Excel, Outlook, etc.), Power BI, Flow, etc.

Microsoft continually optimizes and develops the functionality of its products to maximize support for the users of the systems. Microsoft Dynamics 365 customers can add new apps without disturbing their work or requiring custom developments to integrate into the overall solution.

3. How much does Microsoft Dynamics 365 cost and how is it implemented?

It depends on the number, type, and combination of apps used by the company. You can find out more about the current licensing in our article here.

1. Why should I choose Intelligent Systems?

Intelligent Systems has gained rich experience in implementing software solutions in organizations in more than 55 countries. For 18 years, we helped leading companies from different industries optimize their operations and increase their efficiency through a unified system. The Microsoft Dynamics ERP and CRM apps can be used by any organization. The applications can be easily modified to fit your company’s needs.

Intelligent Systems is a leading partner of Microsoft for Microsoft Dynamics in Central and Eastern Europe with many awards, including Inner Circle, Reseller of the Year for CEE, and President`s Club for Microsoft Dynamics.

2. Are there solutions for specific industries?

Of course! Intelligent Systems offers solutions suitable for a great number of industries, including retail, wholesale & distribution, manufacturing, automotive, transport & logistics, construction, agriculture, the pharmaceutical industry, banking, insurance, facility management and professional services. In addition, we can modify solutions according to the needs of specific companies.

3. Are you certified by any international standard?

Our team offers wholesome business solutions that present a solid base for your successful growth. We guarantee first-class software system implementation at any organization. We use the already recognized Microsoft methodology in which each stage of the process is defined in advance and has a specific standard put in place. Therefore, we are ISO 9001:2015 certified. We are also certified with the highest international standard for data security, ISO/IEC 27001:2013.

1. We want to get acquainted with the solution we chose. Do you offer demos?

Some of our business solutions allow us to provide you with an online demo:

• ERP for SMB
• ERP for enterprises
• CRM apps
• Power BI

Other business solutions have too many components and data, so we usually propose to navigate the potential clients and help them get acquainted with the system. In this case, one of our experts would contact you and demonstrate the possibilities of the business management system. These solutions include our specialized software systems for specific industries.

2. What kind of infrastructure is available based on the chosen licensing option?

When the software is purchased, there are options for both an on-premise server and a private cloud. With a subscription plan, the software is located on Microsoft’s public cloud, Azure.

A client-server is the traditional model, where the company installs the software at a local server. After a certain period, the solutions may undergo updates and support for issues that may arise.

A cloud-based ERP is a subscription-based model where the user pays for the service for a set period. The payment includes the enhancement plan towards Microsoft, while the support and maintenance provided by us are subject to additional fees.

With Intelligent Systems’ cloud services, companies can use all functionalities and benefits of high-class software products. We are certified by the highest international standards for data security.

Both models have pros and cons, and a company may require one or the other, depending on its needs.

3. Is there a platform to help comply with GDPR policies?

We offer an additional application to meet the GDPR requirements for all Microsoft Dynamics NAV/Business Central versions. It includes various functionalities. You can learn more about them here.

Microsoft has specific development for Dynamics 365 that helps companies implement and comply with the rules of the General Regulation. Learn more about it here.