Business Process Flow in Microsoft CRM Can Help Streamline Operations

Posted on: January 29, 2014 | By: Jim Bertler | Microsoft Dynamics CRM

Businesses are constantly trying to streamline operations and do more with less.  They are essentially trying to better leverage technology and their investment in systems and Microsoft CRM is no exception.  With the release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013 Microsoft has taken major strides in assisting organizations with this effort.  In Microsoft CRM 2013, Microsoft introduces the Business Process Flow concept. It provides a framework that enforces sets of rules for users to guide them through a process. Out of the box, Microsoft provides three Business Process Flow Templates which are:  listed below along with a screenshot of one of the processes.

 

  • Lead to Opportunity Sales Process
  • Opportunity Sales Process

  • Phone Call to Case Process

While each of the above are generic processes, the can be used as a starting point for users.  Furthermore, Microsoft intends on releasing industry specific processes in the near future. The concept behind a Business Process Flow is simple. It is a method to guide a user through a specific process within Microsoft CRM to achieve an end result. It allows a user to back-up or jump over steps. It enforces rules to ensure that certain required data is captured, and it provides recommendations along the way.

This is a truly fresh approach to the often asked question of “How do I use CRM in my business?” The Business Process Flow is designed to be set-up or modified by an experienced CRM administrator, and generally requires no coding. As Microsoft states, It is a “deliberate move to focus on outcomes, and not on transactions.” It is an attempt to make Microsoft CRM more user friendly with specific steps that need to be followed to complete a process, instead of leaving it up to the user to figure out what should be done next.

Business Process Flows is an exciting and new concept for CRM 2013, but may take some time to catch on with experienced Microsoft CRM users. If you are interested in learning more about Business Process Flows, feel free to contact Logan Consulting for more information!

 



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