Microsoft Exchange Server Integration in AX2012 R3 CU8

One of the main features being added as a part of AX R3 CU8 is integration with Microsoft Exchange Server, which is an alternative to the existing Microsoft Outlook integration with AX. This integration allows one to synchronize Exchange appointments, tasks, and contacts with AX, similar to how the Microsoft Outlook integration feature works. It will allow employees who work in a remote desktop or terminal server environment to also efficiently leverage the integration feature.

There are important administrator notes regarding downloading the Exchange Web Services DLL that can be found at: https://mbs2.microsoft.com/Knowledgebase/KBDisplay.aspx?scid=kb;EN-US;2984369

It’s important to note as mentioned in the KB2984369 that the Microsoft Exchange Web Services Managed API 2.0 is downloaded to the client

http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=35371

When you run the CU8 AX Client installation the prerequisite checks will point to the 1.2 version of the Exchange Web Services so you need to make sure you have updated to the 2.0 API.

Detailed information on how to set up integration with Exchange Server can be found on TechNet: http://msdn.microsoft.com/en-us/vsto/hh209649(v=ax.50).aspx

The administrator will have the responsibility to enter the Exchange Server information, which can be found under Organization Administration > Setup > Microsoft Outlook or Exchange Server Integration > Microsoft Outlook or Exchange Server Parameters. Then, the administrator can select Exchange Server as the program to synchronize, as well as the default Exchange Server URL.

For the non administrator roles, the only difference between the Microsoft Outlook setup is that you will have to enter your Exchange Server credentials during the setup process.

Once the setup is done, you are able to synchronize your appointments, contacts, and tasks in the same manner as the Microsoft Outlook integration feature.

Posted on behalf of Brenda Lee from the R&D team who worked on this feature.