The next version of Microsoft Dynamics CRM is coming.  It’s called Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013. This version is designed to redefine how businesses engage with their customers.  CRM 2013 represents the approach Microsoft Dynamics is taking to develop and deliver business solutions that put people at the centre.

Building up to its release we have known it as “Orion”.

 

(2013, http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/dynamics/crm-vision.aspx)

As we get closer to its release let’s take a look at a couple of areas changing with Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013, inform you of the vision and get you ready for the next release.

General Availability of CRM 2013 is scheduled for fall 2013 (October in New Zealand).

Themes

The new CRM 2013 themes can be categorised into 4 categories:

Reimagined Experience

• Cleaner, faster, more intuitive interfaces with no pop ups or flipping from one application to the next

Process Agility

• Agile process guidance so you can respond to rapidly changing business needs

CRM on the Go

• New Windows 8 and iPad mobile applications that make your sales team smarter no matter where they are by delivering a seamless experience across the web and devices. Access what you need where you need it so you can connect to customers

Social in Context

• Work across boundaries to create the right customer experiences with the enterprise power of Yammer

Licensing

With CRM 2013 Microsoft has outlined some changes to the licensing structure which affect both the Online and On-Premise versions of CRM. Microsoft is offering customers more freedom to choose and the ability to mix and match licenses, so they are not forced to fit every user into the same license.  Equivalent offerings between on-premises, online and hosted by partners also make it easier for customers to compare and decide.  Access through mobile applications is included at no extra license cost across all licenses.

New versions will be:

• Essential

• Basic

• Professional

Pricing For CRM Online (USD$)

• Essential – $15 per user per month
• Basic – $30 per user per month
• Professional – $65 per user per month

Pricing For CRM On-Premise (USD$)

• Essential – $79 per user (CAL)
• Basic – $342 per user (CAL)
• Professional – $984 per user (CAL) or $787 per device

CRM 2013 Server License: $3938 per instance

Vision

As we learnt back in the Statement of Direction (SOD) in November 2012, the continuous Microsoft Dynamics CRM vision is outlined into four areas; Proactive, Productive, Ubiquitous and Flexible.

 

(2012, http://crmpublish.blob.core.windows.net/docs/CRM_SOD_November_2012_FINAL.pdf)

 

Get ready for the next release

What should you do to get ready for the next release?

If you are an existing CRM Online or On-Premise customer, or a new customer thinking of CRM 2013, it would be worth considering CRM 2013 sooner rather than later so you can be prepared ahead of time and ensure that the upgrade or new instance is as smooth and exciting as it should be.

1. Bookmark this site: http://rc.crm.dynamics.com/rc/2011/en-us/Dynamics-CRM-Upcoming-Release-Information.aspx. This page will keep you up to date with the updates for CRM 2013.

2. Microsoft is contacting CRM Online customers directly. Look out for the email in your inbox informing you when your upgrade is scheduled.

3. Get in touch with Magnetism to help you: