RSMUS.comWith the introduction of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013, there are many improvements and enhancements but one of the areas I found to be much improved is the Processes (Workflows/Dialogs). In the past the functionality for the Processes had many limitations especially when trying to work with multiple entities and querying Dynamics CRM data.
With Dynamics CRM 2011, there were significant improvements with the addition of Dialogs and some added functionality for the traditional workflow. In Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013, they have really tried to hit it out of the park by adding much needed functionality.
Processes in Dynamics CRM 2013 now can span multiple entities, so you have a considerable amount of flexibility now when you are designing complex business logic. While this is a great addition, I think one of the biggest complaints I have heard from multiple customers is, why can’t I see the changes immediately. Previously all workflows in Dynamics CRM has to be run asynchronously which means it’s not in real time, so the process would get triggered and sit in the systems job queue waiting to be processed. Dynamics CRM 2013 has also addressed that issue by giving you the option to run synchronously (Real-Time) or asynchronously (Runs in the Background). This saves a significant amount of time because when you would have previously written a piece of jscript to perform real-time updates you can now use a synchronous process.
The last thing I would like to touch on is the Role Based Processes. This is a new addition for Dynamics CRM 2013 that was never previously available. In a nutshell, this gives you the ability to trigger workflows based on the user’s security role. This would typically involve a custom ribbon button that calls a piece of jscript to check the users role then decide the appropriate action from there. Now this can all be done directly through the interface without any coding involved.
These are only a few of the highlights that Microsoft has included in Dynamics CRM 2013 that really focus on making the whole business process and user experience much more seamless.
McGladrey’s CRM practice has achieved its Gold Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Competency in the Microsoft Partner Network and working with Microsoft Dynamics CRM since its version 1.0 release. If you have any questions or problems, please contact our professionals at crm@mcgladrey.com.
Read more articles on the new release of Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2013.
By: John Annunziato – Pennsylvania Microsoft Dynamics CRM partner
