What is Microsoft Dynamics?

Sep 9

A person looking at a computer being confused about Microsoft Dynamics.

I was recently named a Microsoft MVP for the 2nd time! I realized that even though I have worked with Dynamics GP for over 20 years…I was getting confused by all of the programs that fall under Microsoft Dynamics.

I asked Microsoft Copilot to give me a list of all Current and Legacy Dynamics Programs. Below is a summary of the Dynamics ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management). I had Copilot also write a more detailed document if you want to learn more. Also, even though Copilot only included AI in the description for Dynamics 365 Financial, it is now embedded in many more of the Dynamics 365 programs. For a current list visit: Copilot for Dynamics 365.

🧩 Current Microsoft Dynamics 365 Programs

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is structured as a modular suite of intelligent business applications that span both ERP and CRM capabilities. The ERP side includes:

Dynamics 365 Business Central

Designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
Covers finance, sales, purchasing, inventory, and project management.
Legacy Origin: Evolved from Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision).

Dynamics 365 Finance

Enterprise-grade financial management platform.
Supports global operations, compliance, and performance acceleration using AI.
Legacy Origin: Evolved from Microsoft Dynamics AX (Axapta).
The following programs can be added to Dynamics 365 Finance. (Note: Some of the programs listed can be run without Dynamics 365 Finance.)

Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management (SCM)

Manages manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics.
Often paired with Dynamics 365 Finance for full ERP coverage.

Dynamics 365 Project Operations

Integrates project management, resource planning, and billing.
Built on capabilities from legacy Dynamics AX.

Dynamics 365 Human Resources

Manages HR tasks like benefits, leave, and performance.
Previously a standalone module, now integrated into Dynamics 365 Finance.

Dynamics 365 Commerce

Unified retail and e-commerce platform.
Originates from Dynamics AX Retail.

🏛️ Legacy ERP Solutions (Pre-Dynamics 365)

Before the unified Dynamics 365 platform, Microsoft offered several standalone ERP systems:

Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains)

Mid-market ERP solution focused on financials, HR, and payroll.
Known for its strong accounting features and GAAP compliance.
Still supported through 2029 (last security update currently scheduled for 2031), with updates and cloud-hosting options.

Microsoft Dynamics NAV (Navision)

ERP for SMBs, focused on finance, manufacturing, and distribution.
Now evolved into Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Microsoft Dynamics AX

Enterprise ERP for large organizations.
Covered finance, operations, HR, and retail.
Now split into Dynamics 365 Finance, SCM, and Commerce.

Microsoft Dynamics SL (Solomon)

Project-based ERP for professional services.
Less commonly used today and not part of Dynamics 365.
Mainstream support for Dynamics SL ended July 11, 2023, and its extended support (e.g, security updates) period will end on July 11, 2028

🧩 Current Microsoft Dynamics CRM Programs

Microsoft Dynamics CRM has evolved into a modular, AI-powered suite under the Dynamics 365 brand. These applications focus on customer engagement across sales, marketing, and service. These programs can integrate with Dynamics 365 Finance, Dynamics 365 Business Central, and the legacy ERP programs.

Dynamics 365 Sales

Helps sales teams manage leads, opportunities, and customer relationships.
Features AI-driven insights like next-best actions, lead prioritization, and automated follow-ups.

Dynamics 365 Customer Service

Enables omnichannel support across voice, chat, and social platforms.
Uses Copilot to assist reps with diagnostics, troubleshooting, and drafting responses.
AI agents automate case creation and follow-ups.

Dynamics 365 Marketing

Orchestrates personalized customer journeys across email, SMS, and ads.
Integrates with Customer Insights for segmentation and targeting.

Dynamics 365 Customer Insights

Unifies customer data from multiple sources.
Provides real-time analytics and segmentation for personalized engagement.

🏛️ Legacy CRM Solutions

Before Dynamics 365, Microsoft offered standalone CRM systems that laid the foundation for today’s offerings:

Microsoft Dynamics CRM (On-Premise)

Originally released in early 2000s.
Provided modules for sales, service, and marketing.
Required significant customization and infrastructure.
Eventually rebranded and absorbed into Dynamics 365.

I hope that this helps you understand the many programs that fall under Microsoft Dynamics! Next time someone tells you they use Microsoft Dynamics…or they are a Microsoft Dynamics expert…you can ask them “Which one”…

Let me know if I missed any, made any mistakes or if this changes.

Amber Bell

I have over 20 years experience training Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) clients across the United States. I previously worked with amazing Microsoft Dynamics GP partner companies in California and Connecticut.

I started my company, Training Dynamo, in order to revolutionize the way that Microsoft Dynamics GP training is delivered. I believe that training can be fun, exciting and rewarding. I know the best way I can help the Microsoft Dynamics GP community is to help Consultants by taking away the mystery of what to cover on each training session. I am on a mission to give Microsoft Dynamics GP partners and consultants the tools they need to succeed!! I have GP training materials available for resale and can provide training and tips to help them inspire their clients to see the potential of using Microsoft Dynamics GP to unify and grow their businesses!

http://www.trainingdynamo.com