For many years, Microsoft Dynamics AX, formerly Axapta, has helped a countless number of organizations handle core areas of their business, including project, manufacturing, supply chain and financial management. In 2014 end-users can expect improved tools and functionality in the Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3 release. Here are a few anticipated capabilities that AX 2012 R3 will offer from April 2014 onwards:
- E-Procurement Features: Part of AX 2012, new horizontal capabilities are expected to cover e-procurement for enhanced operational efficiency. Some of these capabilities include improved management of Request for Quote (RFQ), Request for Proposal (RFP), and Request for Information (RFI); sealed, open and reverse auction bids for better response to offers; and new evaluation criteria for improved decision making.
- Anticipated Budget Planning Features: New demand forecasting and budget planning capabilities added to Microsoft Dynamics AX make possible budget allocation according to changing market conditions; control-by-default functionality based on individual budget plans; and assessment of various budgeting scenarios in accordance with “what-if” analyses.
- Integrated Supply Chain Management Features: Developed for streamlining warehouse, distribution and transportation operations, new supply chain management features will improve inventory control through 360-degree visibility; real-time inventory cycle counting, which will balance inventory and operating expenses; real-time transaction processing; mobile order placement and confirmation; and rate, route and load multi-mode planning.
- New Retail Features: With more focus on omni-channel shopping, Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 R3 proposes new capabilities, including mobile POS for Windows Phone 8; multiple storefronts and languages; enhanced support for gift cards, wish lists and customer-specific pricing; and a series of enrichments to assortments, catalogs and promotions.
Microsoft Dynamics AX: What’s in It for You?
The upcoming Microsoft Dynamics AX update will facilitate demand forecasting based on product variants, customer preferences, geographical areas, resource availability, and production and warehouse capacity. Further, the shift towards a mobile friendly approach in Dynamics AX 2012 R3 opens opportunities for partners to provide administrative tasks "on-the-go" to improve real-time visibility and customer value. Centering capacities on what your customers need, and not just on what you want to achieve, the new tools and features included in this ERP solution will support your efforts to offer customers a truly amazing experience.
