Mastering Microsoft Dynamics 365 Implementations by Eric Newell

Book Review: Mastering Microsoft Dynamics 365 Implementations by Eric Newell

Star Rating: ★★★★☆

Eric Newell’s Mastering Microsoft Dynamics 365 Implementations serves as an essential guide for anyone involved in the complex world of enterprise resource planning (ERP) and customer relationship management (CRM) software deployments. With his background as the Co-Founder and CEO of Stoneridge Software, a Microsoft Gold Partner, Newell brings a wealth of practical insights and hands-on experience to the table, making this book not just a theoretical read but a practical manual for project success.

Content and Structure:

The book is structured in a clear, methodical manner, taking readers through the lifecycle of a Microsoft Dynamics 365 implementation from inception to completion. Newell outlines precise steps, in a logical sequence, that are indispensable for bringing such an implementation project to a successful conclusion. The text is divided into chapters that cover everything from pre-project groundwork like stakeholder identification and building a business case to managing change throughout the project lifecycle and conducting conference room pilots (CRPs).

Strengths:

• Holistic Approach: Newell's holistic approach ensures that readers understand not just the technical aspects but also the human elements like change management, which are crucial for the success of any ERP/CRM project.

• Practical Guidance: The book is filled with actionable advice and real-world examples. It's particularly useful for project managers, CIOs, CFOs, and business analysts who might not have deep technical knowledge but need to oversee or contribute to an implementation.

• Comprehensive Coverage: It tackles the often overlooked areas such as what to do before starting the project, dealing with mid-project challenges, and post-implementation support, offering a 360-degree view of the implementation process.

• Readability: Despite its technical nature, the book is written in an accessible manner, avoiding overly complex jargon which makes it suitable for a broad audience within an organization.

Weaknesses:

• Brevity in Some Areas: There are moments where the depth seems a tad shallow for those seeking an exhaustive treatment on specific technical challenges or solutions. This might necessitate further reading for very complex implementations.

Who Should Read It?

This book is a must-read for anyone directly involved in or managing a Dynamics 365 project. It's perfect for:

• Project Managers looking for a step-by-step guide to manage their implementation effectively.
• C-level Executives who need to understand the implications and management of such large-scale projects.
• Technical Teams navigating the specifics of Dynamics 365 deployment.
• Consultants or IT Specialists within or outside an organization looking to deepen their expertise in Microsoft's ecosystem.

Conclusion:

Mastering Microsoft Dynamics 365 Implementations stands out as a practical reference that combines project management wisdom with specific software implementation tactics. While it might not cover every possible scenario in the vast field of ERP/CRM implementations, Newell’s insights provide a robust foundation for anyone aiming to lead or contribute to a Dynamics 365 project. The book earns its four stars for being a comprehensive, actionable guide tailored for the Dynamics 365 landscape, though readers should be aware of its general focus if they're looking for more specific technical advice.