10 Game-Changing Features and Benefits of Dynamics 365 Finance for Distributors

Cloud technologies are widely recognized as an accelerator for growth, particularly for distributors struggling with a variety of inefficient systems and applications to run the business. If you are a distributor looking to take that next step to a unified cloud platform, this article is a great start to learn why Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management is an excellent fit for your industry.

For more than 30 years, Western Computer has been deeply committed to helping distributors be successful. We know you need technology that empowers you to be agile, lean, and competitive, and the Dynamics 365 platform has proven to be truly transformational.

Here are 10 reasons why our distribution customers choose Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management and Western Computer:

1. Flexible Product Catalog and Bundling

Your business depends on the ability to offer a dynamic selection of quality products at competitive prices. Many distributors run into problems with a product catalog that isn’t flexible, isn’t set up properly, and isn’t tied to inventory in real-time. Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management is super flexible with options for style, color, size, etc. and easy bundling so you can give your customers exactly what they want. You can also boost profits with the ability to create targeted promotions to move product and identify trends to capitalize on consumer interest.

2. Fully Embedded WMS

With Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management, you have an embedded (not just integrated) Warehouse Management System (WMS) that can manage multiple warehouses in one solution. You not only eliminate the costs, maintenance, and data siloes of a disconnected WMS, you gain new insights and automations that will completely optimize your supply chain.

3. Unified Omnichannel Distribution Platform

Are you selling products through multiple channels such as retail, eCommerce, 3PL, online marketplaces like Amazon and Walmart, or all the above? You will be amazed at how much more efficient and profitable this can be with an ERP solution built to manage omnichannel distribution. You can bring all your channels and EDI together in one place and consolidate operations like never before.

4. Advanced Financial Management

If you have been using a basic or outdated accounting system, you may not know how much the limitations have been impacting your entire organization. Powerful financial management is a must for growing distributors and with Dynamics 365 Finance, you can automate financial processes and reporting across departments and entities for laser-focused, accurate insights. Another major benefit is the ability to tag transactions in unlimited ways by using “dimensions” so you can simplify your chart of accounts and track, allocate, and report on expenses  and revenue in ways that makes sense for your business.

5. Real-Time Visibility Across the Business

Because the Dynamics 365 platform is seamlessly integrated with Power BI, you can connect multiple internal and external data sources for a holistic view of your organization at a glance. Consolidate operational and financial data with ease and create interactive, visual dashboards where you can drill down into your data with a single click. You can’t make data-driven decisions with last month’s spreadsheets—you need real-time performance metrics at your fingertips on any device.

6. Embedded Parcel Shipping

How much time is wasted shopping and managing multiple carrier sites for your parcel shipping? With Western Computer’s 365ParcelShip, you can save a ton of time with a one-stop parcel shipping solution inside Dynamics 365 Finance. Manage all your carriers with real-time rates, inventory, orders, and customer details without shuffling between carrier sites or systems.

7. Easy Scalability for Growth

All the cool features and functionality in the world won’t help you if the technology can’t support your growth and evolve with your business. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management is a true SaaS solution with Microsoft’s unparalleled investment in continuous innovation. Enjoy flexible configurations, predictable subscription licensing, and the ability to tailor your functionality to your needs today and into the future—on your terms.

8. Anytime, Anywhere Mobility in the Cloud

With a cloud ERP solution, you enable employees to be productive at any time, from any location or device. Management can make more proactive decisions when they don’t have to be in the office at their computer to take care of business. The freedom the cloud offers cannot be overstated, especially for distributors operating outside of normal business hours or spanning multiple locations and time zones.

9. Simplified Integrations and Configurations

Another benefit of Dynamics 365 vs. legacy on-premises solutions is a much easier process for configurations and integrations. Not only will you appreciate native integration with Microsoft Teams, Power BI, and your other Microsoft Office applications like Outlook and Excel—integrating external applications is smoother and easier as well.

10. Rapid Deployment Option by Distribution Experts

With a full team of advanced distribution experts, Western Computer is able to offer what many partners can’t. You can’t afford to wait for a lengthy deployment and with us, you don’t have to. Our 10-week implementation of Dynamics 365 Finance and Supply Chain Management gets you ready to go live quickly with core financials and inventory management so you can grow and compete faster than you ever imagined possible.

Maximize Your Technology Investment with Western Computer

When implementing a new ERP solution, the technology is only part of the solution. Having full confidence and trust in your partner is essential. Beyond our decades of experience in your industry, our distribution customers choose us for our passion to nurture you through your growth. Your team is there for the long haul including planning and strategy, best practices, training and support, and ongoing recommendations to help you reach your goals.

Would you like to start with a personal discussion with one of our distribution experts? We will answer your questions, explore options, and provide a demonstration so you can see the features we’ve covered in this article and many more. Contact us today to take the next step in your digital transformation.