Need help getting some data into Dynamics 365? Here are the top 3 options:
1) Built-In Import Data Wizard (Typically CSV or Excel file)
Pros:
- Supports record creation and updates (limited)
- Uses a built-in wizard
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Must use Excel templates for updates, will not update records that were modified in CRM since the Excel template was exported
- Does not support importing multiple tables (for example order header and order lines) in one pass
- Does not support record deletion
- Does not support automation
Instructions:
2) Dynamic Worksheet
Pros:
- Supports record creation and updates
- Uses built-in functionality
- Easy to use
- Requires free add-on for MS Office, some setup required
Cons:
- Does not support importing multiple tables
- Does not support automation
- Must use the columns and format provided in the file, cannot use other formats, so often hard to use when importing from another system
Instructions:
3) Using a 3rd Party Product
Pros:
- Allows for automation of importing files
- Typically easier for more complicated imports and multiple table imports
- Supports create, update, and delete
- Supports reading from more than CSV/Excel files. Typically also supports SQL and other standard ODBC connections
- Can support communication between various products
Cons:
- Additional cost
Examples:
- Tibco: https://www.tibco.com/solutions/microsoft-dynamics-365-integration
- SmartConnect: https://smartconnect.eonesolutions.com/connection/dynamics-365-customer-service-integration
- SSIS: https://www.kingswaysoft.com/products/ssis-integration-toolkit-for-microsoft-dynamics-365
4) APIs (Web services)
Pros:
- Supports create, update, and delete (and more)
- Full control of the data going to and from CRM
- Full control of reading any data source
Cons:
- Requires developer skills (Let us know! We have developers who can help you with this)
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