Integrating Dynamics AX into your existing business systems can be a complex undertaking.
As someone who has worked with Dynamics AX for over a decade, I’ve learned a few tricks of the trade that can help streamline the process and avoid common pitfalls.
In this article, I’ll share 5 tips to help you get the most out of your Dynamics AX support services and integration. Whether you’re working with CRM, ERPs, or other line-of-business applications, these tried and tested tips will save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Prioritize Your Integrations
Not all integrations are created equal. When planning your Dynamics AX integration strategy, focus first on the systems and workflows that will provide the biggest return on investment.
For example, integrating Dynamics AX with your CRM can have an immediate impact on sales productivity by providing visibility into customer data and history directly within AX.
Non-essential integrations can be phased in over time. Getting the most vital touchpoints connected should be the top priority.
Leverage Native Functionality as Much as Possible
Before building complex custom integrations, take time to understand Dynamics AX’s out-of-the-box integration capabilities.
Features like Azure Service Bus, BizTalk Server adapters, and the Dynamics AX AIF service provide “connectors” to many common line-of-business systems and allow bi-directional data exchange without coding.
While you may still need some custom development, leaning on native tools can simplify the overall integration architecture.
Don’t Boil the Ocean
When integrating Dynamics AX, it’s tempting to want to connect every possible system and achieve 360-degree data visibility.
However, attempts to integrate dozens of systems at once almost always lead to cost overruns, timeline delays, and fragmented architectures.
Focus on well-defined, uni-directional integrations that solve specific business problems.
Complex bi-directional and multi-system dependencies can come later. Take an incremental approach.
Define a Scalable Integration Architecture
If you do need more sophisticated integrations, it’s crucial to have a structured approach.
Clearly define public APIs, common schemas, interchange formats, and work queues. Use integration tools like BizTalk, MuleSoft, or Azure Logic Apps to centralize connectivity.
Make sure to document key integration touchpoints and data mappings. This creates an architecture that can easily scale as new systems are connected over time.
Monitor Performance and Fix Bottlenecks
Once integrations are live, proactively monitor performance using tools like the Azure Service Bus Explorer.
Keep an eye out for error spikes and throughput lags. Slow integrations can create downstream issues in Dynamics AX.
Quickly fix bottlenecks, optimize batches, adjust polling intervals, and redeploy updated solutions. This fine-tuning should be ongoing, not just during the initial go-live.
Integrating Dynamics AX doesn’t have to be painful.
With a strategic approach and these tips in mind, you can create high-performing integrations that provide tangible business value and position your organization for future growth.
