Microsoft relax some CRM deadlines due to COVID-19

In recent months we’ve learnt that Microsoft had decided to make several changes that would impact your CRM solution. They included:

1. CRM 2020 Wave 1 Roll Outs

a. As we know, from 1st April 2020 is when Microsoft officially start to release the latest functionality and roll out schedules are put in place to give customers the latest and greatest functionality.

Due to the current climate, Microsoft have updated some of their schedules which is detailed at https://docs.microsoft.com/en-gb/dynamics365/get-started/release-schedule

Importantly to note, the features that were planned to be general available in April 2020 will be released at planned. However, Microsoft won’t be ‘enabling’ any features that impact end-users in April.

So whilst updates are happening, Microsoft are trying to minimise the immediate impact on you, as a CRM client.

2. A change to Team Member licenses

a. The change applies to any licenses purchase during or after October 2018
b. It meant that Team Members would no longer be able to access the Customer Service Hub, Sales Hub or custom app modules you have built in the Unified Interface.
c. Instead Team Members would have to use one of the following licenses and apps:
    i. Customer Service Team Member
    ii. Sales Team member
    iii. Project Resource Hub

This was due to be enforced this month, from 1st April 2020. However, again, due to current circumstances around COVID-19 across the globe, Microsoft have reviewed the timeline and extended the grace period until 31st December 2020.

Also, it is worth noting that all renewing customers from 1st January 2021 will need to transition to the new Team Member licenses.

In short, it is recommended that when you can, start to evaluate these new Team Member apps in your sandbox, and get in contact with the TecMan team if you need any guidance on your migration.

3. Unified Interface In – Legacy Interface Out

a. Microsoft have had a new Unified Interface available in CRM for a while now. 
b. Microsoft had announced that by 1st October 2020 all clients using the legacy client must have migrated to the Unified Interface (if not, you will be automatically moved across)

Again, during this critical time for us all, Microsoft have announced that they are relaxing this deadline by 2 months, to 1st December 2020. I know a lot of customers have now made the move, but it not everyone, for a number of different reasons. But this allows a little extra time to plan and migrate. But still, don’t take the foot off the gas, and remember you can switch over when you are ready.

Stay safe everybody during these difficult and challenging times. Team TecMan are still working and any questions or queries feel free to get in contact with us, I’m personally happy to take a Call/Teams Call etc.

Catch you soon.

Reference: https://cloudblogs.microsoft.com/dynamics365/bdm/2020/03/23/our-commitment-to-customers-to-help-ensure-business-continuity/