Businesses today need smart document management solutions. Microsoft Dynamics (D365) is great at CRM functions and SharePoint is great at managing documents. Joining these two Microsoft tools makes a strong system that helps groups do their work better.
Why Connect SharePoint with Dynamics 365?
The integration offers clear advantages:
1. Better Storage Options: SharePoint simply gives you more room for your documents than D365 alone.
2. Real Collaboration: SharePoint's version tracking and simultaneous editing features make teamwork much easier.
3. One-Stop Document Access: Find what you need without jumping between systems - access everything through D365.
4. Smart Cost Management: This way, you can keep your costs in check by not paying for premium D365 storage – and store documents where they’re supposed to be in SharePoint.
Step-by-Step Guide to Integrate Dynamics 365 with SharePoint
Step 1: Set Up Server-Based SharePoint Integration
- In Dynamics 365, click on Settings > Advanced Settings.
- Then click on Settings > Document Management and select Enable Server-Based SharePoint Integration.
- Select either Online or On-Premises depending on your SharePoint setup.
4. Enter your SharePoint site URL and follow the configuration wizard.
Step 2: Set Up Document Management Settings
1. In D365, access Settings > Document Management > Document Management Settings.
2. Pick which entities (like Accounts or Contacts) should use SharePoint document management.
3. Choose your folder structure preference - not based on entity, based on Account, or based on Contact.
Step 3: Utilize SharePoint Document Libraries within D365
After integration, your team can work with SharePoint documents directly from within D365 records. This creates a smooth workflow without platform switching.
Best Practices for Effective Integration
1. Match Your Permissions: Make sure access rights in both systems line up to avoid frustration.
2. Watch Your Storage: Keep track of how much space you're using in both systems.
3. Train Your Team: Make sure everyone knows how to use the integrated system effectively.
4. Use Smart Document Tagging: Apply metadata in SharePoint to make documents easier to find later.
Conclusion
Bringing D365 and SharePoint together enhances your document handling capabilities and improves team collaboration. The steps outlined here will help you create an integration that uses the best of both platforms.