 Dynamics 365 Finance harnesses the capabilities of the Microsoft Cloud to enhance global scalability, financial agility, and operational efficiency, all while safeguarding existing investments. Leveraging real-time insights facilitates enhanced business outcomes, and automated processes contribute to heightened productivity. The system's interoperability with other Microsoft solutions ensures the secure availability of business data within workflows. This results in the avoidance of additional hires, alleviation of staff burden, and the modernization of outdated, disconnected legacy ERP solutions.
Digital Initiatives and the Rise of Digital Operations Platforms (DOPs) In today's rapidly evolving business landscape, digital initiatives are essential for driving transformation across the entire enterprise, encompassing financial, operational, and organizational processes. However, many traditional enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems have fallen short in their promise to unify and connect business processes effectively. Legacy ERP systems often become highly customized to meet specific business needs, making them difficult to update or adapt to support new digital business models. Finance, operations, and manufacturing professionals understandably fear that disruptive changes to their ERP systems could jeopardize the stability and efficiency of their organizations. Emerging from this context is a new era of operational systems that are so fundamentally different from traditional ERP systems that the term "ERP" no longer accurately captures their capabilities. Forrester Research has coined the term "digital operations platforms" (DOPs) to reflect the agile, AI-powered, and experience-driven nature of these systems and their critical role in enabling digital business. To assess the potential return on investment (ROI) of adopting Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance, a leading DOP solution, Microsoft commissioned Forrester Consulting to conduct a Total Economic Impact™ (TEI) study. This study provides a framework for evaluating the potential financial impact of Dynamics 365 Finance on organizations. To gain insights into the benefits, costs, and risks associated with this investment, Forrester interviewed four representatives with experience using Dynamics 365 Finance. For the purposes of the study, Forrester aggregated the interviewees' experiences and combined the results into a single composite organization representing a retail and wholesale company with 120 finance personnel and annual revenue of $750 million. Prior to adopting Dynamics 365 Finance, the interviewees' companies were hindered by their on-premises, heavily customized finance ERP solutions. Finance and IT staff were burdened by manual, inefficient processes, while the organizations lacked the real-time insights and platform flexibility necessary to innovate, adapt to the changing business landscape, and respond to disruptions effectively. Moving to Dynamics 365 Finance in the cloud afforded these organizations the chance to reassess their finance ERP's role in the business, facilitating improved decision-making through real-time insights and the business agility necessary for innovation in challenging market conditions. The streamlining of processes, avoidance of infrastructure and solution costs, and the realization of personnel productivity and cost savings were notable outcomes. Key Findings: Quantified Benefits: Finance personnel productivity enhancements of up to 55%, resulting in approximately $2.3 million in productivity savings and avoided hires over three years. This is achieved by standardizing on Dynamics 365 Finance, streamlining financial processes, leveraging real-time information, and reducing the need for external hires. IT staff productivity improvements exceeding $400,000. Standardizing on Dynamics 365 Finance reduces IT administrator and developer staff hours by providing a more maintainable finance ERP solution with enhanced functionality and fewer customizations. Legacy cost savings surpassing $3.5 million. The migration to Dynamics 365 in the cloud eliminates expenses related to infrastructure refreshes, redundant ERP solutions, and external support costs. Unquantified Benefits: Enhanced visibility and access to real-time data, improving business agility and decision-making. Dynamics 365 Finance enables the organization to make informed decisions based on accurate, real-time data, maximizing revenues. Improved system availability with Dynamics 365 in the cloud, decreasing the likelihood of outages or disruptions to finance or accounting processes. Enhanced regulatory compliance processes while navigating diverse regions and shifting regulatory requirements. Quality of life improvements for finance personnel by eliminating tedious, repetitive work through standardization on Dynamics 365 Finance. Costs: Three-year, risk-adjusted present value costs for the composite organization include Dynamics 365 subscription fees, initial partner implementation and support fees, and internal implementation and ongoing management effort. The total costs amount to $2.80 million. In summary, the composite organization experiences a net present value (NPV) of $3.41 million and a Return on Investment (ROI) of 122%, with benefits totaling $6.22 million over three years, showcasing the considerable positive impact of implementing Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance. We possessed a decade's worth of financial data in diverse states of accuracy. As a company with an almost billion-dollar footprint, we employed nearly 20 distinct accounting methods, none of which were flawless. The imperative was to converge on a standardized system that could eliminate the need for extensive customizations. TEI Framework and Methodology: Forrester developed a Total Economic Impact™ (TEI) framework based on the information gathered in interviews for organizations contemplating an investment in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance. The primary goal of this framework is to discern the cost, benefit, flexibility, and risk factors influencing the decision to invest. Forrester employed a comprehensive, multistep approach to assess the potential impact of Dynamics 365 Finance on an organization. Disclosures: It is essential for readers to note the following disclosures: This study is commissioned by Microsoft and conducted by Forrester Consulting. It is not intended for use as a competitive analysis. Forrester does not make assumptions about the potential Return on Investment (ROI) that other organizations may receive. Readers are strongly advised to use their own estimates within the study's framework to determine the suitability of an investment in Dynamics 365 Finance. While Microsoft reviewed and provided feedback to Forrester, Forrester maintains editorial control over the study and its findings. No changes were accepted that contradicted Forrester's findings or obscured the study's meaning. Microsoft supplied the customer names for the interviews but did not actively participate in the interviews. The Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance Customer Journey: The study explores the drivers that lead organizations to invest in Dynamics 365 Finance, examining the factors shaping the customer journey in adopting this Microsoft solution. For free consolation https://www.ofoqconsulting.com/
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 Core organizational data, encompassing financial, HR, and supplier information stored within ERP systems, plays a pivotal role in accomplishing ESG objectives. ERP data has the potential to reduce carbon emissions, facilitate sustainable supply chains, introduce circular economy practices, and more. Enterprises that embrace the digital transformation of their ERP systems position themselves to effectively monitor and analyze ESG metrics, enabling data-driven decision-making.
Nevertheless, conventional ERP systems may fall short in terms of flexibility and scalability required to drive ESG objectives. Extracting and amalgamating data across various functions can pose significant challenges. On-premises ERP deployments can also hinder the scaling of new capabilities and obtaining a comprehensive overview of an organization's sustainability performance. Utilizing the Appropriate Data:Companies leverage data stored in their ERP systems, such as purchase orders, invoices, and energy consumption, to gauge their environmental impacts. Diverse data types are indispensable for addressing various ESG factors, such as HR data for assessing diversity and supply chain data for evaluating emissions. Customer profiles stored within CRM systems can also furnish valuable insights. Managing this data necessitates sophisticated systems and analysis to categorize it into relevant scopes and categories. Effective ERP systems can support the collection, analysis, and reporting of ESG impacts, but this journey is marked by substantial data management challenges. Journey to ESG Data Maturity:Advancing towards ESG data maturity is a journey that Microsoft initiated early and continues to undertake. The subsequent section delineates this journey into three distinct phases: 3 Phases of ESG Data Maturity: This section provides practical guidance regarding the typical phases of ESG data maturity, drawing from Microsoft's experience. This progression is not always linear and can diverge based on an organization's commitment to specific ESG goals, incentives, and leadership. Phase 1: Emerging The emerging stage of ESG maturity encompasses ad hoc initiatives using existing data housed in different systems. Reports in this phase may lack granularity, and calculating intricate ESG realities can prove challenging. Significant manual effort is required to collate and manage data, rendering analysis and reporting reactive. This phase serves as a learning phase where organizations discern what they need, possess, and lack. However, prolonging this phase by merely reacting without reflecting on avenues for improvement is discouraged. To attain ESG data maturity, emerging organizations should prioritize standardizing and unifying their data, invest in technology and tools to streamline data management, and institute clear and consistent data collection protocols. Continuous improvement is imperative for a sustainable and manageable approach to ESG data management. Phase 2: Hybrid In this stage, the organization has integrated ESG data into its enterprise-wide data strategy, but legacy systems impose limitations. ESG reporting and decision-making remain labor-intensive, and a shift towards cloud-based ERP systems may be on the horizon. Embracing flexible, enterprise-grade tools for visualizing sustainability data and employing AI and machine learning capabilities can help surmount data-related challenges. Data-agnostic storage solutions, like data lakes, can also be beneficial. Transitioning data to a cloud-based data lake empowers organizations with enhanced security, scalability, and flexibility in managing ESG data. The incorporation of third-party, cloud-based data fosters a more comprehensive understanding of ESG risks, compliance matters, and performance in comparison to peers and industry standards. Establishing robust data governance and security protocols is essential to the responsible and proficient management of sensitive ESG data. Phase 3: Advanced At this phase, actionable ESG insights are readily accessible to decision-makers and stakeholders. The organization has digitally revolutionized its data strategy and governance by centralizing ERP data in the cloud through an agile, composable platform. Emphasis is placed on staging, filtering, and cleansing data lakes to enable in-depth business intelligence reporting across the enterprise data estate. AI and machine learning models aid in identifying and prioritizing ESG risks and opportunities, while Natural Language Processing (NLP) delves into unstructured ESG data to deepen comprehension of public sentiment regarding ESG performance. These capabilities empower organizations to craft a comprehensive ESG strategy, exhibit authentic leadership, and surpass stakeholder expectations. 4 Tips for Commencing the ESG Data Journey: This section shares pragmatic recommendations gleaned from Microsoft's and others' experiences in successfully launching ESG data initiatives: Focus Your Efforts To advance ESG data initiatives, organizations should concentrate on the most significant endeavors, gradually expanding their capabilities. The specific focus depends on stakeholder expectations, regulatory commitments, and industry requisites. For example, manufacturers might prioritize sustainable packaging and supply chain emissions, while financial services firms may emphasize ESG risk mitigation. Commence with Simple Methods When adopting new analytics and reporting tools, beginning with straightforward methods is advisable. Microsoft suggests a spend-based approach for estimating emissions, involving the collection of spending data from sources such as invoices and procurement records and the use of conversion factors for emission estimations. Although it may not offer the most precise estimate, this method is relatively uncomplicated and cost-effective, making it an excellent starting point for many organizations. Complexity and sophistication can be progressively integrated over time. Prepare for If an organization has not initiated the adoption of a modern and flexible ERP solution, ESG requirements can serve as a compelling motivator to commence the transformation. Microsoft recommends the use of a composable, Microsoft Dynamic cloud-based ERP system that unifies data across business lines, supports modern analytics, facilitates the rapid addition of new functionality, and scales to accommodate evolving requirements without necessitating complex infrastructure planning. Harness Cloud Solutions Solutions such as Microsoft Sustainability Manager empower organizations to record, report, and reduce their environmental impact more seamlessly through automated data connections that deliver actionable insights. 4 Approaches through which Microsoft Drives ESG Performance: Microsoft's longstanding commitment to ESG leadership offers valuable insights to organizations at various stages of their own ESG journeys: Scale Strategy to Accomplish Ambitions via Holistic Engagement Microsoft adopts a comprehensive approach to ESG by evaluating its impact as a customer, supplier, investor, employer, policy advocate, and partner. It assesses its influence on carbon footprint, water consumption, waste management, and ecosystems. Microsoft also provides technology to aid customers and partners in their sustainability efforts, invests in research and collaborations, and advocates for policies that drive positive change. Set the Tone from the Top Prioritize sustainability as a fundamental aspect of the brand's commitment and garner support from all leaders. Microsoft deems the well-being of people and the planet as a core priority for achieving overall success. This belief is shared by the CEO, CFO, President, and the entire company. Microsoft's Climate Council, consisting of senior business leaders from every business group, provides sustainability counsel, fosters collaboration, aligns priorities and resources, and evaluates progress. Moreover, carbon reduction objectives influence a portion of its executive incentive plan. Integrate ESG into the Business while Tailoring It to Business Group Levels Corporate commitments at the strategic level come to life at the business-group level. Microsoft acknowledges this and has established roadmaps for each focus area (carbon, water, waste, and ecosystems) with specific commitments for each business group. To ensure sustainability across its supply chain, it offers capacity-building tools, resources, and sustainable supply chain financing to its suppliers. The company holds its business groups accountable for their carbon emissions through an internal carbon fee that extends to Scope 3 emissions. Microsoft defines measurements and scorecards for each business group's sustainability commitments and conducts biannual progress assessments. By adhering to these practices, organizations can facilitate meaningful change and contribute to a more sustainable future. Report on All Aspects, Not Just Progress Environmental sustainability necessitates a dedication to transparency, and Microsoft specifically commits to it. The company shares its sustainability insights through various channels, including white papers and speaking engagements. It also shares its methodologies for achieving results when it succeeds in its sustainability efforts, aiming to assist others in achieving similar outcomes. Beyond delivering innovative technology and services, Microsoft heavily invests in policy advocacy, partnerships, and research to advance environmental sustainability. It openly communicates its challenges to foster collective learning and improvement. The Collaborative ESG Data Journey: Embracing sustainability as a strategic imperative and digitally transforming ERP systems can contribute to a better world for future generations. As Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP migration experts, we can partner with your organization to integrate ESG performance into core systems and processes, enabling your business to make a positive impact. As ESG regulations evolve, we collaborate with your organization to ensure that your ERP systems drive ESG impacts and advance sustainability, paving the way for a more sustainable future. If you are interested in learning more about how Microsoft Dynamic 365 ERP systems can benefit your business, please reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation. We can assist you in evaluating your needs and identifying the right ERP solution for your organization. Contact us now. Enhancing Business Purpose and Profit through Microsoft Dynamics 365 ERP: Navigating ESG Challenges11/6/2023  In today's corporate landscape, business leaders face mounting pressure to monitor and disclose their progress in achieving sustainability and social responsibility objectives, encompassed within the framework of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) priorities. Yet, there is a lack of consensus on how to effectively address these demands, and while future regulations may provide clarity, decision-makers must currently chart their course through this uncharted territory. But what is ESG, exactly? ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance and signifies a set of criteria for assessing a company's impact on the environment, society, and the management of its operations. Adhering to high ESG standards is a critical measure of a company's sustainability and social responsibility. Leveraging data effectively is paramount for success. By optimizing Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems and data analysis, businesses can unlock valuable insights to refine their ESG strategy, identify impactful initiatives, and monitor and communicate their progress.
Tackling the ESG Data Challenge: The importance of ESG performance has soared, driven by growing expectations from investors, regulators, and customers. To navigate this landscape successfully, companies must rely on robust data and analytics to monitor their progress, drive transformation, and engage with stakeholders. Nevertheless, enhancing the data landscape to meet these evolving demands can be a time-consuming endeavor in this rapidly changing field. In this e-book, we delve into some of the challenges associated with ESG data and how to embark on resolving them, including insights drawn from the experiences of companies like Microsoft and others. With the right approach, data can be harnessed to foster trust, manage risks, and seize opportunities in sustainability and social responsibility. Four Key Challenges of ESG Reporting for C-Suite Executives: Chief Financial Officers (CFOs), Chief Operating Officers (COOs), and Chief Supply Chain Officers (CSCOs) grapple with intricate challenges when it comes to managing and reporting on ESG impacts. To navigate this landscape effectively, executives in these roles must contend with shifting regulations, evolving consumer preferences, and heightened public scrutiny. They must also oversee complex supply chain dynamics, encompassing aspects like sourcing raw materials, production processes, transportation, and waste management. Balancing financial performance with social and environmental responsibilities adds another layer of complexity to their efforts. Striking a Balance Between Financial and ESG Impact:Economic outcomes are no longer the sole determinants when making strategic decisions, investments, and vendor selections. Additional factors, such as carbon emissions, water consumption, and labor considerations, have gained prominence. CFOs should strive to furnish ESG data of the same caliber as financial reports to inform decision-making. All executives must integrate economic and ESG considerations into their efforts to optimize outcomes. Adapting to Regulatory Changes:As ESG regulations continue to evolve, organizations require adaptable and scalable tools for data collection and analysis. Reporting frameworks like the Sustainability Accounting Standards Board (SASB) and the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) can serve as foundational guides in regions where regulations remain ambiguous. For instance, in the European Union, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) mandates non-financial public disclosures on ESG topics for companies, making it the world's most comprehensive mandatory ESG reporting framework. This directive is part of the European Green Deal, which seeks to achieve climate neutrality by 2050 by focusing on energy efficiency targets, circular economy practices, enhanced corporate transparency, scrutiny of supply chains, and consumer information. Companies under the CSRD must report on scope 1, 2, and 3 Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions, environmental and social impacts, as well as corporate governance practices and performance. Responding to Double Materiality:ESG reporting extends beyond assessing the immediate impact on shareholder value. It also encompasses the consideration of social and environmental effects on stakeholders and their potential influence on long-term value. The concept of "double materiality" is now central to ESG analysis due to increasing financial and reputation risks. Consequently, companies must factor ESG considerations into their reporting and strategizing to address impacts and risks effectively. Measuring Complex Impacts:Gauging ESG impact presents inherent challenges. For example, when measuring emissions, the Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Protocol, a widely recognized standard, defines best practices for carbon accounting. It categorizes carbon emissions into three scopes: Scope 1: Direct emissions from business activities, such as fuel combustion in cloud datacenters. Scope 2: Indirect emissions from energy production, such as carbon dioxide from electric power plants. Scope 3: Indirect emissions stemming from all other business activities, including those associated with raw material extraction, manufacturing, and IT services. A significant majority of emissions, estimated at 80 to 90 percent, fall under scope 3, making it the most complex and demanding category for organizations to assess. If you are interested in learning more about how Microsoft Dynamic 365 ERP systems can benefit your business, please reach out to us today for a complimentary consultation. We can assist you in evaluating your needs and identifying the right ERP solution for your organization. Contact us now. |
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