Each methodology has both strengths and weaknesses, and no one size fits all in the ERP world. Hence, the project team should carefully evaluate the best fitting methodology to achieve the business goal.
No one size will fit all the situations; however, for easing your effort in a methodology, we are sharing a comparative summary of the key attributes of the preceding methodologies:
| Attribute/methodology | CRP | Agile | Waterfall |
|
End-to-end greenfield implementation of Dynamics 365 for Finance and Operations, Enterprise edition or Business edition |
This is the latest and most recommended methodology from Microsoft in this modern digital cloud era |
Though this could be used, a lot of project management efforts will be needed, as it will not be able to handle all the ambiguities that come with an ERP implementation |
Traditional approach, which is still OK to use, but the duration of the project is typically longer before one can start reaping benefits |
|
Enhancements and new feature implementations |
Very well-suited to these initiatives |
Depending upon the delivery duration and clarity of requirements and technical design, this methodology can be used. |
Typically, this one is not used for a shorter duration due to the huge efforts involved |
|
Upgrades/migration |
Very well-suited to these initiatives |
This methodology may be used in upgrades and could have significant overlaps with the CRP methodology |
This methodology could be used; however, for faster ROI and buy in from end users, either CRP or agile should be preferred |
|
Support/maintenance |
Very well-suited to these initiatives |
This methodology overlaps with the CRP methodology and is suited for support |
Typically, this one is not used for a shorter duration due to the huge efforts involved |
What has worked for us is the CRP methodology while implementing and embracing Dynamics 365 solutions. As your new ERP is no longer a traditional application, the traditional approach of waterfall may not be the best fit, while agile is not intended for long-running initiatives. Hence, it is also carefully used, based on the situation.
After selecting the methodology and project implementation strategy, let's look at the tool sets available to help your implementation project. Microsoft LCS combines all the tools you will need throughout your project lifecycle. The next section provides an overview of LCS, and all the tools available and their use.