Why Microsoft Dynamics AX Retail Module?

When Microsoft structures its software, the focus is on how you, the business professional, are better able to meet your customer’s needs, as well as streamline processes for the end user. Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012’s retail module offers users the capability to fully manage brick-and-mortar and on-line stores, point-of-sale registers, products and product catalogs. It also provides numerous out-of-the box reports and inquiry functions so your management team can access the information most valuable to them.

Among many of the features that set Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 apart from the competition is fact that the retail module provides a single run-time engine for commerce. This feature allows for maximum control and efficiency across all channels whether they be in-store or online. Additionally, catalogs can be managed to a greater degree with unlimited assortments, categories, and pricing functionality which allows for greater profitability. Retail users also have the ability to run inquiries and reports that offer insight into those product classes. Customers visiting the on-line store will be amazed at the detailed product descriptions and custom content. In-store, mobile POS device integration facilitates customer service and interaction. Also, since there is a single run-time engine for commerce, online shops are therefore fully integrated with brick-and-mortar stores. This, in turn, provides your customers with a greater online shopping experience by being able to place an order online and pick up the item in-store.

Additionally, Point-of-sale terminals can be centrally managed at the store level, regionally and globally. The POS user interface is easily customizable and offers powerful capabilities to allow users to have the functionality they desire to provide better customer service. As the POS registers are centrally managed, the Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 Retail module contains an ERP data model which delivers accurate and timely data. In addition, data replication techniques in the retail module simplify updating data across organizations. As any businesses’ focus is on its customers, the retail functionality also allows its users to identify trends, provide personalized service, track demographic data, and share promotions through social sites.

The biggest takeaway is that the Retail application is integrated with core Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012.  Most POS systems are standalone and require an integration to be built. The retail module is a fully-integrated online storefront right out-of-the-box and can also be integrated with other Microsoft products such as Commerce Services, Payment Services and Sites services, which makes Microsoft Dynamics AX 2012 the prominent ERP answer to your business needs.

This blog post references the Microsoft Dynamic Retailer white paper which can be downloaded at http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/dynamics/retail.aspx .

This post written by Robin Ellsworth, Dynamics AX Application Consultant for Tridea Partners. Tridea is a leading Microsoft Dynamics AX provider.