As a manufacturer, you rely on multiple sources of information and insights to help you grow your business. Although we use mostly digital references, let’s not forget sources, including paper books. To this point, I thought it would be a good idea to put together a top list of books on Microsoft Dynamics for manufactures. Each covers different areas and ways to get you to grow and manage your processes. Let me know your thoughts on these books and what you like most about them.
5 Microsoft Dynamics Books for Manufacturing Professionals
According to a search on Amazon.com, here are some of the top books for IEM professionals utilizing Microsoft Dynamics for manufacturing operations.
1. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Unleashed
By Marc Wolenik, Damian Sinay and Rajya Vardhan Bhaiya
Covering the most recent version of the Microsoft Dynamics CRM, this book explores everything from planning to securing your solution. It goes into more detail on the opportunities for efficiency by integrating with cloud services and extending CRM, using the new online service marketplace.
The key takeaway from Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Unleashed is how each author not only walks you through the entire cycle of using the product, but giving you the key opportunities to extend it, including:
- Mobile
- Office 2010 integration
- Outlook client
2. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Administration Bible
By Matthew Wittemann and Geoff Ables
Published in March of 2011, this guide gives insights and instruction from two Microsoft Dynamics experts. Giving you step-by-step instruction on the latest techniques, including configuration and customization to automating business processes and integrating with Microsoft Office, this guide is an essential book for any IEM professional.
The key takeaway from Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Administration Bible is how it covers nearly everything for any skill set. From beginner to advancer user, Wittemann and Ables cover everything you need to get the most out of your CRM.
3. Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Reporting
By Christopher Liley and David Duncan
Reporting is a key component of Microsoft Dynamics GP and this book gives you the guidance to creating reports – correctly. Both Liley and Duncan are certified Microsoft consultants and give their knowledge into each page on setting up and producing effective reports in this CRM.
The key takeaway from Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 Reporting is how the authors not only give you actionable information on reporting, but also on topics including:
- Locating data for reports
- How this information relates to older versions – for those not yet ready or unable to upgrade their systems
4. Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Step by Step
By Mike Snyder, Jim Steger and Brendan Landers
Different people learn in different ways. Some prefer a more structured, step-by-step approach to Microsoft Dynamics learning – this book is perfect for those types of learners. Built on lessons and easy to reference tips and reminders, Snyder, Steger and Landers provide expert instruction through a book that’s more like classroom instruction.
The key takeaway from Microsoft Dynamics CRM 2011 Step by Step is the effective presentation of the information in the book. Some require an incremental learning system and this book gives it to them.
5. Programming Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 (Pro-Developer)
By Mike Snyder, Jim Steger, Brad Bosak, Corey O’Brien and Phil Richardson
Helping those with more of the programming side of Microsoft Dynamics, this book goes into coding practices that help you tailor your installation for more efficient practices in manufacturing operations. From customization to integration with other data sources, this book appeals to the needs of those seeking to evolve their CRM past default configurations.
The key takeaway from Programming Microsoft Dynamics CRM 4.0 is the technical depth of the information and how it’s presented to the reader. Each author brings a breadth of knowledge for the more advanced user who’s looking to get more “under the hood.”
No matter your reading style, I think this listing of Microsoft Dynamics books will get you the information and insights from the authors you need to help boost the efficiency of your manufacturing operation for 2012.
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Eric Van Hofwegen
Daniel Villegas
