Microsoft Unveils ERP For Midsized Retailers

Microsoft on Monday introduced a version of its Dynamics CRM and ERP software geared specifically for midsized, specialty retailers.

Dynamics AX for Retail features numerous modules that allow retailers to integrate point-of-sale, store management, supply chain, and finance into a single platform.

"Our goal is to realize the Dynamics Business vision in the retail industry," said Crispin Read, general manager for Microsoft's Dynamics ERP, in a statement.

"Because we have enabled a truly connected retailer experience through a single, end-to-end Microsoft provided solution, customers can lower the total cost of ownership, reduce complexity and improve the accuracy of information, all of which is vital in today's evolving retail environment," said Crispin.

Dynamics AX for Retail, which Microsoft announced at the National Retail Federation's annual convention in New York City, also offers direct integration with other Microsoft products, including SharePoint Server, SQL Server, and Windows 7.

One company that's already kicking the tires on Dynamics AX for Retail is HDS Retail, which operates shops at major airports in the U.S. and abroad.

HDS officials said the software gives the company the ability to improve information sharing without taking on major development projects. "A big advantage of Microsoft Dynamics AX for Retail is that we're getting the pieces we need right out of the box," said HDS Retail CFO Vadim Motlik, in a statement.

"Those pieces work seamlessly with Microsoft SharePoint and other products like Microsoft Office in an interface that's familiar to our users. This eliminates the need for back-end customizations, eliminates duplication of data and effort, and reduces training times," said Motlik.

Microsoft said it expects to ship a final version of Dynamics AX for Retail in the summer of 2010. Pricing details were not immediately available.

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