Microsoft acquires toolkit to speed implementation, reduce costs for Microsoft Axapta customers

Microsoft Corp today announced the acquisition of a wizard-based configuration and system setup tool to significantly reduce implementation times and total cost of ownership (TCO) for customers of Microsoft Business Solutions-Axapta.

The implementation productivity tool, called ERP Complete, has been acquired from independent software vendor En`tegrate Software LLC, a fully owned subsidiary of En`tegrate USA Inc and a Microsoft Axapta partner with proven industry success.

Microsoft Axapta is a leading global business management suite optimised for manufacturing, distribution, retail and services industries. According to Nucleus Research Inc, a global provider of return on investment (ROI)-focused research and advisory services, 75% of Microsoft Axapta customers interviewed achieved a positive ROI from their deployments, with an average payback period of 23 months. In the Nucleus survey, Microsoft Axapta compared favourably with other business management software vendors, some of which failed to show ROI regardless of length of deployment. Microsoft expects the implementation tool will further accelerate the strong ROI results demonstrated in the independent study.

Existing customers have already seen tremendous benefits from using the implementation productivity tool. "The ERP Complete technology from En`tegrate is unlike anything I have ever seen. The system itself guides you through each implementation step," said Donovan Dean, director of information technology with Haldex, a global supplier of proprietary products for commercial vehicles. "It has allowed us to cut our implementation budget by 25%."

The implementation tool comprises four major modules that provide extensive automated support in the areas of programme management, software configuration, communication management and a deliverable library of additional resources for Microsoft Axapta partners. Initially Microsoft will provide this tool free to all registered Microsoft Axapta partners in the Microsoft Partner Program.

Microsoft Business Solutions understands that today`s sophisticated business management software buyer demands applications personalised for their business at the lowest possible TCO. "Microsoft Axapta`s unique layered architecture already facilitates personalisation of customers` business processes without the high costs inherent in upgrading customized software," said Mark A Jensen, general manager for Microsoft Business Solutions. "Most business application vendors insist that customers must choose between software flexibility and affordability. Microsoft Axapta delivers both to customers."