There are many different customer relationship management software options out there, but none as superior or affordable as Microsoft CRM and you can choose between a locally installed program or you can go online and have Microsoft take care of the hosting.

Microsoft CRM Connected gives you all the benefits of standalone software. Of course, each method has its pros and cons. The biggest problem with hosted software is an ongoing month after month expense that never goes away.

Local hosting has a higher cash outlay up front, but then it dries up and has minimal costs associated with it. It really comes down to which method best fits your budget.

There’s no question that the hosted CRM Connection solution gets you up and running faster and easier, but you also have no control over your software or data that’s stored elsewhere. Connecting to the host can be a perfect solution for smaller businesses that don’t have an IT department but want the benefits of a sophisticated, reliable and flexible CRM package.

Every year more and more companies decide to turn to ASPs or Application Service Providers for their IT infrastructure and to host their applications and there has never been a CRM choice as excellent as Microsoft Dynamics CRM. It’s great that Microsoft offers options to its customers based on individual business needs. The new connected version changes the dynamic completely.

You can access Microsoft CRM Connected from any web connection and you can integrate your Microsoft Outlook on your local server with your Microsoft CRM Connected. It is easy to set up and you can customize it according to your personal needs. It is very flexible and you can also add Microsoft Business Solutions Financials to your integrated system. In fact, there are also some third-party apps that can be integrated. Add as many users as you want.

Whether your business runs 9 to 5 or is open 24/7, you have secure access to your Microsoft CRM online anytime, anywhere. And with your CRM software located on the web, you don’t have to worry about installing software, managing it, or updating it. On the other hand, remember nothing is free and if you are going to be paying for the hosting service. The simple pricing scheme may be easier on your pocket initially, but then it will pay off forever.

Secure software is a big investment for any business and packages as complex, comprehensive and integrated as Microsoft CRM can be a little hard on the budget: between hardware, software and training, your budget can be stretched. But, and this is a big BUT because it’s an investment you can pay off and you don’t have an ongoing monthly expense.

Choosing web-based software can lower your costs, and training is just a matter of the end user. Just open, log in and get to work, no matter where you’re accessing from. So whether you have a business location or locations around the world, you’ll stay connected. On the other hand, you won’t really understand your software or have complete control of your software or data.

I know what you’re thinking: “If I outsource my stuff to Microsoft Dynamics CRM, I don’t have to worry about implementation.” Well, sure, but then again, a good standalone system leaves you just as secure as a hosted site. Things can happen either on a hosted site or independently and the key is to have a good backup system.

So you can really see where they each have their pros and cons. If you connect with Microsoft Dynamics CRM. Or should you go alone? It really depends on your business and your budget. What is certain is that when you invest in Microsoft Dynamics CRM you will never have to worry about your customer relationship software again.