Dynamics 365 Industry Training Series - Distribution

Meeting Purpose

Deep dive into Dynamics 365 solutions for distribution companies, focusing on industry-specific terminology, software capabilities, and AI integration.

Key Takeaways

• Distribution companies are crucial intermediaries in the supply chain, connecting manufacturers to retailers/consumers
• Dynamics 365 offers comprehensive solutions for distribution, including inventory management, MRP, EDI, and e-commerce integration
• Microsoft Copilot enhances D365 with AI-driven capabilities for customer service, decision-making, demand forecasting, and supply chain optimization
• Key differentiators: multi-country support, flexible costing methods, automated planning tools, and robust e-commerce connectors (e.g., Shopify)

Topics

Distribution Company Overview

• Acts as intermediary between manufacturers and retailers/consumers
• Ensures efficient product transportation and delivery
• Additional services: inventory management, 3PL warehousing, logistics planning
• Global trade stats: China (largest exporter), US/China/Germany (leading importers)
• Top-traded goods: oil/gas, electronic equipment, machinery

Key Terminology in Distribution

• Supply chain: network of entities involved in product lifecycle
• Logistics: coordination of transportation and storage
• Inventory management: overseeing goods flow
• Category management: grouping items for easier management
• Attributes: tracking item characteristics (size, color, weight)
• Forwarding: multi-national import/export services
• MRP (Material Requirements Planning): demand-based purchasing
• WMS (Warehouse Management System): barcode scanning, picking/putting away
• EDI (Electronic Data Interchange): standardized business document exchange

Dynamics 365 Features for Distribution

• Detailed item records with marketing info, shelf locations, sales/purchase order tracking
• Flexible costing methods: FIFO, LIFO, average, standard
• Unit of measure versatility
• Inventory planning: reorder policies, safety stock, lead times
• Automated MRP via requisition worksheets
• Drop shipment and special order capabilities
• E-commerce integration (e.g., Shopify connector)
• Multi-module approach: CRM, ERP, customer service, marketing, etc.

Distribution Channels and Software Solutions

• Types: direct (e.g., brewery to consumer), indirect (multiple partners)
• Shipping carriers: standard (UPS, FedEx) and LTL (trucking services)
• E-commerce platforms
• ERP, TMS, SCM, WMS, CRM systems

Microsoft Copilot for Distribution

• Customer service enhancements: real-time order/inventory info
• Decision-making support for purchases and procurement
• Demand forecasting using historical data and market trends
• Order processing automation
• Supply chain optimization: identifying bottlenecks, suggesting improvements

Next Steps

• Reach out to Chris Wolf or Carrie Saunders for further questions or inquiries
• Explore Dynamics 365 modules relevant to distribution companies
• Investigate Copilot integration possibilities for specific distribution processes
• Consider Azure Synapse and Power BI for advanced data analytics and visualization in logistics/supply chain