Who will win in the fight between Microsoft Dynamics vs HubSpot? We marketers will!
When comparing Microsoft Dynamics vs HubSpot, there are several key differences that set them apart.
Before we dive into the differences, I'm going to address three myths about the platforms.
Then, I'll talk about the four key differences between the two platforms.
Let's get started!
Three Myths about HubSpot and Microsoft Dynamics
1️⃣"Since the Microsoft suite is native to Dynamics, it has more seamless functionality than HubSpot."
This is more of a gross generalization. Yes, native software works well in its own environment. But HubSpot also integrates very well with the suite of Microsoft tools, particularly in the way it interacts with .XLS/.XLSX files (Excel). There are delimiters, data field reconciliation, and exporting back into Excel if you so desire.
Keep in mind that Dynamics is a separate license from Microsoft 365, so if you are looking to deploy it in your organization, you need to buy two separate licenses.
If you are looking for functionality beyond either HubSpot or Microsoft Dynamics, there are app stores for both CRMs. Most are free with a subscription option for more features.
The real question you should ask about functionality is -- how we does it function? Bolt-on functionality doesn't always look anything like seamless. If you compare both options in a trial, you'll know right away which one is actually seamless.
2️⃣"Both are expensive."
HubSpot CRM offers a free version that includes core CRM functionality, making it an attractive option for small businesses, nonprofits, and startups with limited budgets. It also offers paid plans with additional features for more advanced needs, including additional contacts, more sales sequences (automation), data quality, and a customer portal, to name a few.
Microsoft Dynamics CRM, however, tends to be a little bit more expensive (but nothing compared to platforms like Salesforce) and is often favored by larger enterprises due to its scalability and extensive customization options. Additionally, businesses can bundle add-ons to their CRM to help reduce costs.
3️⃣"There are other alternatives out there for customer relationship management (CRM)."
We have been in situations or companies that have used other platforms before, and boy, did we not have fun at all.
Sharpspring, Salesforce, or using good ol' spreadsheets, Story has seen the full spectrum of CRM choices.
The most notable downfalls of these CRMs:
- lack of data credibility
- the user interface is clunky/sales people avoid using it
- crashes
- downtime (planned or otherwise)
- expense, or lack thereof, in that sometimes you get what you pay for
- Core functionality that doesn't meet market standards
Notable companies who use HubSpot:
GoFundMe, Checkwriters, Coca-Cola, The Royal Mint, Aaxis
Notable companies who use Microsoft Dynamics:
Dell, Ashley Furniture, Driscoll’s, Patagonia, Delta Air Lines
Before we dive into the four major distinctions of HubSpot vs Microsoft Dynamics, let's consider what makes them similar (and honestly, close to other CRMs as well):
- 24/7 support
- Mobile apps/app store
- Reporting and analytics with various charts and scorecards
- Financial management/forecasting
- Customization
- Software as a service platform (SaaS)
- Business-agnostic, meaning that it can serve small, medium, or large businesses with multiple teams and contacts
Here are four major distinctions to consider:
1️⃣ User Interface and Ease of Use
HubSpot CRM is known for its intuitive and user-friendly interface. It provides a clean and straightforward layout, making it easy for users to navigate and quickly adapt to the platform.
On the other hand, Microsoft Dynamics CRM offers a robust and feature-rich interface that can be more complex and require more training to fully utilize.
If you're familiar with Windows 7/Microsoft 2013 user interface, you'll feel right at home with Dynamics.
2️⃣ Integration and Ecosystem
Both HubSpot CRM and Microsoft Dynamics CRM offer integration capabilities, but their ecosystems differ. HubSpot CRM integrates seamlessly with other HubSpot products like Marketing Hub and Sales Hub, providing a comprehensive suite of tools for inbound marketing and sales.
Microsoft Dynamics CRM integrates well with other Microsoft products, such as Office 365 and SharePoint, offering a more unified experience within the Microsoft ecosystem.
Keep in mind about those separate licenses, however...
3️⃣Focus and Target Market
HubSpot CRM is designed with a strong emphasis on inbound marketing and sales. It focuses on lead generation, customer engagement, and building relationships through personalized interactions.
Microsoft Dynamics CRM, on the other hand, offers a broader range of features and is suitable for companies with complex sales processes, extensive customer service needs, and larger teams.
4️⃣ Customization and Flexibility
Microsoft Dynamics CRM is known for its extensive customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the CRM to their specific needs. It offers a wide range of customization capabilities, including advanced workflows, complex data structures, and integration with external systems.
HubSpot CRM, while offering some level of customization, is more streamlined and may have limitations in terms of flexibility and customization complexity. The addition of custom objects has boosted HubSpot's flexibility so that these differences are becoming mute.
Which Platform Should Your Business Choose?
We're biased when we say that we love HubSpot.
But while that may be the case, it's essential to assess your business requirements, budget, and goals to determine which CRM system aligns best with your needs. If your salespeople are comfortable using Microsoft 365, then they may feel more at home with Dynamics. We know all about how when salespeople feel confident in the consolidation of all their activities, they sell better.
Evaluating these key differences can help you make an informed decision that suits what makes your company unique and different in the marketplace.
