Microsoft is on track to release the Dynamics 365 by Nov. 1. This is the service that the tech company has been touting as advanced technology that can significantly augment its users' business agility.

For the uninitiated, Dynamics 365 refers to the Azure-based combination of customer relationship management (CRM) and enterprise resource planning (ERP) services.

At the core of this solution is what Microsoft simply calls as Intelligence, which is actually constituted by advanced analytics and machine learning technologies. It powers the apps within Microsoft's cloud service that provides a range of functions for business such as sales automation, operations and customer service.

According to Microsoft, Dynamics 365 is specifically designed to improve manufacturing and supply chain execution. It can also address the efficiency requirements for field service operations and sales through the delivery of exceptional customer experience.

Microsoft initially planned to roll out Dynamics 365 in July as indicated in its previous briefings of reseller partners. This, however, entailed mere repackaging and update of existing capabilities such as Dynamics CRM and Project Madeira. The final Dynamics 365 was delayed because Microsoft has built new softwares within the bundle. For instance, there is the case of the Financials component as well as the Customer Insights app. The 100 new apps underscore the extent of the changes made in order to expand the Dynamics 365 capabilities.

Industry observers consider the Dynamics 365 launch as a response to Salesforce's increasing use of artificial intelligence (AI) in its own array of business solutions. Specifically, one can turn to a recent Tech Times report citing Salesforce continuous development of the so-called Einstein AI technology to power its CRM service. It is also backed by a series of tech acquisitions, which involve startups known for their respective AI initiatives such as Metamind and RelatedIQ.

Microsoft itself seems to be taking on Salesforce directly. In a report published by Fortune, the company maintained that it is building a smarter AI-based CRM/ERP service because it has developed its own technology in-house for several years, indicating it is more seamless and effective. Microsoft scoffed at Salesforce AI initiative, citing that the company is merely cobbling together technologies it acquired through its recent acquisitions.

It is, of course, not yet clear whether Dynamics 365 will indeed be as well-put-together solution for business users as Microsoft claims it will be. One should remember that the company is also cobbling together in Dynamics 365 different product lines, which have emerged from acquired companies in the past. In all fairness, these products are mostly developed using the AX code.

Dynamics 365 is available to users willing to pay a $70 monthly subscription.