What is the Difference Between CRM Workflow vs Microsoft Flow

CRM Workflow and Microsoft flow although seem similar and fall into similar categories. They are used to increase the efficiency of an organization and manage workflows. This is why they are used in administrative tasks by several companies. Most of the tools provided in these software(s) seem similar however they have distinct uses that help achieve different functions in an organization.

Many of us might have used these solutions to automate our business processes. Whether it is Workflow or Microsoft Flow, both are a type of Microsoft CRM system. Both the systems help manage work operations while giving time to think on expanding business and focusing on more opportunities. Before we get into finding out the differences between them, let’s first understand what each of these is.

Microsoft Flow

It is a cloud-based service by Microsoft that helps automate workflows across web-based services. Flow helps you by taking your burden of performing daily tasks that could be either sending a mail or managing customer data while you spend time on other business tasks that are beyond a computer’s capabilities. Flow comes with different Microsoft Dynamics 365 plans.

CRM Workflows

A workflow is a tool that has been in the market for a long time. Workflows can be triggered manually or automatically in several ways. It can either run in the background and or create a background task.

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CRM Workflow VS Microsoft Flow

Following is a breakdown of the differences between CRM Workflow and Microsoft Flow.

• Workflow is limited to Microsoft Dynamics 365 whereas Microsoft flow can be used across various Microsoft applications and other third-party apps like MailChimp, WordPress, Survey Monkey, etc. Hence Microsoft Flow is a comprehensive tool.
• Both the software(s) work with online and on-premise Dynamics systems. Workflows are available with any Microsoft Dynamics 365 whereas Microsoft Flow comes with office 365. Additional tools are also available that can be bought based on need and volume of use.
• CRM Workflow can be modified to automate Microsoft Dynamics 365. It works on triggers that are initiated by Microsoft Dynamics. These include functions like Update, Insert, & Delete, etc. Other functions that Workflow can perform include updating existing customer records, create a new record, change them, send an email, apply if/then logic, and even trigger a new workflow.
• Microsoft flow comes with a library of templates (pre-built functions) that you can use or create your functions to initiate a process from scratch.
• Flow also allows you to trigger a schedule based on some pre-defined inputs or schedule a flow to run at a particular time. It also gives you the option to set pre-defined actions based on the application you are working with.
• If you are stuck between deciding which one is better for your organization. Here is a little summary for you that will help you choose what is better.
• If you have your data, trigger, and action functions within 365 CRM, workflow is the one for you. However, if you have your actions scheduled and need to interact with other applications outside 365 CRM, Microsoft Flow is the one for you.