How can cross-training into Dynamics AX give your ERP career a boost?

ERP solutions can be compared to athletes running a marathon. We’ve seen an intense beginning from your Oracle and SAPs, sprinting right from the get-go. However, as the 20th mile is reached, their speed begins to slow and then Microsoft shows up: a master of the long distance race, overtaking on the sprint finish and winning the race. 

This is a perfect analogy to illustrate the current growth of Microsoft Dynamics AX; just as the elite SAP and Oracle plateau, Microsoft Dynamics AX has overtaken like Usain Bolt on Red Bull. This blog highlights the possibilities for ERP specialists switching over to Microsoft Dynamics AX to boost their career prospects.

Understand the opportunity

So why consider cross-training into Microsoft Dynamics AX? First, we will have to forget the myth that cross-training is the same as switching from professional rugby to football. It won’t be a fresh start, but a sideways step that will decrease the amount of competition and obstacles in your path to career success.

Imagine you’re a Functional Consultant being asked what is the most valuable thing about your experience? Would you say it’s your knowledge of a particular ERP? Most likely not. No consultancy wants a product specialist with a narrow knowledge of a specific technology.  

They’d prefer employees with an insightful understanding of business processes, business consulting and implementation methodologies. Building these skills requires years but it takes just months to learn a new system.  

You should also consider that Microsoft rarely fails. As the king of the jungle, Microsoft usually gets what it wants (think Xbox, SharePoint and Office!). With their trusted reputation, their desire to win, and their huge investment, it’s almost certain that Microsoft Dynamics AX will pave the way as the ERP market continues to evolve. Considering this, why not step in to a promising market with limited candidate supply but soaring demand?

Practicalities

You’re probably thinking that as a principle this sounds great, but how do you actually go about cross-training? Well, this can be done in two main ways:

Firstly, some top organizations who use Cognitive Group for their Microsoft Dynamics recruitment provide comprehensive cross-training programs for people with great business consulting skills. If you have experience as a Finance, T&L, or HR & Payroll consultant from other ERPs, some companies will cross-train you into Microsoft Dynamics AX via a one-to-one mentorship plan with experienced specialists and sponsored courses with Microsoft themselves. These programmes do not involve a salary drop as feared by many!

On the other hand, you could take the initiative yourself! Microsoft has a list of courses designed to help you gain certification in several modules which would undoubtedly make you attractive to Microsoft Dynamics recruiters.

In summary, as Microsoft Dynamics AX continues its growth and candidate supply struggles to keep up, employers are now considering talent from other ERP backgrounds who could cross-train into Microsoft Dynamics AX. So if your career marathon has hit the proverbial ‘wall’ in a stagnating and competitive ERP market, get your AX trainers on, and win the race!

Get in touch with us if you’d like to discuss cross-training, or any other recruitment issues you may have:  

Web: http://www.cognitive-group.com

Email: info@cognitive-group.com

Tel: 0203 587 7772

EU Toll-Free: 00800 4433 2929

Cognitive Group specialise in Microsoft Dynamics jobs and recruitment focusing on the following technologies: Microsoft Dynamics AX, Microsoft Dynamics CRM and other roles in the Microsoft Stack.