How do I migrate from Microsoft Dynamics to Zoho CRM?

Plan the data model first, then move data in order: users, accounts, contacts, leads, deals, products, then activities, notes and attachments, keeping Dynamics IDs to rebuild links. Zoho CRM's migration tools and imports can handle the records, but workflows, plugins and business rules must be rebuilt. Run a test migration before the final cut-over.

Dynamics and Zoho CRM organise data similarly, but not identically. Dynamics opportunities map to Zoho deals, accounts and contacts map closely, and custom entities become custom modules. Option sets become picklists, and owners must match Zoho users. Write a mapping sheet for every field you keep, and drop fields nobody has used in years.

Export from Dynamics with its built-in export, the API or a data tool, keeping the record GUIDs. Import into Zoho in dependency order so lookups resolve: accounts before contacts, contacts before deals. Store the Dynamics ID in a custom field on each Zoho record. Zoho's migration options may support Dynamics directly, so check the current help page, but large or custom systems usually need a scripted approach.

Logic does not migrate. Dynamics workflows, Power Automate flows, plugins and business rules must be rebuilt as Zoho workflow rules, Blueprints and Deluge functions. Run a full test migration into a sandbox or trial, have users check their own records, then freeze changes in Dynamics and run the final load. Train users on the new layouts before go-live.

If you would rather have this handled for you, Flowpeak can map, migrate and rebuild your Dynamics processes in Zoho CRM. CRM setups start from USD 500, with the migration quoted after we review your data volume and customisations. Most CRM setups are live within two weeks, and migrations with heavy customisation take longer.

Written by Flowpeak, a Zoho implementation partner. Zoho pricing and features change, so confirm current details on the official Zoho site. Free checklists | Ask us a question