Hubspot to Dynamics 365 (Great Plains): HubSpot Solutions Partners are the Key

Integrating HubSpot with Microsoft Dynamics 365 can seem like the perfect combination for businesses aiming to synchronize marketing and sales operations. On the surface, the integration promises seamless data sharing, improved collaboration, and a unified view of customer relationships. However, for many businesses—especially those without experienced HubSpot administrators—the integration process often reveals significant challenges and frustrations.

In this blog, we’ll explore the common pain points businesses face when integrating HubSpot with Dynamics 365. More importantly, we’ll highlight why working with a HubSpot Solutions Partner can turn potential setbacks into a strategic advantage.

Common Shortfalls of the HubSpot to Dynamics 365 Integration

1. Complex Setup Process

For many unexperienced HubSpot admins, the setup process for integrating HubSpot with Dynamics 365 is far from intuitive. Common challenges include:

• Mapping Fields Incorrectly: Dynamics 365 and HubSpot use different terminology and data structures. Mismatched fields can lead to incomplete or incorrect data transfers.
• Authentication and Permissions Issues: Configuring proper API access and permissions between the two platforms can be daunting without technical expertise.
• Customizing Workflows: Dynamics 365 often requires more technical customization than HubSpot, making the integration complex for admins used to HubSpot's user-friendly interface.

The Result: Businesses waste valuable time troubleshooting issues or settling for partial integrations that don’t meet their needs.

2. Data Sync Issues

Once integration is live, maintaining accurate and consistent data between the two platforms becomes a significant hurdle. Common complaints include:

• Duplicate Records: Without careful planning, HubSpot and Dynamics 365 can generate duplicate leads, contacts, or deals.
• Sync Failures: Changes in one system may not reflect in the other, leading to gaps in customer information.
• Data Overload: Without proper filtering, unnecessary data from one system can flood the other, overwhelming users.

The Result: Teams end up relying on outdated or incomplete data, reducing the effectiveness of both platforms.

3. Limited Real-Time Synchronization

HubSpot admins often expect seamless, real-time updates between the two platforms. However, the reality is:

• Batch Syncs: The integration may rely on periodic batch syncs instead of continuous updates, leading to delays.
• Missed Opportunities: Delayed updates can result in sales teams acting on outdated information or marketing teams targeting the wrong prospects.

The Result: Missed opportunities to close deals or nurture leads due to out-of-sync data.

4. Misaligned Reporting Capabilities

Both HubSpot and Dynamics 365 offer robust reporting tools, but integrating them effectively is a challenge. Complaints include:

• Disjointed Dashboards: Metrics from HubSpot and Dynamics often remain siloed, making it difficult to generate holistic reports.
• Manual Workarounds: Admins frequently resort to exporting data manually to combine insights, which is time-consuming and prone to error.

The Result: Inconsistent reporting undermines strategic decision-making.

5. Custom Requirements and Scalability

For businesses with unique processes, the default integration often falls short. Unexperienced admins struggle with:

• Custom Objects and Fields: Dynamics 365 often uses custom objects that require advanced configurations in HubSpot.
• Scalability Challenges: As businesses grow, maintaining and scaling the integration requires ongoing attention and expertise.

The Result: Admins become overwhelmed, and the integration doesn’t evolve with the business.

Why Use a HubSpot Solutions Partner?

1. Expertise in HubSpot and Integrations

HubSpot Solutions Partners specialize in configuring complex integrations like HubSpot and Dynamics 365. They bring deep knowledge of both platforms, ensuring:

• Accurate field mapping.
• Proper API setup and permissions.
• Advanced customization to align with business processes.

A Solutions Partner eliminates guesswork, saving time and ensuring the integration works as intended from day one.

2. Streamlined Data Management

Solutions Partners help businesses avoid common data sync pitfalls by:

• Implementing data hygiene practices to prevent duplicates.
• Configuring smart rules for syncing only relevant data.
• Ensuring consistent, real-time updates between the platforms.

This approach ensures that both systems operate in harmony, providing reliable, up-to-date information.

3. Unified Reporting and Analytics

By leveraging a Solutions Partner’s expertise, businesses can:

• Combine HubSpot and Dynamics data into cohesive dashboards.
• Set up automated reporting workflows.
• Gain actionable insights that drive informed decisions.

This eliminates the need for manual data exports and provides a comprehensive view of performance metrics.

4. Tailored Solutions for Scalability

Every business is unique, and a Solutions Partner tailors the integration to your specific needs. They help:

• Configure custom objects and workflows.
• Optimize the integration for future growth.
• Provide ongoing support to adapt the integration as your business evolves.

This ensures that your investment in HubSpot and Dynamics continues to deliver value as your business scales.

5. Training and Support

For teams new to HubSpot or Dynamics 365, a Solutions Partner provides training to:

• Help users understand how the integration works.
• Empower teams to use both platforms effectively.
• Address issues proactively with expert support.

This reduces the learning curve and helps teams hit the ground running.

Conclusion: Partnering for Success

While integrating HubSpot with Dynamics 365 offers immense potential, the process is not without its challenges—especially for businesses without experienced HubSpot admins. The shortfalls in setup, data management, real-time synchronization, and reporting can hinder your ability to achieve the full benefits of both platforms.

That’s where a HubSpot Solutions Partner comes in. With their expertise, tailored solutions, and ongoing support, they ensure that your integration is not just functional but optimized for your unique business needs. By partnering with experts, you can unlock the true potential of both HubSpot and Dynamics 365, driving efficiency, alignment, and growth.