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Project vs. Packaged Dynamics 365 Implementations: Which Approach Is Right for Your Business?

Digital transformation is no longer optional for Canadian businesses looking to scale, compete, and thrive. But when it comes to implementing a modern ERP or CRM system like Dynamics 365, the path you choose can make all the difference. At Catapult, we now offer two distinct approaches: Project-Based Implementations and our new Slingshot Implementation Packages.

If you’re evaluating your options, here’s what you need to know about each approach—and how to make the right choice for your business.

What Is a Project-Based Dynamics 365 Implementation?

A project-based implementation is the traditional route for businesses with complex, unique requirements. This approach is fully customized to your organization, involving deep process discovery, design, configuration, and development. It’s ideal for companies with specialized workflows, regulatory needs, or integration requirements that demand a tailored solution.

Key Features:

  • Customization: Extensive configuration and development to fit your unique business processes.
  • Scope: In-depth workshops, process mapping, and stakeholder alignment.
  • Timeline: Medium to long—often several months to over a year, depending on complexity.
  • Cost: Higher, due to longer timelines and resource involvement.
  • IT Involvement: Significant, with internal teams engaged throughout design and deployment.
  • Scalability: Highly flexible, able to evolve with your business over time.

Best For:
Organizations with complex operations, industry-specific needs, or those requiring deep integrations and custom workflows.

What Are Dynamics 365 Implementation Packages?

Catapult’s Slingshot Implementation Packages offer a new, streamlined way to launch Dynamics 365. These are pre-configured, purpose-built solutions based on our extensive experience with Canadian mid-sized businesses. Each package is designed to deliver rapid deployment, predictable costs, and early business value—without the lengthy discovery and customization phases.

Key Features:

  • Curated Tiers: Choose from packages built for real-world business scenarios, not just a set of options.
  • Speed: Go live in weeks, not months, with industry-standard best practices already configured.
  • Cost: Lower and predictable, with transparent pricing and reduced implementation effort.
  • Customer Effort: Minimal—focus on data migration, user adoption, and minor process adjustments.
  • IT Involvement: Low, as the system is largely pre-configured and SaaS-based.
  • Scalability: Flexible and future-ready, with options to add modules as your business grows.

Best For:
Businesses seeking a fast, cost-effective ERP launch, willing to adapt to proven processes and focus on early value realization.

Comparing the Approaches: Which Is Right for You?

Project Implementation Slingshot Implementation Packages
Outcomes Fully customized, optimized Pre-configured MVP, rapid value
Ideal Use Case Complex, unique requirements Fast launch, standard processes
Implementation Time Months to over a year Weeks to a few months
Customization High Low
Cost Higher, variable Lower, predictable
Customer Effort Medium-high Low-medium
IT Involvement Medium-high Low
Change Management Critical Moderate
Scalability Highly flexible Flexible, may require add-ons
Risk & Uncertainty Higher, scope creep possible Lower, controlled scope

How to Choose the Right Dynamics 365 Implementation Approach

Choose a Project Implementation if:
Your business has complex, unique processes, regulatory requirements, or needs deep integration with other systems. You’re ready to invest in a tailored solution that will scale and evolve with your organization.

Choose a Slingshot Implementation Package if:
You want to get up and running quickly, with predictable costs and proven best practices. You’re willing to adapt to standardized processes and focus on rapid time to value.

Ready to Transform Your Business?

Catapult now offers both approaches—so you can choose the Dynamics 365 implementation that fits your goals, timeline, and budget.

Not sure which path is right for you? Contact Catapult for a consultation and let our experts guide you to the best-fit solution for your digital transformation.

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