MB-300: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Core Functionalities for Finance and Operations
MB-300: Microsoft Dynamics 365 Core Finance and Operations is a foundational certification required for several Dynamics 365 Functional Consultant certifications. This certification is critical for professionals aiming to specialize in enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions through Dynamics 365. It introduces learners to the core capabilities of Finance and Operations apps and prepares them for more specialized tracks.
Certifications Requiring MB-300
To pursue advanced Functional Consultant roles, the MB-300 certification is a mandatory prerequisite. It is a stepping stone to the following certifications:
- MB-310 Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance
- MB-320 Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management Manufacturing
- MB-330 Microsoft Dynamics 365 Supply Chain Management
- MB-340 Microsoft Dynamics 365 Commerce Functional Consultant
- MB-500 Microsoft Dynamics 365: Finance and Operations Apps Developer
Who Should Take This Course
This course is designed for professionals seeking to become Functional Consultants or Developers in Dynamics 365. It is suited for those who are involved in implementing and configuring Finance and Operations applications. Individuals responsible for translating business requirements into system functionality will benefit the most.
Key Learning Objectives
Upon completing the MB-300 course, learners will be equipped to:
- Navigate and utilize the user interface, search tools, and filters
- Work with operational workspaces and manage business documents
- Integrate Power BI into Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations apps
- Understand and apply security roles, create workflows, and run security reports
- Migrate, import, and export data effectively
- Configure organizational and administrative features
- Use Lifecycle Services (LCS) and Business Process Modeler (BPM)
- Conduct user acceptance testing (UAT) and manage test plans
Module 1: Use Common Functionality and Implementation Tools
Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations offers integrated functionality for financial management, supply chain operations, and business intelligence. Understanding its core architecture and modules is essential for configuring and maintaining the system.
Basic UI and Navigation
The user interface of Dynamics 365 is built for intuitive navigation and efficient task execution. Key UI elements include dashboards, tiles, menus, and the navigation pane. Personalization features allow users to customize their views and workspaces.
Dynamics 365 Features and Functionality
Finance and Operations applications are built to automate and optimize business processes. Key features include:
- Role-based workspaces
- Real-time analytics
- Unified platform with Power Platform integration
- Business event handling
- Case and document management systems
Power Platform Tools Integration
Power Platform tools enhance Dynamics 365 capabilities. Common tools include:
- Power BI for business intelligence and visualization
- Power Automate for workflow automation
- Power Apps for custom app development
Operational Workspaces
Operational workspaces provide a task-focused interface for users. These workspaces consolidate data, analytics, and tasks into a single view to improve efficiency. Users can personalize workspaces by pinning tiles, links, and charts.
Business Document Management
Document management in Dynamics 365 allows users to create, store, and manage business documents. Features include template creation, version control, and cloud storage integration.
Use of Queries and Filters
Advanced filtering and queries improve data retrieval and reporting. Users can:
- Create search queries
- Use filters and sorting to narrow results
- Save queries for future use
Labs and Hands-On Activities
Lab: Work with Operational Workspaces
This lab introduces users to operational workspaces, allowing them to personalize dashboards and utilize embedded analytics.
Lab: Perform Searches and Use Filters
Participants practice creating and saving filtered search queries to streamline data access.
Lab: Create Search Queries and Save
Learners develop reusable queries to enhance reporting and data navigation.
Lab: Use Business Document Management
This lab demonstrates creating and managing business document templates and using cloud integration features.
Lab: Configure Address Books and Number Sequences
Address books help manage global contacts, while number sequences are essential for unique identification across records.
Lab: Work with Saved Views and Record Templates
Users will personalize their views, save layouts, and use record templates to accelerate data entry and accuracy.
Key Concepts and Capabilities
Workspaces and Navigation
Workspaces help users concentrate on specific roles and tasks. They combine navigation tiles, analytics, and frequently used reports.
Use of Templates and Saved Views
Templates and saved views improve consistency in data entry and streamline repetitive tasks. Users can define default values and reuse them.
Case Management and Global Address Book
Case management enables tracking and resolution of service issues. The global address book supports centralized contact management across legal entities.
Business Document Management
This functionality simplifies the creation and versioning of documents like invoices and reports. Users can collaborate through cloud services and maintain compliance.
Inquiry and Report Types
The default installation includes a variety of inquiries and standard reports. Users can leverage these for operational, financial, and performance insights.
Power Platform Integration
The seamless integration with Power Platform enables:
- Enhanced reporting with Power BI
- Process automation using Power Automate
- Custom applications through Power Apps
Summary of Learning
At the end of Module 1, learners will have a comprehensive understanding of the following:
- Navigation and personalization of UI
- Utilization of workspaces and document management
- Implementation of filters and saved queries
- Use of Power Platform tools with Dynamics 365
- Configuration of address books and number sequences
The knowledge and hands-on experience gained in this module prepare learners to handle day-to-day tasks and implement foundational features in Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations.
Module 2: Configure Administrative Features and Workflows
Introduction to Administrative Configuration
In this module, learners will gain practical knowledge of configuring administrative tools within Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations. This includes setting up security, organizational structures, workflows, and managing application-level configurations essential for operational continuity and compliance.
Security Implementation in Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations
Security is a foundational aspect of ERP implementation. It ensures that users can only access data and perform tasks relevant to their roles. Security in Dynamics 365 is managed through roles, duties, and privileges.
Role-Based Security
Users are assigned roles based on their job responsibilities. These roles are comprised of duties and privileges that grant access to perform specific tasks. Common roles include system administrator, accountant, and purchasing agent.
Segregation of Duties
Segregation of duties (SoD) helps prevent fraud and errors by ensuring that critical tasks require more than one individual to complete. For instance, the same user cannot create and approve a purchase order without SoD conflicts being flagged.
Security Reports and Audits
Security reports help administrators monitor user access, identify policy violations, and maintain audit trails. These reports include user role assignments, role access by menu item, and SoD conflict reports.
User Role Assignment
Assigning security roles to users is a standard administrative task. This can be managed manually or through automation using templates. Roles must be regularly reviewed to align with organizational changes.
Workflow Management in Dynamics 365
Workflows automate business processes by defining approval hierarchies and conditions for transactions. This reduces manual interventions and ensures compliance with organizational policies.
Configuring Workflows
Workflows are configured in a visual designer. Common workflows include purchase requisitions, purchase orders, expense reports, and vendor invoice approvals. These can include conditional steps and escalations.
Business Events
Business events allow external systems to respond to triggers in Dynamics 365. These are essential for integrating workflows with external services or alerting users of critical actions.
Batch Jobs and Automation
Batch jobs automate repetitive tasks and ensure timely processing. Administrators can schedule jobs such as journal postings, report generation, and data synchronization to run in the background.
Legal Entities and Organizational Hierarchy
Dynamics 365 supports multiple legal entities within a single environment. Each legal entity can be configured independently with specific parameters, currencies, tax rules, and fiscal calendars.
Creating and Managing Legal Entities
Setting up a legal entity involves defining its name, address, tax registration, and financial dimensions. Each entity can also be assigned to an organizational hierarchy for reporting and operational purposes.
Operating Units and Hierarchies
Operating units include business units, departments, cost centers, and value streams. These are structured into hierarchies to reflect the organizational model and streamline reporting.
Organization Hierarchy Management
Organization hierarchies determine how transactions flow and reports are generated. They also influence workflow approvals and security access.
Email and Communication Settings
Dynamics 365 enables email communication for alerts, workflow notifications, and batch job outputs. Configuration involves setting up SMTP servers or integrating with Exchange.
Email Templates
Email templates standardize communication for various system notifications. Templates can include placeholders for dynamic content and support multiple languages.
Power Automate Integration for Workflows
Power Automate extends workflow capabilities by allowing cross-application automation. Dynamics 365 users can trigger flows based on specific conditions or events within the ERP system.
User Options and Personalization
Users can personalize their environment through user options. These settings include language, time zone, date format, and default dashboard preferences.
Labs and Hands-On Exercises
Lab: Create a Batch Job
This exercise guides users in scheduling and managing batch jobs. Learners configure parameters, recurrence patterns, and output options.
Lab: Create an Organization Hierarchy
Participants define an organizational model by setting up departments and cost centers, and associating them with hierarchies.
Lab: Create an Operating Unit
This lab focuses on setting up operating units, such as departments, and linking them to financial reporting structures.
Lab: Configure a New Legal Entity
Users configure a legal entity with all required parameters, including financial dimensions, calendars, and ledger setup.
Lab: Create a Purchase Requisition Workflow
This hands-on activity involves designing and testing a workflow for purchase requisitions, including conditions and approvals.
Lab: Run a Security Report
Participants generate security-related reports to review role assignments and detect any segregation of duties issues.
Lab: Assign Security Roles and Set Up SoD
This lab provides experience in creating users, assigning roles, and configuring segregation of duties policies.
Key Concepts and Capabilities
Implementing Security
Security is based on the role-duties-privileges model. Custom roles can be created to match specific organizational needs. Periodic reviews and audits help ensure compliance.
Designing Workflows
Effective workflow design considers transaction types, approval hierarchies, escalation logic, and automated notifications. Workflows should align with organizational policies and regulatory requirements.
Setting Up Legal Entities
Legal entities require a correct setup to support transactions, financial reporting, and compliance. Entities must be linked to the appropriate tax authorities and regulatory bodies.
Creating and Managing Batch Jobs
Batch jobs automate recurring tasks and ensure background processing. Configuration includes setting recurrence intervals, task sequences, and output destinations.
Managing Organizational Structures
A well-defined organizational structure aids in effective reporting, workflow routing, and access control. Changes to the structure should be managed through controlled procedures.
Integrating Communication Tools
Integrating email and workflow notifications helps users stay informed of pending tasks. Templates ensure consistency and professionalism in all communications.
Utilizing Power Automate
Power Automate allows the creation of custom flows that extend Dynamics 365 workflows across Microsoft services and third-party applications. These flows enhance productivity and system integration.
Configuring User Preferences
User preferences improve the user experience by tailoring the system interface. These include setting default views, language preferences, and regional formats.
Module 3: Manage Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations Data
Introduction to Data Management
Data management in Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations is a crucial aspect that ensures system reliability, accuracy of records, and the smooth transfer of information between modules and external systems. This module focuses on the strategies, tools, and practices used to manage, migrate, and integrate data effectively.
Data Management Concepts
Effective data management involves understanding data entities, templates, and the tools available for importing, exporting, and modifying data. Dynamics 365 includes a robust data management framework that supports bulk data processing and automation.
Data Entities and Their Role
Data entities represent sets of data that are logically grouped for business operations. They are essential for tasks like importing, exporting, and copying data. Entities can be standard or custom and are used across various modules, including finance, inventory, procurement, and human resources.
Configuration Data Templates
Configuration data templates help manage groups of related data entities. Templates simplify the process of exporting and importing configuration data between environments, ensuring consistency and reducing errors during setup or migration.
Identifying Relevant Data Entities
Selecting the correct data entities is crucial for successful data migration. Administrators must analyze business processes and system requirements to determine which entities are needed and how they interact with other parts of the system.
Preparing Data for Migration
Before importing data, it must be cleaned, formatted, and validated. This step involves checking for duplicate records, ensuring mandatory fields are filled, and mapping data correctly to the system’s data structure.
Data Import and Export Techniques
Data can be imported and exported using the data management workspace. This includes creating projects, selecting entities, mapping fields, and executing the process. The system provides status messages and error logs to troubleshoot issues.
Data Management Workspace
The workspace provides tools for creating, scheduling, and monitoring data import and export tasks. Users can define templates, view execution logs, and track data projects to maintain control over the migration process.
Excel Workbook Designer
Excel Workbook Designer allows users to create and edit data templates using Excel. This integration provides a familiar interface for managing data and enables quick updates, data validation, and uploading changes back to Dynamics 365.
Copying Configuration Data Between Legal Entities
Data can be copied between legal entities using the data management framework. This helps maintain consistent settings across organizations, streamlining the setup process and ensuring standardization.
Integration Capabilities in Dynamics 365
Integration refers to the ability of Dynamics 365 to connect and exchange data with other systems. This includes Microsoft tools, third-party applications, and legacy systems through standard connectors and APIs.
Dual-Write Integration
Dual-write is a mechanism that enables real-time synchronization between Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations and the Dataverse. This ensures that data in Finance and Operations is always aligned with other Dynamics 365 applications like Sales and Customer Service.
Using AppSource and ISV Solutions
AppSource provides pre-built solutions developed by independent software vendors. These extensions can be used to add functionality, integrate with other systems, or enhance business processes without custom development.
Managing Integration Projects
Integration projects involve planning, mapping, testing, and deploying data flows between systems. Successful integration requires a clear understanding of business processes, data structures, and system capabilities.
Preparing for Integration
Preparation includes defining integration requirements, selecting appropriate tools, and validating data compatibility. It also involves ensuring that both source and target systems are properly configured.
Integration Testing and Monitoring
Once integrated, systems must be tested for data accuracy, timing, and process continuity. Monitoring tools within Dynamics 365 help track integration status, identify issues, and ensure consistent data flow.
Common Integration Scenarios
Common scenarios include connecting Dynamics 365 with payroll systems, CRM platforms, inventory management tools, and external financial reporting systems. These integrations enhance automation and data consistency.
Best Practices for Data Migration
Best practices include starting with a small data set, validating results, using templates for repeatability, and documenting each step. Testing and stakeholder reviews are essential for a successful migration.
Security in Data Management
Data security is critical during migration and integration. Proper access controls, encryption, and audit trails must be maintained to protect sensitive information and comply with regulations.
Data Governance and Compliance
Governance involves setting policies for data access, usage, and retention. Compliance with industry standards such as GDPR is essential for protecting personal data and avoiding legal risks.
Labs and Hands-On Exercises
Lab: Work with Templates in the Data Management Workspace
This lab provides experience in creating, saving, and reusing configuration templates. Users will define entities, map fields, and execute the import/export processes.
Lab: Export and Import Data
Participants will work through the process of extracting data from the system and importing new or updated records. This includes error resolution and validation steps.
Lab: Copy Configuration Data Between Legal Entities
This exercise demonstrates how to replicate settings and configuration data across different legal entities within the system.
Lab: Use the Excel Workbook Designer
Users learn to design data templates using Excel, input new data, and upload it into Dynamics 365 with real-time validation.
Key Concepts and Capabilities
Understanding Data Entities
Data entities provide a structured way to manage data sets for specific modules. They are central to data import/export and are used in various scenarios such as initial system setup, data correction, and bulk operations.
Creating and Using Templates
Templates streamline repetitive tasks, enhance accuracy, and reduce manual errors. They can be customized for different environments or scenarios.
Importing and Exporting with the Data Management Workspace
This interface provides intuitive controls for managing data projects. Users can schedule tasks, monitor execution, and access logs for troubleshooting.
Synchronizing Data with Dual-Write
Dual-write ensures that data in Finance and Operations is mirrored in other Dynamics 365 applications. It supports consistency and real-time insights across platforms.
Leveraging AppSource Solutions
AppSource simplifies the integration of third-party tools and business extensions. These solutions save time and reduce development efforts.
Managing Secure Data Transfers
Security protocols and best practices must be followed during data transfer. This includes user authentication, data encryption, and restricted access.
Planning for Integration
Successful integration starts with identifying data flows, determining timing, and selecting appropriate tools. Planning reduces risks and improves implementation speed.
Testing and Monitoring Integration
Ongoing testing and real-time monitoring help identify issues early. These tools ensure that integration meets performance and accuracy expectations.
Ensuring Data Accuracy
Clean and validated data is essential for business operations. Tools such as field mapping and transformation rules support accurate data migration.
Maintaining Data Consistency Across Systems
Integration tools and policies should be implemented to prevent discrepancies between systems. Regular audits and reconciliations help maintain consistency.
Module 4: Validate and Support the Solution
Introduction to Solution Validation and Support
Once a solution in Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations is implemented, the next critical phase is validation and support. This phase ensures that the configured system meets business requirements, operates smoothly in a production environment, and continues to evolve as organizational needs grow. This module covers testing, performance analysis, and the use of Microsoft Lifecycle Services (LCS) for solution validation and ongoing support.
Lifecycle Services Overview
Lifecycle Services (LCS) is a Microsoft Azure-based collaboration portal that provides a suite of tools and services to manage the application lifecycle of your Dynamics 365 solution. LCS assists in project planning, environment deployment, system health monitoring, and issue resolution.
Key Features of LCS
LCS includes a variety of features such as project tracking, system diagnostics, asset library management, environment monitoring, and the Business Process Modeler (BPM). These tools provide a centralized platform for consultants, developers, and administrators to manage implementation and support activities.
Creating and Managing LCS Projects
Each implementation begins with the creation of an LCS project. This project acts as a central repository for all activities, including project methodology, environment details, configuration data, and customizations. Multiple stakeholders can access and contribute to the project, ensuring transparency and alignment.
Project Methodologies in LCS
LCS supports various implementation methodologies such as Agile and Sure Step. Users can customize phases, tasks, and deliverables to suit organizational workflows. These methodologies guide the project from initiation through deployment and post-go-live support.
Environments in LCS
LCS allows the deployment and management of multiple environments such as development, test, and production. Each environment has unique roles and serves as a sandbox for development, configuration, and user acceptance testing (UAT).
Managing Environment Topology
Administrators can define and configure the topology of each environment, including application servers, database configurations, and integration settings. This control ensures performance optimization and scalability.
Business Process Modeler (BPM)
The BPM tool in LCS allows teams to model business processes visually. These models help align system configuration with business needs and identify gaps early in the implementation. BPM integrates with Azure DevOps for task tracking and test case management.
Creating Business Process Libraries
BPM allows the creation of reusable libraries that include business process diagrams, descriptions, and linked test cases. These libraries support process standardization and documentation across projects.
Documenting Gaps and Functional Requirements
As part of the validation process, consultants document functional gaps between out-of-the-box capabilities and business requirements. This documentation supports decision-making for customizations or ISV solution adoption.
Using Issue Search in LCS
The Issue Search feature helps identify known issues and hotfixes related to the Dynamics 365 platform. Users can search for errors, view related Knowledge Base articles, and download applicable fixes.
Monitoring System Health
LCS includes monitoring tools that provide real-time insights into system performance. These tools track metrics such as transaction volumes, processing time, and system load to detect anomalies and ensure optimal performance.
Environment Monitoring and Alerts
Administrators can configure alerts for critical events such as failed batch jobs, integration issues, or performance bottlenecks. This proactive monitoring helps maintain system availability and prevent disruptions.
Diagnostic Tools in LCS
LCS provides diagnostic tools that allow users to capture traces, run performance analyses, and monitor batch job execution. These tools assist in identifying root causes of performance issues and guiding remediation efforts.
Service Requests and Support
LCS enables users to submit service requests to Microsoft for technical support. These requests are tracked within the LCS project and can include logs, screenshots, and environment details to accelerate resolution.
Managing Deployable Packages
Customizations and configurations are packaged into deployable units that can be moved between environments. These packages are managed within LCS and validated using code upgrade tools and validation checklists.
Test Planning and Execution
Introduction to Testing in Dynamics 365
Testing is essential to ensure the configured solution functions as expected. It includes unit testing, integration testing, UAT, and regression testing. Proper test planning reduces risks and ensures user satisfaction.
Test Strategy and Planning
A test strategy outlines the scope, objectives, and approach for testing. Planning includes defining test scenarios, preparing test data, assigning roles, and scheduling execution timelines.
Creating Test Cases in Azure DevOps
Azure DevOps is integrated with LCS and used to create and manage test cases. Each test case includes steps, expected outcomes, and test data. DevOps enables tracking test execution, reporting results, and assigning defects.
Regression Suite Automation Tool (RSAT)
RSAT allows automated testing of business processes using test cases from Azure DevOps. It reduces manual testing efforts and supports continuous validation of critical functionality during updates.
Setting Up RSAT
RSAT is installed locally and configured to connect to the Dynamics 365 environment. Test plans are downloaded from DevOps, and execution results are uploaded back for analysis and reporting.
Creating and Executing Automated Tests
Automated tests are created by recording actions within Dynamics 365 and linking them to test cases in Azure DevOps. These tests can be executed repeatedly across environments to verify system behavior.
User Acceptance Testing (UAT)
UAT involves validating the system from the end-user perspective. Testers execute real-world scenarios to ensure the system meets business needs. Feedback collected during UAT drives final configuration and refinements.
Managing Test Plans
Test plans organize test cases by feature, module, or user role. Plans define the order of execution, dependencies, and pass/fail criteria. Properly managed test plans streamline test efforts and ensure comprehensive coverage.
Tracking and Resolving Defects
During testing, defects are logged in Azure DevOps with detailed descriptions, screenshots, and reproduction steps. These defects are assigned to developers, tracked through resolution, and retested before closure.
Analyzing System Performance
Performance Testing in Dynamics 365
Performance testing evaluates how the system handles user loads, transaction volumes, and processing speed. It identifies performance bottlenecks and ensures the system can support business operations at scale.
Types of Performance Testing
Types include load testing, stress testing, and scalability testing. Each type serves different goals, such as verifying peak load capacity, evaluating stability under pressure, and assessing resource scalability.
Trace Parser for Performance Analysis
Trace Parser is a tool that captures system traces during execution and analyzes performance metrics. It identifies slow-running queries, bottlenecks, and inefficient code paths.
Running Traces and Analyzing Results
Users initiate trace sessions in LCS, perform operations in Dynamics 365, and analyze results using Trace Parser. The tool highlights performance issues and suggests optimizations.
Resource Monitoring Tools
Azure provides tools such as Application Insights and Log Analytics to monitor system resources. These tools track CPU usage, memory consumption, and service availability for cloud-hosted environments.
Optimization Recommendations
Based on performance data, administrators can optimize configurations, reassign resources, adjust batch schedules, or refine code. These improvements enhance user experience and system reliability.
Go-Live Preparation and Support
Planning the Go-Live
Go-live marks the transition from test to production. Planning includes final data migration, user training, system validation, and stakeholder sign-off. A go-live checklist ensures all tasks are completed.
Go-Live Checklist
The checklist includes items such as completing UAT, resolving open issues, verifying system configurations, training end users, and confirming backup strategies.
Executing the Go-Live
On go-live day, activities include switching over to production, migrating final data, updating security roles, and activating integrations. A support team monitors system performance and user activity.
Post Go-Live Support
Support continues after deployment to resolve user issues, answer questions, and fine-tune system behavior. A stabilization period allows a gradual transition to steady-state operations.
FastTrack Program
Microsoft’s FastTrack program provides guidance and best practices for go-live readiness. It includes workshops, assessments, and resources to support a smooth deployment.
Knowledge Transfer to IT Teams
Internal IT teams are trained on administration, monitoring, and troubleshooting tasks. Knowledge transfer ensures that the organization can independently manage and maintain the system.
Creating Support Plans
Support plans define roles, response times, escalation paths, and issue resolution procedures. Clear plans improve service quality and reduce downtime.
Final Thoughts
The successful implementation and maintenance of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations requires more than just technical know-how—it demands a deep understanding of business processes, strategic planning, and the ability to adapt to evolving organizational needs. Through this comprehensive course, you’ve explored the foundational pillars that support a robust Dynamics 365 deployment:
- System Setup and Configuration – Ensuring the environment, legal entities, and organizational structures are correctly established.
- Data Management – Handling data with precision, from migration and import/export to integration and validation.
- Solution Validation and Support – Using Lifecycle Services, Azure DevOps, and testing tools to ensure quality, performance, and sustainability.
Each module has emphasized the importance of planning, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Whether you’re configuring templates, automating test cases, or analyzing system performance, your role as a consultant or system administrator directly contributes to the long-term success of your organization’s ERP solution.
Continuing the Journey
Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a continually evolving platform. Staying current with new features, updates, and best practices is essential. Consider the following next steps:
- Explore Advanced Topics – Such as reporting with Power BI, AI-driven insights, and advanced security.
- Pursue Certification – Validate your expertise by earning the official Microsoft Certified: Dynamics 365: Finance and Operations Apps Functional Consultant Associate badge.
- Engage with the Community – Participate in forums, webinars, and user groups to share knowledge and stay informed.
The Goal: Business Impact
Ultimately, the goal of every Dynamics 365 implementation is to drive business value—improving efficiency, accuracy, collaboration, and agility. With the skills acquired in this course, you are now better equipped to deliver that impact, enabling your organization to make informed decisions, optimize operations, and achieve strategic goals.