Part of the challenge Dynamics AX installations face today is how best to implement the latest version of AX with all the exciting new functionality.  The new functionality inside AX is powerful, but often times is restricted not by the application itself, but by the requirements to have the correct Microsoft infrastructure in place.  To utlitize the dashboards, role centers, and portal in AX2009, you must also have a defined sharepoint services environment deployed, along with SRS, to support this AX functionality.  Many companies to not possess the skill set to install and support this type of infrastructure from the Microsoft stack, so they miss out on the functionality!

Don’t let your company fall into this trap.  Before moving down the route to new functionality, ask questions about the requirements for supporting infrastructure outside of Dynamics AX.  Plan for it, either with your Partner, your own IT resources, or a combination of both, to make sure the stack can not only be deployed but also supported.  The skill set for adminstering and maintaining AX does not always overlap with the skill sets for the Microsoft stack, so understanding this upfront can save you headaches later.  Plan accordingly, prioritize, and invest in the knowledge around the Microsoft stack, your Dynamics AX users will thank you later!