Microsoft 2025 Wave 1 Update: What Nonprofits Need to Know.

Microsoft’s 2025 Wave 1 update for Dynamics 365 and Power Platform brings new features from April to September 2025. These updates are automatic and can’t be postponed, so it’s important to prepare in advance to avoid disruptions.

Last updated 5 February, 2025

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Why You Need to Prepare

Unlike a standard Windows update, Wave 1 isn’t just a simple download—you can’t delay or opt out. If your nonprofit relies on Dynamics 365 for daily operations, preparing ahead of time ensures a smooth transition without system disruptions. 

Key Dates

By 31st March 2025 (Canada) and 7th April 2025 (NZ and Australia), your system will automatically upgrade. From another country? Check Microsoft’s full release schedule here. 

New Features for Nonprofits

These updates will help nonprofits save time, improve donor engagement, and manage finances more efficiently. 

  • Smart Email Suggestions – Copilot recommends email templates, helping nonprofits communicate faster. 
  • Easy Customer & Donor Management – Track leads, nurture relationships, and grow fundraising efforts with Dynamics 365 Contact Center. 
  • Works Without Internet – Field workers can access important info offline, useful for remote nonprofit projects (D365 Field Service).  
  • AI Summaries – Copilot gives short, easy-to-read summaries of donor records, reports, or case files. 
  • Faster Invoice Processing – AI automatically matches bills to purchase orders, reducing admin time. 
  • Better Automation & AI Assistants – Power Automate and Copilot Studio help nonprofits streamline tasks like sending reminders, processing forms, and managing volunteers. 

How to Prepare for the Update

Since these changes roll out automatically, here’s what you need to do to minimise disruptions: 

✔ Update Proactively – Start testing the Wave 1 updates early (Feb 2025) to check for compatibility issues and bugs.  
✔ Check System Performance – Ensure integrations, workflows, and automations work smoothly post-update.  
✔ Review Licensing & Access – Some features may require additional licenses. Adjust as needed.  
✔ Consider Expert Support – If your CRM is critical for daily operations, expert assistance can help prevent issues, and disruptions to your work.  

Expert Support from Xtreme Productivity

Want a hassle-free update? Here’s how we can help: 

Step 1: We’ll back up your data to ensure nothing is lost. 

Step 2: We’ll implement the Wave 1 update and check for system compatibility. 

Step 3: We’ll test the updates to make sure nothing is broken 

Step 4: We’ll make the changes live on your system 

For more information on the 2025 Wave 1 Release plan, read Microsoft’s blog here 

 

Avoid disruptions and stay ahead

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