NORFOLK, Va. -

Dominion Dealer Solutions and Microsoft are teaming up to build a dealer management system designed to help dealers and OEMs boost profits and revenue, improve customer experience and foster operational efficiencies.

Microsoft Dynamics AX will be the foundation of the new tool, which will also blend in the “extensive automotive retail expertise and assets” from Dominion. Along with using Microsoft Dynamics AX, the DMS will utilize Microsoft sever solutions and tools as well as the Windows Azure platform.

The initial rollout to new-vehicle stores will begin the first quarter of next year.

“Our strategy with Microsoft Dynamics AX is to provide a robust platform for game-changing solutions like the new dealer management system from Dominion,” said Christian Pedersen, general manager of Microsoft Dynamics AX.

“The power and flexibility of Microsoft Dynamics AX enables partners like Dominion to rapidly and cost-effectively develop line-of-business solutions that drive accelerated business value for their customers.”

Dominion Dealer Solutions president Robert Berndt said: “Combining Dominion's experience crafted through relationships with over 11,000 rooftops and Microsoft's technology will result in a tremendous, forward-looking dealer management system.”

He added: “Our relationship with Microsoft gives us the capability to meet the needs of the market, and more, on day one. Dealers who use our DMS will experience flexibility they never dreamed possible, and they will be positioned for the future of automotive retailing.”

Berndt discusses Dominion's moves in more detail in a video posted to the company's website, which can be seen here.