What’s the Problem with Traditional CRM Filtering?
In most CRM systems, filtering data requires users to navigate dropdown menus, select from long lists of fields, and apply multiple layers of logic. This process is not only time-consuming but also intimidating for non-technical users. It often leads to frustration, inconsistent usage, and missed insights—especially when sales reps are under pressure to move quickly.
What’s New in the 2025 Wave 1 Release of Dynamics 365 Sales?
Microsoft has introduced Natural Language Filtering in the Smart Grid—a modern, AI-powered interface that allows users to interact with their data using plain, conversational language. Instead of clicking through menus, users can now type phrases like:
- “Opportunities closing next quarter”
- “Contacts in California with open cases”
- “Leads created by me last week”
The Smart Grid interprets these phrases and instantly applies the correct filters, making the experience faster, more intuitive, and accessible to everyone on the team.
How Does Natural Language Filtering Work?
This feature leverages natural language processing (NLP) and AI models to understand user intent. As you type, the system dynamically suggests filters based on your input, available fields, and historical usage patterns. It’s like having a smart assistant embedded in your CRM that understands what you mean—even if you don’t phrase it perfectly.
For example, typing “high-value opportunities” might automatically apply a filter for opportunities with an estimated revenue above a certain threshold, based on your organization’s data trends.
What Are the Key Benefits of Using Natural Language Filtering?
- Conversational Simplicity: No need to remember field names or filter logic—just type what you need.
- Real-Time Suggestions: The system helps you complete your query with intelligent, context-aware prompts.
- Multi-Column Sorting: You can sort by multiple fields using natural phrases like “sort by close date then by priority.”
- AI-Driven Accuracy: The more you use it, the better it gets at understanding your preferences and patterns.
Why Should Sales Teams Use This Feature?
Sales professionals thrive on speed and clarity. Natural Language Filtering helps by:
- Reducing time spent on data retrieval
- Improving CRM adoption through a more user-friendly interface
- Empowering all users, regardless of technical skill
- Accelerating decision-making with faster access to relevant insights
How Do You Start Using Natural Language Filtering?
- Open any Smart Grid-enabled view (e.g., Opportunities, Leads, Contacts).
- Click the filter bar at the top of the grid.
- Begin typing a natural language query.
- Select from the suggested filters or press Enter to apply.
No configuration is needed—it’s ready to use out of the box in the 2025 Wave 1 release.
What Are Some Pro Tips for Getting the Most Out of It?
- Use relative timeframes like “last 30 days” or “next quarter.”
- Combine filters: “Deals over $100K closing this month.”
- Filter by owner or team: “Opportunities owned by me.”
- Sort with intent: “Sort by estimated revenue descending, then by close date ascending.”
What’s the Bottom Line?
Natural Language Filtering in Dynamics 365 Sales is a leap forward in CRM usability. It empowers users to interact with data in a way that feels natural, intuitive, and fast—helping sales teams focus less on clicks and more on closing deals.
Learn more directly from Microsoft:
Find, filter, and sort using natural language in the smart grid
