Dynamics GP: What’s next for GP Partners and Users?

Dynamics GP has long been Microsoft’s trusted ERP solution, and for a good reason. In light of rapid technological advancements, it’s worth reevaluating Dynamics GP with other Dynamics ERP solutions on the market today.

Should you modify your solution or consider switching to another if it doesn’t meet your unique business requirements?

Microsoft executive Mike Morton made important announcements during the recent Community Summit in North America. According to Morton, Microsoft will end mainstream support for Dynamics GP in 2028 and switch to extended support. This is approximately five years from now, but it begs the question: What will happen next?

Microsoft clarified the following message:

• During the extended support period, Microsoft will no longer accept requests for new features or design changes.

• Microsoft will continue to release regulatory (tax) and security updates for Dynamics GP, but the October 2022 release will be the last to include other features.

• There will be minor updates to Dynamics GP for the foreseeable future. To keep it running, you’ll need to purchase add-ons. It will include free security updates and paid non-security updates.

What Options Do Businesses Have?

The above clarifications indicate that businesses should not expect significant improvements in Dynamics GP. Microsoft’s recent investments and innovations will be seen in other Dynamics 365 offerings.

Dynamics Business Central is Microsoft’s latest innovation. Microsoft will focus on Business Central in the SMB segment. We urge that you migrate to Business Central if you want to transform your business.

It will also be important for Microsoft to plan its next steps before the system becomes unsupported. Failure to plan will make businesses unable to integrate with certain ISVS. A limited number of partners will offer GP services, resulting in more time spent searching for new partners.

Dynamics Business Central Key Features

With Dynamics Business Central, customers can realize their full potential. It has the following characteristics:

• Brand-new user interface built-in
• Complete connectivity with other Microsoft solutions 
• Order processing
• Easy customization
• Effective finance management

A proven Microsoft Dynamics Partner can assist you in making a seamless transition from Dynamics GP to Business Central. 

Should I go from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Dynamics Business Central?

While Microsoft Dynamics GP has proven to be a dependable ERP and accounting solution, it might not be sufficient to meet the needs of your expanding company. 

Even with countless customizations, you might not be maximizing automation, efficiency, and digital transformation but instead torturing GP and adding friction to your business operations. 

Microsoft Dynamics Business Central is a modern cloud-based ERP system best suited for businesses with a forward-thinking mindset. For GP clients, the move to cloud computing and storage is a crucial update, especially if you want to fully benefit from the growth that comes with this cutting-edge cloud-based technology.

Delaying an upgrade might make things worse for your company because it will be more challenging to switch from Dynamics GP to Business Central later.

Migrate to Dynamics Business Central: 4 Key Considerations

• Easily transition to Dynamics Business Central Cloud

GP Partners who switch to Dynamics Business Central in the cloud will benefit from all the advantages of a genuine cloud solution, including 24/7 access from any device, seamless upgrades, easy integration utilizing web APIs, and lower hardware costs.

• Use Dynamics Azure to provide high security and governance

Microsoft protects your data in Dynamics 365 by employing over 3,500 security experts and investing more than $1 billion annually in Dynamics Azure. Microsoft collaborates with industry authorities to foster trust in the cloud ecosystem, which is governed by security, privacy, control, and compliance principles.

By switching to Dynamics Business Central, you can: 

• Ensure the privacy, accuracy, and accessibility of your data.
• You have complete control over who has access to your data.
• Follow relevant laws and industry best practices while organizing and managing your data.
• Access to details regarding the handling and use of your data

• View your company’s activities as a whole and increase productivity

Compared to Dynamics GP, Business Central’s core financials offer dimensional account structures that are more flexible and conducive to reporting. One of the critical components of Business Central is its integration with barcoding, handheld scanners, and shipping for more effective operations. 

It also offers automatic and scheduled reconciliations, cash flow projects, and seamless warehousing and inventory management interfaces.

Fixed Assets, eBanking, Inventory Tracking, Multi-Currency, Multiple Entities, Purchase Orders, Warehouse Management, Manufacturing and Services, and built-in budgeting are just a few of the essential features. Power BI and Business Central are designed to work together smoothly to create robust visual dashboards. The system has built-in CRM features that can be further enhanced with additional AppSource apps to support sales, customer care, and field service without effort.

Conclusion

The regular updates to Dynamics Business Central are more cost-effective, unlike GP. You may effortlessly switch to the cloud while keeping your system current. It facilitates the transition by cutting downtime and related expenses.

The longer you delay the migration, the more challenging it will be to switch to Business Central in the future, which might result in further challenges for your company. Besides, Dynamics Business Central is the last upgrade you will ever make. To know more about migration to Business Central, drop us a line.