Microsoft Dynamics GP has had a fantastic run for many businesses, and for those who plan to stick with it, it will continue to serve plenty of functionality. But it’s now common knowledge that Microsoft will no longer be updating Dynamics GP—nor will the technology giant ever provide a cloud-based version of this system.
This reality leaves organizations on Dynamics GP—especially small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs)—with the difficult but necessary task of evaluating how to migrate to another enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution. With all the options out there in the market, you might even be considering leaving the Microsoft ecosystem. There are five important points to take note of before making a decision about your next ERP move.
1. Many Features You Love in Dynamics GP Are Right Here in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
It’s a common misconception today that Dynamics 365 Business Central lacks functionality compared to Dynamics GP. (Because that used to be the case!) Microsoft has made significant investments in building out the features and capabilities of Dynamics 365 Business Central so Dynamics GP users don’t miss their most-utilized tools, such as statistical accounting. Microsoft continues to enhance Business Central to include the most loved features of Dynamics GP.
2. Dynamics 365 Business Central Delivers the Benefits of the Cloud
Dynamics GP is great for what it is, but a modern business needs modern solutions. SMBs especially cannot afford to run operations using outdated legacy technology. The cloud is the answer, and Dynamics 365 Business Central offers SMBs the most powerful scalability and flexibility in the cloud. It’s also the most cost-effective solution compared to other major ERP solutions.
3. Many Popular ISVs Are Available in Business Central
If you’re used to working with add-ons from Dynamics GP independent software vendors, odds are they’ve made their services compatible with Business Central so you don’t have to abandon your tools or relationship with them. The most popular ISVs for Dynamics GP like Binary Stream, SalesPad (now Cavallo), Mekorma, and Greenshades—to name a few—already have their apps ready for Business Central, and every day, more ISVs are adding their Dynamics GP solutions to Microsoft AppSource (Microsoft’s app store) for Business Central.
4. Business Central Offers Mature Financial Management Tools
Another common misconception is that Business Central is lacking when it comes to financial management, so sticking with Dynamics GP is the safer bet. The opposite is true. Business Central includes analysis views on ledger entries, intercompany transactions, added support for multi-company management, out-of-the-box integration to most banks, streamlined bank reconciliation, cash flow forecasting and more.
5. No Matter What ERP Solution You Choose, Migrate with a Partner
Going it alone when you’re ready to move on from Dynamics GP could cost you more in the long run. Many SMBs forgo using a technology partner when they make the move to the cloud to save money, but that risks incorrect implementation—something you’ll have to fix later on. The right technology partner will also be able to configure your solution correctly and train your users so you can maximize your investment in your cloud ERP system. You’ll have a higher success rate with your new solution—and you’ll be rest assured you made the right technology choice—if you opt for working with an experienced partner.
Start Thinking About Migrating to the Cloud Today
While there isn’t a huge pressure to move away from Dynamics GP today, it’s a good idea to start thinking about where you’ll go next. The migration to a new ERP solution has several moving parts, so you’ll want to properly strategize. With DSWi, you’ll experience the smoothest-possible migration in addition to configuration and training from our experts. We have helped many SMBs grow and scale using Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, and we’d be happy to learn about what your business is looking for in your next ERP solution.
Reach out anytime.
