Dynamics GP has been a staple ERP solution across many industries, managing vital business operations like financial management, BI, inventory, and warehouse management. However, the shift towards cloud-based solutions has made Dynamics 365 Business Central a favorable choice for businesses aiming to leverage modern technology and integration capabilities.

🤔 Why Migrate to Dynamics 365 Business Central?

🗝️Key Differences Include:

• Licensing: Dynamics GP offers both perpetual and subscription options, whereas Dynamics 365 Business Central provides more flexible SaaS and perpetual licensing.
• User Access: Dynamics GP users can be either full or limited, while Business Central offers Premium or Essentials, targeting different business needs.
• Hosting: Business Central leverages Microsoft Azure for SaaS solutions, providing robust, scalable, and secure cloud hosting, an upgrade over the on-premise or IaaS options typically used with Dynamics GP.
• Functionality: Business Central extends the core functionalities of GP with additional features like budgeting, warehousing, and cash flow projections, all streamlined within one platform.
• Integration and Usability: Business Central offers out-of-the-box dashboard capabilities and integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products with little to no extra effort, unlike Dynamics GP which often requires significant effort and third-party tools for similar integrations.

Integrating Dynamics 365 Business Central into your operations not only simplifies technological infrastructure but also enhances productivity through its advanced and user-friendly interface. Transitioning to a more modern ERP system prepares your business to meet current and future challenges with greater agility.

✅ Key Benefits of Migrating from GP to Business Central

• Automated Financial Transactions: Direct posting to the General Ledger eliminates the need for manual series posts.
• Enhanced Reporting Capabilities: With data hosted in the cloud, businesses can utilize powerful analytics and reporting features integrated with Power BI.
• Increased Operational Efficiency: Integration with Microsoft Power Platform and Customer Engagement tools streamlines processes and enhances productivity.
• Reduced Maintenance Costs: Microsoft manages all updates, monitoring, and infrastructure, significantly reducing IT overhead.

☁️ Factors to Consider When Migrating

• Platform Longevity and Support: Microsoft will continue to support Dynamics GP with updates through 2024, but it will remain primarily an on-premise solution with limited cloud capabilities.
• Business Suitability: Evaluate whether your business environment will benefit from cloud-based solutions based on your specific operational needs and competitive landscape.
• Cloud Advantages: Cloud solutions offer significant advantages over on-premise systems, including improved security, scalability, accessibility, and cost-efficiency.

Detailed Migration Steps

1. Business Case Validation: Confirm the strategic value and feasibility of migrating from GP to Business Central.
2. Requirement Gathering: Detail all necessary system requirements, functionalities, and integrations.
3. Assessment of Current Systems: Review your chart of accounts, reporting needs, and unique business processes.
4. Customization and Integration Review: Determine necessary customizations and third-party add-ons.
5. Migration Planning: Develop a detailed migration roadmap, including timelines and resource allocations.
6. Data Migration Execution: Carefully migrate data, ensuring integrity and accuracy.
7. System Configuration and Testing: Configure Business Central, perform thorough testing, and refine systems based on feedback.
8. End-User Training and Go-Live: Train staff thoroughly and provide support during the go-live phase.
9. Ongoing Support and Maintenance: Engage in continuous system evaluation and optimization post-migration.

💸 Cost of Migration

• License Costs: Transitioning licenses from GP to Business Central can leverage new licenses on Azure, typically costing around $149 per user per month.
• Business Central SaaS Costs: Starting from $90 per user per month, including full support.
• Detailed Migration Service Costs:

  • Financial Management: $19,995
  • Supply Chain: $28,995
  • Project Management: $59,995
  • Professional Services Automation: $59,995
  • Manufacturing: $59,995

🤝 How Conspicuous Can Assist in Your Migration

Conspicuous, as your dedicated migration partner, offers customized support tailored to your business needs:

• Specialised Guidance: We partner with experts specialized in seamless GP to BC transitions.
• Dedicated Support: Our skilled contractors are prepared to facilitate a smooth transition tailored to your needs.
• Direct Consultantation: We can discuss how we can help to address your transition challenges and opportunities.

Conclusion

Migrating from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central represents a significant shift towards a more integrated, efficient, and modern business management system. With the right planning, execution, and support, this transition can transform your operational capabilities and set you up for future success.

For more information or to get started on your migration journey, contact us today.