5 Key Limitations of Not Moving to Dynamics 365 Business Central

The decision to switch to a new ERP solution is not to be taken lightly. It demands time, careful planning, and at times, can be fairly challenging. However, as your business expands and your requirements change, persisting with outdated systems such as Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) or Dynamics NAV (Navision) may restrict your progress towards your company’s envisioned future.

Given that regular support for GP and NAV is either approaching its conclusion or has already ceased, the real question at hand isn’t about whether you should upgrade to a contemporary ERP platform, but instead, it’s about when and that usually happens when you finally feel prepared. 

Contemplating your next steps, you might be reflecting on switching to another provider like Sage, Acumatica, or NetSuite. However, leaving the Microsoft network entirely has its own set of challenges and limitations. In this article, we will dive into the pitfalls of staying on outdated ERP systems and the reason why shifting to D365 Business Central is the wisest choice for GP and NAV users. 

GP and NAV Support Ends  

Microsoft has emphasized that their premier ERP solution for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) is Business Central (BC).  

“Dynamics 365 Business Central is Microsoft’s flagship SMB ERP product, optimized to help businesses thrive in a new world of cloud and AI computing.  “ 

– Mike Morton | VP of Dynamics 365 Business Central 

Here’s what you need to know about the current condition of GP and NAV: 

• Mainstream support for NAV ended in January 2023. While extended support may still be available, you’re now relying on a system that won’t receive new features or improvements. 

• The primary support for GP is concluding in 2029. Given that the software is no longer under active development, you’re essentially utilizing a product with a finite lifespan. 

As these systems age, they become more expensive to maintain and harder to scale. They also leave you vulnerable to security risks and inefficiencies that could cost your business in the long run. If you haven’t started planning your transition yet, now is the time to take the first step. 

Considering Other ERP Vendors? Be Aware of the Limitations

For businesses already using GP or NAV, it might seem tempting to jump ship to another ERP vendor like Sage, Acumatica, or NetSuite. While these platforms may offer modern features, moving to an entirely new ecosystem introduces a host of challenges, especially for organizations already using Microsoft products. Let’s break down the limitations of moving to non-Microsoft ERP solutions: 

1. Overcoming Integration Hurdles with Microsoft 365 Apps 

If your business relies on Microsoft 365 apps like Outlook, Excel, or Teams, you’ll face integration headaches with non-Microsoft ERP solutions. 

• Business Central enables effortless integration with Microsoft 365 applications, as it is an integral part of the Microsoft stack. This allows you to effortlessly update customer data, for instance. 

• With other ERP systems, you’ll need third-party tools or custom development to achieve similar integration, which adds additional costs and complexity. Even then, the integration may not feel as natural or robust as it does with Business Central. 

2. Missed Opportunities with AI and Copilot 

Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot is natively built into Business Central and works in tandem with other Microsoft products, such as Word, Excel, and Teams. Copilot helps automate repetitive tasks, improve decision-making, and boost productivity. 

• For example, Copilot can generate financial reports, draft email responses to customers, or even suggest inventory restocking strategies—all within the familiar Microsoft environment. 

• Competing ERP platforms may offer AI tools, but they lack the deep integration that makes Copilot so effective when paired with Business Central and Microsoft 365 apps. 

3. Higher Costs and Complexity with Third-Party Tools 

If you want to continue using Microsoft products, moving to a non-Microsoft ERP system often requires extensive customization and third-party tools to replicate the capabilities of Business Central. 

• These tools add upfront costs, licensing fees, and maintenance overhead, making it harder to budget for the long term. 

• In contrast, Business Central’s out-of-the-box functionality, combined with its tight integration with Microsoft products, reduces the need for costly add-ons. 

4. Learning Curve for a New Ecosystem 

For users already familiar with Microsoft products, transitioning to another ERP system means adapting to an entirely new interface, processes, and workflows. 

• Business Central builds on the familiarity of Microsoft 365 apps, making the learning curve much shorter for your team. 

• Other vendors often require more extensive training and a longer onboarding period, which can disrupt productivity during the transition. 

5. Data Migration Risks 

Migrating from GP or NAV to a non-Microsoft ERP system increases the risk of data compatibility issues, leading to delays, errors, or even data loss. 

• Although Business Central requires a reimplementation for GP users, Microsoft specifically designed it with both GP and NAV users in mind. The transition is made with BC’s robust migration tools, designed to effortlessly transport your data and settings.
   

• Additionally, there are experienced Microsoft Solutions Partners available to provide customized solutions if Microsoft’s migration tools alone don’t fully meet your needs.  

The Case for Staying with Microsoft – Dynamics 365 Business Central 

Microsoft has positioned Business Central as the future of ERP for SMBs—and for good reason. It’s not just about staying within the Microsoft ecosystem; it’s about unlocking new capabilities that drive business growth. 

With Business Central, you’ll benefit from: 

• Effortless Teamwork: Synchronize your group’s efforts with the incorporation of Teams, SharePoint, and OneDrive for a more productive workflow. 

• Scalability: Business Central grows with your business, supporting new users, features, and industries as your needs evolve. 

• Continuous innovation: Microsoft regularly releases updates and new features for Business Central, ensuring your system stays modern and competitive. 

• Future-proofing your investment: By transitioning to Business Central now, you’re aligning your business with Microsoft’s long-term vision for ERP. 

Why Partner with Technology Management Concepts? 

Transitioning from GP or NAV to Business Central doesn’t have to be overwhelming. At Technology Management Concepts (TMC), we specialize in helping businesses like yours navigate this journey with confidence. Here’s why our clients trust us: 

• Deep Expertise: With years of experience working with GP, NAV, and Business Central, we understand the unique challenges of transitioning from legacy systems. 

• Customized Strategies: We do more than simply transition your data, we devise strategies that fully utilize Business Central’s potential to address your unique requirements. 

• Proven Process: Our competent team guarantees effortless transition with limited disturbance to your daily activities, enabling you to reap the benefits of Business Central quickly. 

Let’s work together to create a roadmap for your ERP transition. Get in touch with our Business Central experts today to learn more about what this move could look like for your business. 

Are You Prepared to Make the Leap?  

Don’t let outdated technology limit your business’s growth. Reach out to Technology Management Concepts (TMC) today and discover how we can assist you in transitioning to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central to unleash your business’s ultimate potential.