If you have been happy using Microsoft Dynamics NAV as your ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution, you’ll be glad to know that Dynamics NAV’s latest iteration is Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC).
Microsoft brought out Dynamics 365 in the fall of 2016, and they announced their intention to discontinue Dynamics NAV upgrades in 2018 and support for NAV in 2028. Many Dynamics NAV users are looking ahead and considering updating to Dynamics 365BC now.
There are several reasons why upgrading to Microsoft Dynamics 365BC is the best choice for Dynamics NAV users looking for a modern, secure, and affordable ERP system. And there are two options for you to consider:
Option1. Keep your solution on-premises.
The Cloud, although it offers distinct advantages, is not for everyone. So, Microsoft offers you the benefits of Dynamics 365BC implemented as a Cloud or an on-premise solution.
Keeping your solution on-premise and upgrading to Microsoft Dynamics 365BC will be relatively easy. If you are already on Microsoft’s Business Ready Enhancement Plan(BREP) for annual maintenance, you’ll upgrade the way you always have to your server or hosting provider. You’ve already purchased licenses and paid your yearly maintenance fee. As a current NAV user, you’re entitled to two named Dynamics 365BC users for every concurrent Dynamics NAV user. There should be no added charge for the software, and all your data remains on-premise.
This option will appeal to those who prefer to host their own software and still have a path for migrating to the Cloud if they choose to in the future. You can also do nothing, just stay on your current system, and renew your BREP without migrating or upgrading. At least you’ll have support until 2028.
If your system is highly customized, you can migrate your customizations and integrations by upgrading to Dynamics 365 Business Central on-premises and then converting your customizations to extensions.
Option 2. Upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central in the Cloud
By upgrade to Dynamics 365BC in the Cloud, users will have the advantage of a true cloud solution. Benefits include easy 24/7 access anywhere from any device, automatic upgrades, seamless integration through web APIs, and reduced startup, hardware, and IT costs.
You will purchase licenses as needed and add users as your business grows. Using Microsoft Azure for Cloud hosting is typically less expensive than hosting on your own. You’ll save 40% if you upgrade before 6/30/2021. If you are current on your NAV support plan, you’ll qualify for these valuable discounts.
Users of Microsoft Dynamics GP, Microsoft Dynamics AX, and Microsoft Dynamics SL can also easily upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics 365.
As part of your transition, we suggest that you evaluate your customizations and integrations and determine which ones are still required or cost-effective to redevelop for Dynamics 365 Business Central. You may find that some of your customizations are now included in Dynamics 365.
Further considerations
Microsoft invests more than one billion dollars each a year in Dynamics Azure Cloud to ensure unparalleled security and governance. It also employs more than 3,500 security experts to protect their clients’ information. Microsoft collaborates with industry and regulators to build trust in the cloud ecosystem guided by the highest principles for security, privacy and control, compliance, and transparency.
With Software as a Service (SaaS), you’ll pay one monthly subscription rate and won’t have to purchase and maintain your own servers. You won’t need an extensive IT team as your service provider will be responsible for keeping the software up and running at all times. Discounts are available now, until 6/30/2021 for the Microsoft BREP.
Enhanced productivity is the biggest reason to upgrade to Dynamics 365, either on-premise or in the Cloud. The new features and functionality, together with seamless integration to Office 365, are worth checking out.
Pricing for new customers is amazing tool! So, why stay with your old technology another year?
Our professionals will empower your team to use your ERP solution to its full potential enabling your organization to compete effectively in today’s marketplace. For more information about Dynamics 365 for Finance & Operations (formerly Dynamics AX), Business Central (formerly Dynamics NAV), or Acumatica Cloud ERP purchases, upgrades and implementations, contact us at 800-331-8382 or email us at sales@cfbs-us.com.
By Clients First Business Solutions, cfbs-us.com
Another version of this blog was posted on Clients First Business Solutions blog - 3 CONSIDERATIONS FOR NAV CUSTOMERS TO UPGRADE TO DYNAMICS 365 BUSINESS CENTRAL
