What does Modern Lifecycle mean for Microsoft Dynamics GP?

With the release of Microsoft Dynamics GP in October 2019, a "new" term to GP vocabulary we are not all that familiar with called Modern Lifecycle.

As you can see from some of the documentation that has been published with the release the "year" has been dropped from the name. This is because Microsoft Dynamics GP is moving to the Modern Lifecycle model. This demonstrates Microsoft's commitment to Dynamics GP and a clear Road-map for customers and partners.

Software Lifecycle Policy for Microsoft Dynamics GP

1. Each year you are guaranteed at minimum:

• Feature update in October, meaning a larger update that includes new features for all.
• Year end updates in November (U.S.)
• Mid-Year update (typically June/July) based on regulatory changes for the year

With each release, there will be continual quality fixes in each update.

2. This lifecycle shows beyond any end date for Dynamics GP and will continually be updated.

3. With this policy there is no Mainstream support or Extended Support for another 5 years. With the modern policy it is expected that customers stay current with the release and apply at least 1 update a year in order to avoid issues with support.

4. If you are on the following versions, you will be subject to the previous lifecycle and sunset dates listed below, the new modern lifecycle does not apply

(Mainstream means you receive taxes, product release, service packs, etc. Extended means you receive support help, but no product updates)

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2015-Mainstream end date 4/14/2020-Support End date 4/8/2025

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2016-Mainstream end date 7/13/2021-Support End date 7/14/2026

Microsoft Dynamics GP 2018-Version 18.00.0727 and prior (anything prior to October 2019 release)-Mainstream end date 1/10/2023-Support End date 1/11/2028

(Once an existing Dynamics GP 2018 customer installs the new release in October 2019 or applies the 2019 November/December year end update, then they too are on the Modern Lifecycle)

You are thinking, this is easier said than done 'stay current'. We are a large customer, we have many ISV (3rd party) solutions, we cannot be down, testing needs to be done, etc, the list of reasons is endless. Over the years, ask any partner that does updates, it has gotten easier, today all they do is install the update, push a button and let it run right? We have come a long way with updates and due to the stage of life GP is in, large architecture changes are not occurring as did 10 years ago. This equates to easier updates, less failures and simpler for customers to apply. Be aware, there are System Requirements, SQL versions, Operating systems, etc, but in general, gone are the days of the grueling updates we all used to know. 

This is an exciting time for Microsoft Dynamics GP. Adapt to change and continue to be an advocate for the product.