What You Need To Know about Upgrading Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central

Staying on top of the latest tech advancements can feel like a balancing act for businesses, especially when it comes to deciding whether to upgrade your software systems. This is often the case for companies using Dynamics NAV, who might be thinking about making the leap to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central , Microsoft's latest ERP solution.

Here’s a practical breakdown of what you need to know before considering the switch from Dynamics NAV to D365 Business Central.

Why Upgrade?

Dynamics 365 Business Central isn’t just a fancier version of Dynamics NAV; it’s a whole new ball game. Unlike NAV, which only received updates once a year, Business Central gets bi-annual updates. This means you’ll be quicker to adopt new features and stay ahead of the curve.

But that’s not all. D365 Business Central is designed to integrate seamlessly with other Microsoft tools like Microsoft 365, Power Platform, and Teams, making it much easier to connect your systems and streamline how you work. So, if you’re looking for more efficiency and fewer roadblocks in your daily processes, upgrading might be the smart move.

Here are a few other reasons to consider the switch:

End of Support for Dynamics NAV 2018: Since Microsoft stopped supporting NAV 2018 in January 2023, you're not getting any more updates, bug fixes, or security patches. That leaves your system vulnerable to risks.

Cost-Effective Transition: If you’re current on your Business Ready Enhancement Plan (BREP) payments, you won’t have to pay for a new software license. You’ll just need to budget for implementation, training, and ongoing support.

Seamless Microsoft Integration: Business Central integrates smoothly with Excel, Power Automate, Teams, Word, and other Microsoft tools, making it easier to keep everything connected.

Mobile and Remote Access: Whether your team is working remotely or traveling, Business Central allows for easy access on any device with an internet connection.

Advanced Features: Business Central is packed with modern capabilities, including its native integration with Microsoft Copilot, offering enhanced automation and AI features that can really lighten your workload.

Things to Think About Before Upgrading

1. Review Your Business Processes

Take a close look at your current processes and systems. While you can upgrade from older NAV versions, starting from a more recent one will make things smoother and likely save you time and money in the long run.

2. Make an Upgrade Plan

Once you've got a good handle on where you stand, create a clear upgrade strategy. Define the project’s scope, set realistic timelines, and make sure you’ve identified potential challenges. Keep communication open with everyone involved to ensure the process goes smoothly.

3. Budget Wisely

Upgrading doesn’t have to be a huge financial strain. Evaluate your existing software and hardware infrastructure to spot any compatibility issues early. This will help you avoid unexpected costs and delays down the road, keeping your upgrade process within budget.

4. Customizations and Third-Party Add-ons

Business Central operates on a more modern development platform than NAV, which makes it easier to handle customizations and third-party add-ons. However, you'll want to check if your current customizations can be seamlessly transferred during the upgrade.

Why Work with a Microsoft Dynamics Partner?

While upgrading can be a bit of a project, you don’t have to do it alone. Working with a Microsoft Dynamics Partner, like TMR Consulting, can make the whole process a lot easier and more efficient. Here’s why partnering with a specialist makes sense:

Better ROI: Studies show that businesses working with a Dynamics partner often see a significantly higher return on investment compared to those going it alone. Having experts by your side means fewer hiccups and more streamlined processes.

Minimized Risks: ERP upgrades can sometimes run into delays or budget overruns. With TMR Consulting’s experience, we’ll help you identify potential challenges early and keep everything on track.

Full Support: From migrating data to training your team and testing the system, we’ve got you covered every step of the way. We’ll make sure your upgrade is smooth and hassle-free.

Conclusion

Upgrading to Dynamics 365 Business Central is a big decision, but with the right planning and support, it’s an excellent opportunity to modernize your business systems. Take the time to assess your current setup, map out a plan, and consider working with experts to ensure a successful transition.

At TMR Consulting , we’re ready to help you unlock the full potential of Dynamics 365 Business Central. With over two decades of experience and a reputation for delivering exceptional ERP solutions, we’ve got the knowledge and tools to make your upgrade a success. Contact us today and let’s make your transition to Business Central as seamless as possible.