Legacy systems are not sustainable for changing world dynamics. How we operate and do business is rapidly evolving and requires a deft technology partner to keep pace with it. Enterprises relying on Microsoft Dynamics NAV must move to the cloud and upgrade to its latest version, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

When should you upgrade?

Dynamics NAV held a monopoly over the market over the past two decades. However, there are multiple limitations like the lack of automation tools, increased costs, and higher time to process consumption. The advancement in cloud technology ensures businesses derive maximum leverage from cloud-based ERP systems with a wide range of functionalities.

Microsoft’s lifecycle policy provides ongoing support for 10 years for every version of NAV. Post this period, Microsoft will provide just extended support, where it will only receive security updates. Microsoft is ending extended support for NAV in early 2023 and recommends users upgrade to Business Central in the cloud. 

Over the past few years, Microsoft has evolved its ERP products and services to meet global business demands. Business Central is Microsoft’s business management solution for small and mid-sized organizations looking to streamline and automate their business processes.  

5 reasons to upgrade from Dynamics NAV To Business Central

Centralized data management

Dynamics 365 Business Central unifies the entire business – operations, marketing, sales, finance, supply chain management, and more. Migrating to Business Central offers greater visibility into business processes from anytime, anywhere. It drives intuitive insights and makes it easier to make data-driven decisions. The presence of data reporting tools powered by AI, Power BI, and predictive analysis, makes Business Central a top choice for businesses.

Improved collaboration

With the rapid rise in remote working, employees are working on one project from different parts of the world. This requires improved collaboration and better communication tools to succeed. Dynamics 365 Business Central aids users to connect from any device or location and integrates directly with different Microsoft productivity tools like Office 365, Teams, etc. Coupled with Power BI data, the ERP can be used to set KPIs and goals, define achievements, and track progress against set objectives.

Better security

Advanced security features today are a must in any robust ERP system. Given the rising numbers of cyberattacks, and security threats, protecting the organization’s data is of paramount importance. As compared to NAV, Business Central provides more advanced security options. Microsoft has worked to create a host of unparalleled security features, that are impossible for legacy systems to compete with. 

Improved cost-efficiency

With a legacy system in use, it becomes impossible to minimize costs as the prices keep on rising. Business Central, on the other hand, minimizes operating costs for admin, labour, warehouse management, system deployment and maintenance, etc. Upgrading from a legacy system to a cloud-based system improves costs and reduces the total cost of ownership. Business Central reduces admin expenses, disaster recovery, software updates, optimized IT resources, and much more.

Enhanced reporting

On-premise users don’t have the same access to real-time insights as their cloud counterparts. Business Central has built-in intelligence tools that allow businesses to take advantage of AI and machine-learning capabilities. These advanced features are missing in NAV and are critical for businesses looking at staying on their toes and beating the competition. These tools provide the needed insights and help users make the right decision.

However, your business can experience these benefits only if you nail the implementation, migration, or upgrade.

What are the different Dynamics 365 Business Central subscription plans?

Microsoft has four paid licenses:

  • Essential
  • Premium
  • Team Member
  • External Accountant

The chosen license must match the business requirements of the business for maximum success. 

How does a migration partner make a difference?

Migration from NAV to Business Central is a challenging process that requires deft handling and trained expertise that Microsoft Partners possess. Working with a Microsoft Partner keeps you more involved, you’re aware of the best practices, the different nuances of migration, and journey maps. Migration is a tricky process that requires a trusted and experienced Partner to succeed. Microsoft Partners are aware of the pitfalls, have realistic deadlines, accelerate user training, and ultimately aid the organization in leveraging the system efficiently.

Power your migration with Citytech Software DMCC

Citytech Software is a trusted Microsoft Gold Partner and our experienced Dynamics 365 Consultants aid you in utilizing the features of Microsoft Dynamics

365 Business Central and optimizing your business to deliver exceptional results. We are focused on helping organizations drive digital transformation by offering a full suite of Microsoft Business Solutions covering ERP (Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Microsoft Dynamics Finance and Operations ), CRM (Dynamics 365), Microsoft SharePoint, and Power BI implementations. Our goal is to create empowered, connected enterprises with Microsoft Dynamics technology while providing an exceptional customer experience.