The Truth About Migrating from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central

The truth about migrating from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central

Hearing that you need to migrate from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central?

First, and most importantly, there is NO migration from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central.

The true title of this blog should be “The truth about implementing Dynamics 365 Business Central from Dynamics GP.” However, there are too many partners and competitors spreading misinformation.

Why do we need to make this distinction early on? Simple, migrations are easy. Implementing Business Central is NOT easy.

Let’s compare implementation to migration when it comes to Dynamics 365 Business Central.

What is an Implementation?

Implementation refers to the process of introducing a new system, process, or infrastructure from scratch. It involves planning, designing, and deploying a new solution to address a specific business need or problem. Implementation can be either a gradual or phased process, depending on the scope and complexity of the change.  Simplified, Implementations are hard!

Implementing Dynamics 365 Business Central is a full transformation of your business systems, integrations, and processes.

In addition to software costs, implementation costs range anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000+. On average, the time to implement lasts 6 – 12+ months and requires an enormous amount of additional time spent by your team.

Unless there is a true business reason to implement a new ERP, customers typically do not want to spend the time, effort, or money.

What is migration?

On the other hand, migration refers to the process of moving an existing system, process, or infrastructure to a new environment. Migration is usually done when there is a need to upgrade or replace outdated systems, or when there is a need to consolidate multiple systems into a single platform. Think about moving Dynamics GP from your on-premises servers into a hosted cloud like PowerGP Online.  You are still using Dynamics GP, keeping all your data and ISVs – it’s just hosted in a secure, highly available cloud environment. Unlike an implementation, migrating to PowerGP Online can be accomplished in a matter of days and for as little as a $2,495 set-up fee.

As a Dynamics GP customer, knowing that Microsoft is committed to supporting Dynamics GP to 2028 and beyond, you should be asking, “Do I need business transformation and disruption now?”  For most Dynamics GP customers, the answer is “NO!”  It is important not to feel pressured or bullied by your partner to move if you are happy with Dynamics GP.  Microsoft has made it clear that it will continue to support existing Dynamics GP customers well into the future, whether you are on premise or in the cloud. There are partners like Njevity who are committed to supporting your Dynamics GP well into the future and products like PowerGP Online that allow you to easily migrate your Dynamics GP to the cloud. We can help with both.

Download the Should You Stay or Should You Go Whitepaper and share the truth.