Enterprise resource planning software is essential for business success. There are many ERP solutions that work well, and among them is the well-known Microsoft Dynamics GP.
As technology has progressed and modern ERP solutions with advanced features have become available, adopting such solutions is on the rise among today’s organizations.
An ERP software comparison is essential in the modern business environment. The comparison is between Microsoft’s ERP solutions, Dynamics GP and Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Microsoft Dynamics GP is an on-premises ERP solution designed to help organizations manage core functions. On the other hand, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is a comprehensive cloud-based ERP solution designed for organizations of all sizes and types.
As Microsoft is ending the support for Dynamics GP, the solution is not being recommended for managing business functions. Microsoft is encouraging users to make a move from Dynamics GP to Business Central. An ERP migration strategy would be helpful for the successful adoption of Business Central.
Let us move on to the Dynamics GP vs Business Central comparison. In this blog, we discuss key differences between these two ERP solutions and which one fits your business. The ERP software comparison is valuable for making further decisions on your ERP migration strategy and how it benefits to your business growth.
Dynamics GP Vs Business Central
Both ERP solutions are designed for businesses of all sizes and types. The Microsoft ERP guide throws light on the key differences that equips you to make the right decision – whether staying on existing GP or making a transition from Dynamics GP to Business Central would be better.
Here we go:
Deployment model
Dynamics GP
Dynamics GP is an on-premises ERP, meaning that it is designed to be installed on your company’s servers. Though the solution can be hosted on the cloud through third-party providers, it wasn’t designed for cloud. This means that its cloud capabilities are limited.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud-based ERP solution that integrates core functions along with advanced AI, automation, analytics, and reporting capabilities. However, the solution can also be deployed on-premises, with limited access to Microsoft cloud features.
User experience
Dynamics GP
Dynamics GP has a user-interface that is out-of-date. Existing GP might find it easy to use, but it seems impractical for current users as it lacks modern UI design and navigation. This can result in a poor user experience, which often affects employee performance and productivity.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Business Central provides a modern, easy-to-use interface that enables users to navigate system functionalities with ease. This can lead to improved user experiences and thus the performance. Users can easily access the ERP from any device.
Integration capabilities
Dynamics GP
Dynamics GP integrates with existing systems, but this is usually possible through third-party connectors or API’s. This can be a costly and time-consuming for organizations.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Business Central effortlessly integrates with Microsoft solutions like Microsoft 365, Azure, Power Platform, and other Dynamics 365 apps. It also seamlessly integrates with existing third-party systems and apps, making it a valuable ERP choice for today’s organizations.
Updates and upgrades
Dynamics GP
Though updates are available for GP, no major innovations or new features are being introduced. Microsoft will end support for Dynamics GP in 2029. The ERP solution is not well-suited for the modern business environment.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Business Central is designed for modern environment with latest technology features. It receives automatic updates from Microsoft which ensures you get access to latest operational features and security mechanisms.
Customization
Dynamics GP
Dynamics GP can be customized to meet your business goals. However, GP customization often involves complex coding or the use of third-party solutions which are time-consuming and costly.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Business Central provides extensive customization capability which allows you to expand the system functionality to suite your business development goals. You can customize the ERP using apps available in AppSource, or through custom coding and the Microsoft Power Platform.
Cost and licensing
Dynamics GP
Though Microsoft has not completely discontinued, news sales of GP licenses will soon come to an end. However, support for existing GP customers will continue through 2029.
Dynamics 365 Business Central
Dynamics 365 Business Central comes with a subscription-based licensing with predictable pricing and lower hardware needs.
Grow your business with Business Central
Considering todays digital environment, it is worthwhile to adopt cloud-based Dynamics 365 Business Central. It provides modern automation, analytics, and AI to accelerate business processes including finance, sales, and operations.
If you are a Dynamics GP user, adopt an ERP migration strategy with IAX DYNAMICS, your trusted Microsoft Partner. They follow a strategic approach for a smooth transition from Dynamics GP to Business Central, with a proper understanding of your business goals.
Microsoft Business Central benefits organizations of all sizes and types. Here are the key reasons to choose Business Central as your ERP solution for business development.
- Cloud-based flexibility
- Access to Microsoft AI and analytics
- Automatic updates
- Improved security
- Seamless integration capability
- Effortless customization options
- Ideal for small and medium-sized businesses
When it comes to creating a successful ERP migration strategy for your business, connect with our Dynamics 365 professionals and ensure a faultless move from Dynamics GP to Business Central.
FAQ Section
What is the main difference between Dynamics GP and Dynamics 365 Business Central?
Dynamics GP is an on-premises ERP solution, while Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud-based ERP designed with modern features like AI, automation, and analytics.
Why should businesses consider moving from Dynamics GP to Business Central?
Microsoft is ending support for Dynamics GP by 2029 and recommends migrating to Business Central, which offers modern capabilities, regular updates, and better integration with Microsoft services.
Can Dynamics GP be hosted on the cloud?
Yes, Dynamics GP can be hosted on the cloud through third-party providers, but it was not designed for cloud environments and lacks native cloud capabilities.
How does Business Central support customization and integration?
Business Central offers extensive customization using Microsoft AppSource, custom coding, and the Power Platform. It integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365, Azure, and other third-party systems.
