Unveiling the Latest Microsoft Dynamics ERP Roadmaps

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Webinar Housekeeping
3. Maximizing Webinar Pane
4. Asking Questions
5. Audio Quality
6. CPE Credits
7. Learning Objectives
8. Microsoft Dynamics ERP Solutions
9. Dynamics SL (formerly Solomon) 9.1 Roadmap for Dynamics SL 9.2 Upgrading to Business Central
10. Dynamics GP (formerly Great Plains) 10.1 Lifecycle Policy 10.2 Upgrading to Business Central
11. Dynamics 365 Business Central (formerly Navision) 11.1 Features and Enhancements 11.2 Path Options for GP Users
12. Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations (formerly Xapta) 12.1 Monthly Release Cycles 12.2 Licensing and Migration Options
13. Comparison of ERP Solutions 13.1 Licensing Costs 13.2 Financial Management 13.3 Project Tracking 13.4 Integration Capabilities 13.5 Other Functionality
14. Next Steps 14.1 Complimentary System Review 14.2 Additional Discussions 14.3 Staying Current on Current ERP Solution
15. Conclusion

Article

The Scoop on Microsoft Dynamics ERP: Roadmaps and Releases

Good morning and thank You for joining our webinar on the latest updates and roadmaps for Microsoft Dynamics ERP solutions. My name is Kim Selmo and I'll be your host today. Before we dive into the details, let's go over some housekeeping items.

During this webinar, you have the option to maximize or minimize the webinar pane using the red and orange arrow buttons. We encourage you to ask questions throughout the presentation using the question box in the webinar window. We'll do our best to answer them, either during the presentation or in the Q&A session at the end.

To ensure good audio quality, please check your audio settings and select the appropriate audio option. If you're using a telephone, click on the phone call option. If you're listening through your computer, click on the audio option.

Now, let's get started with our learning objectives for today's webinar. Our main goals are to discover the plans for Microsoft Dynamics release waves and updates, evaluate how to Align and prepare your organization, and uncover the latest enhancements and features to help you maximize your existing solutions.

Dynamics SL: Roadmap and Upgrade Options

Let's start by exploring Microsoft Dynamics SL, formerly known as Solomon. For those still on this solution, it's important to note that minimal new features are planned in the future. However, there is a path to upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC), which we will discuss in Detail.

The roadmap for Dynamics SL focuses on ongoing development Based on the top feature requests from the Dynamics community and partners. However, we've noticed that many SL clients are considering other solutions and moving towards the cloud due to limited support and feature enhancements.

If you're still on Dynamics SL 2018, you can choose to upgrade to the latest version to stay supported. However, if you're looking for more advanced functionality and cloud capabilities, migrating to Dynamics 365 Business Central is a viable option.

Dynamics GP: Lifecycle Policy and Transition to Business Central

Next, let's talk about Dynamics GP, formerly known as Great Plains. The Current lifecycle policy for GP follows the fixed lifecycle policy, with mainstream support ending on specific dates for different versions. It's crucial to stay current on service packs to ensure ongoing support.

If you're considering a transition to Business Central, there are multiple paths available. You can upgrade to the most recent version of GP and stay supported, or you may choose to migrate to Dynamics 365 Business Central with the Intelligent Edge for cloud capabilities and seamless integrations.

Dynamics 365 Business Central: Features and Migration Options

Now, let's dive into Dynamics 365 Business Central, formerly known as Navision. This cloud-based solution leverages the modern architecture of Dynamics NAV and offers a user-friendly experience. With over 140,000 instances and 3.3 million users worldwide, Business Central is a popular choice for small to medium-sized businesses.

Business Central provides robust functionality across financial management, sales, service management, and project management. It integrates seamlessly with Office 365 applications like Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams, alongside the Power Platform, enabling powerful reporting and automation capabilities.

Migration options from Dynamics SL and Dynamics GP to Business Central are available, allowing you to retain access to both solutions during the transition. By moving to Business Central, you can reduce hardware costs, secure your data in the cloud, and leverage advanced analytics and integration capabilities.

Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations (F&O): Monthly Release Cycles and Licensing

Lastly, let's explore Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, formerly known as Xapta. This comprehensive ERP solution covers financial management, supply chain management, and operations management. With monthly release cycles, you can benefit from regular updates and new features.

Licensing for Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations follows the modern lifecycle policy, where updates are automatic and integrated into your environment. With strong support from Microsoft, you can enable features and functionalities based on your specific requirements.

Comparing ERP Solutions: Licensing, Functionality, and Integration

To help you make informed decisions, let's compare the key features and differences between the various ERP solutions:

• Licensing costs: Perpetual licensing for Dynamics SL and GP, while Business Central and Finance and Operations follow a subscription-based model.
• Financial management: Different Chart of accounts structures and budgeting options across solutions.
• Project tracking: Varying levels of project accounting and management capabilities.
• Integration capabilities: Options for native integrations, third-party add-ons, and Power Platform features.
• Other functionality: Varied features for accounts receivable, accounts payable, inventory management, and more.

Remember, every business has unique requirements, and your choice of ERP solution should align with your specific needs and goals.

Next Steps: System Review and Further Discussion

If you'd like to explore Dynamics Business Central, Finance and Operations, or any other topics discussed today in more detail, we invite you to schedule a complimentary 60-minute session with your client manager and one of our ERP consultants. We can help you assess your current system, discuss migration options, and answer any additional questions you may have.

Finally, we want to acknowledge that staying with your current ERP solution is a valid choice. If you decide to stick with your current system, rest assured that we will Continue to support you and provide assistance whenever needed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the roadmaps and releases for Microsoft Dynamics ERP solutions is vital for organizations looking to leverage the latest features, enhancements, and cloud capabilities. Whether you decide to upgrade, migrate, or stay with your current solution, We Are here to support you every step of the way.

Please reach out to your client manager or our team for further assistance or to schedule a consultation. Thank you for joining us today, and we look forward to helping you optimize your ERP experience.

Highlights:

• Overview of Microsoft Dynamics ERP solutions: SL, GP, Business Central, and Finance and Operations.
• Roadmaps and upgrade options for each solution.
• Comparison of licensing costs, functionality, and integration capabilities.
• Next steps for further discussions and system review.

FAQs:

Q: Can I migrate from Dynamics SL to Dynamics 365 Business Central? A: Yes, there is a migration path available to move from Dynamics SL to Dynamics 365 Business Central. We can help you explore this option and discuss the benefits it offers.

Q: What are the licensing costs for Dynamics 365 Business Central? A: The pricing for Dynamics 365 Business Central starts at $70 per user per month for Essentials and $100 per user per month for Premium. Additional options and pricing can be discussed based on your specific requirements.

Q: Is two-factor authentication available for cloud logins? A: Yes, two-factor authentication can be enabled for cloud logins in Office 365. It adds an extra layer of security to protect your data and requires minimal effort to set up.

Q: Can we integrate Dynamics ERP with Concur for time and expense management? A: Yes, integration with Concur is possible for time and expense management, allowing you to streamline your processes and improve efficiency. Other options, such as Expensify, are also available.

Q: Is Management Reporter still the primary financial reporting tool for Dynamics GP? A: While Management Reporter has been the go-to financial reporting tool for Dynamics GP, Microsoft's future direction for reporting tools is yet to be determined. We are actively monitoring this and will provide updates as soon as they become available.

Q: What options are available for multi-entity management? A: Dynamics GP and Business Central offer options for multi-entity management by utilizing separate databases or third-party add-ons. Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations provide a more comprehensive multi-entity management solution within a single database.

Q: Can Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations accommodate EFT for payables? A: Yes, Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations supports Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT) for payables. It allows you to streamline payment processes and improve efficiency in managing vendor payments.