Recently, Microsoft has made many changes in the ERP world. Perhaps most significant for Dynamics GP users was moving to a Modern Policy regarding its lifecycle and renaming the product simply “Dynamics GP”. They have also invested a lot in migration tools that help existing Dynamics users move to Microsoft’s cloud ERP solution, Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Such distinct moves to a cloud focus have left Dynamics GP users questioning the future of their product. So, is Microsoft implying an end to its support of Dynamics GP? The big question is, “Does this mean Dynamics GP is dead?” and “Is the cloud the only future for ERP?”
The answer is a resounding “NO!” Dynamics GP is not dead, despite what many Microsoft partners are trying to sell you. The reality is that you can remain fully operational on Dynamics GP for many years to come.
Microsoft’s lifecycle roadmap shows dates up to 2028 and beyond, indicating a more extended confirmed date for Modern Lifecycle versus the Fixed Lifecycle versions of Microsoft Dynamics GP. In short, there is no need to move away from Microsoft Dynamics GP any time soon. Microsoft provides GP users an additional seven or more years of continued upgrades, features, and support.
Microsoft released a new version of Dynamics GP last October, which changed the name from “Dynamics GP 2018 R2” to just “Dynamics GP”. Following this new release & name change, Microsoft also announced that Dynamics GP was moving to the “Modern Lifecycle Policy”.
If you are on Dynamics GP and want to stick with the on-premise ERP, you can rest assured that you will have Microsoft’s support for the foreseeable future — provided you stay current with your updates.
Below are a few examples of how we can help your existing Microsoft Dynamic GP implementation:
- We can upgrade your system to the latest version and take advantage of new features and functions.
- We can implement new features and functions that can be used to increase efficiencies, such as Workflow, EFT for Payables, Fixed Assets and Electronic Bank Records, to name a few.
- We can clean up Master Records that can help with better reporting using the tools that you already own.
- We can implement 3rd Party Value-Add Products that can enhance your GP experience with additional functionality right in the software.
- We can build new Executive, Management and Operational Reports in Management Reporter, Excel Refreshable Reports and Power BI as examples.
Here at BHC Group, we have been implementing and supporting Dynamics GP (or Great Plains as it was once known) for many years. We have helped numerous companies achieve business goals on this powerful, adaptable, and renowned platform. Now that Microsoft has definitively put a stake in the ground, extending GP into the future, companies are no longer pressured to consider a migration for business continuity. There are also many companies that have add-ons or are partially or fully integrated with GP which will allow extending the use of the Dynamics GP product while taking full advantage of 3rd party system. This includes but is not limited to sales and operations, procurement, supply chain, payment processing, etc. Contact us at the BHC Group to find out more about your options and which products might be a good fit.
Indeed, many companies outgrow GP, and that’s fine. The good news is that there is no shortage of options within the Microsoft ecosystem or with another vendor. However, if you are happy with the current functionality provided by the GP platform, you are in no rush to move.
If you have more questions about the Microsoft Dynamics GP Roadmap, please do get in touch. We would be more than happy to discuss the future of your Dynamics GP solution and how we can help you choose the best option that best suits your business.
