Key Insights from Dynamics Summit 2024 for Dynamics Business Central and GP Users
Why Dynamics Summit 2024 Matters for Business Central Users
In October, Dynamics Summit 2024 brought together leaders, experts, and users from across the Microsoft Dynamics community to discuss innovations and strategic updates. This annual event is a valuable resource for Dynamics users—especially those using Business Central (BC) and GP (Great Plains), as it showcases key advancements that enhance ERP capabilities, streamline operations, and address future needs.
For Business Central users, the Summit spotlighted new features, enhanced integration, and improved usability, all aimed at empowering users to optimize their operations. For GP users, the news was a mix of updates and guidance as Microsoft rolls out its end-of-life (EOL) support for GP. In this blog, we break down the significant takeaways from the Summit and explain how Crestwood remains committed to supporting both BC and GP users through this evolving ERP landscape.
Key Updates from Dynamics Summit 2024 for Business Central Users
Growing Capabilities in Financial Management
Business Central is continuing to expand its financial management capabilities, making it an increasingly powerful tool for businesses looking to automate and streamline their accounting. With updates focused on real-time analytics, automation for routine tasks, and comprehensive financial reporting, BC is becoming indispensable for companies aiming to make data-driven decisions.
- Enhanced Accounting and Budget Tracking: BC’s new tools allow for more accurate budget forecasting and cash flow analysis. These updates are designed to save users time, reduce manual errors, and improve financial visibility.
- Automated Processes: Routine financial tasks, such as reconciliations and payment processing, are now easier to automate, freeing up time for finance teams to focus on strategic work.
For example, a midsize retail client of Crestwood’s was able to leverage BC’s new analytics tools for better stock management and demand forecasting, ultimately reducing overstock costs and improving customer satisfaction.
Improved Data Integration and Usability
Business Central’s integration capabilities are stronger than ever. Now, BC users can seamlessly connect their ERP with Power BI, Teams, and Microsoft 365, streamlining collaboration and enabling real-time access to critical data.
- Advanced Integrations: BC’s integrations allow departments to share data effortlessly across platforms, improving teamwork and reducing siloed information. This integration helps businesses respond faster and more accurately to changing conditions.
- Enhanced User Experience: With customized dashboards and role-specific features, BC users now have access to a more intuitive and personalized interface that allows employees to focus on relevant KPIs.
For a manufacturing client of Crestwood’s, these role-specific dashboards have significantly improved efficiency, giving procurement, finance, and production teams access to the data they need without clutter.
Security and Compliance Updates
As data security continues to be a major concern, Microsoft has bolstered BC with enhanced compliance and cybersecurity tools. These updates are particularly relevant for businesses in regulated industries, such as healthcare and finance, which must meet strict regulatory standards.
- Compliance Tools: Business Central now includes expanded tools to help companies align with industry regulations, such as GDPR and SOX, which are vital for data privacy and security.
- Cybersecurity Enhancements: With stronger data encryption, multi-factor authentication, and advanced threat protection, BC ensures a secure environment for sensitive information.
A healthcare company using BC, for example, benefits from these added layers of security to keep patient data safe, a priority for Crestwood clients who operate in highly regulated sectors.
Insights for GP Users: Preparing for the Future
Dynamics GP End of Life and Migration Options
Microsoft has announced a phased end-of-life plan for Dynamics GP, limiting updates and support over the coming years. While this signals a shift in Microsoft’s ERP strategy, Crestwood remains committed to helping GP users find the best solution for their business—whether that means transitioning to BC or continuing with GP.
- Exploring Migration to Business Central: Business Central is a logical next step for GP users who want to move to a cloud-based ERP with similar functionality. For industries like construction, where customized solutions are often essential, BC’s flexibility makes it a great fit.
- Crestwood’s Ongoing GP Support: For those not ready to make the shift, Crestwood offers extensive support, including regular updates, troubleshooting, and consultations to keep GP running smoothly.
For instance, Crestwood recently assisted a distribution company with a seamless transition from GP to BC, improving their reporting and inventory tracking capabilities. For GP users who want to stay put for now, Crestwood also offers a one-hour free consultation on Microsoft Marketplace to help explore their options.
Key Considerations for Staying vs. Migrating
Deciding whether to stay on GP or move to Business Central is a big decision. GP may remain a stable choice for businesses not quite ready to migrate, but it’s important to consider factors like cost, scalability, and future compatibility with modern tech.
- Benefits of Staying: If your current system is running smoothly and integrations are set, staying with GP might make sense, especially if migration costs are a concern.
- Advantages of Migrating: Business Central offers improved integration, automated workflows, and advanced analytics tools that can future-proof your ERP solution.
Our consultants at Crestwood help each client evaluate these factors to determine the best path forward, so whether you’re ready for Business Central or prefer to stay with GP for now, we’ll help make sure you’re maximizing your investment.
Why Crestwood Associates is Your Trusted Dynamics Partner
Expertise Across Dynamics Platforms
Crestwood has a wealth of experience with both Business Central and GP, making us uniquely equipped to support clients through any stage of their ERP journey. Whether you’re staying with GP or looking to migrate, we provide a customer-centric approach, working with each client to evaluate their needs and make informed decisions.
- Personalized Service and Real-World Success Stories: Our focus is on understanding each client’s industry, operations, and goals to tailor recommendations that work best for them. For example, we recently helped a midsize construction company transition to BC, automating workflows and enhancing project tracking.
Long-Term Partnerships and Comprehensive Support
Crestwood is dedicated to being a partner, not just a service provider. We take a long-term approach, guiding our clients through every step, whether they’re on GP or Business Central.
- Migration and Support Plans: For clients ready to move to BC, we provide a thorough migration plan, including assessments, implementation, and training. For those staying on GP, we offer continual support to help maintain their systems effectively.
With a focus on transparency, adaptability, and customer success, Crestwood aims to build long-lasting partnerships that empower clients to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.
Ready to Learn More About Dynamics Business Central?
If you’re a Dynamics GP or BC user and want to learn more about your options, Crestwood is here to help. We offer personalized consultations to help you explore the best ERP solution for your business, understand the latest updates, and make informed decisions for the future.
Conclusion: Takeaways from Dynamics Summit 2024 for Your Business
For Business Central users, Dynamics Summit 2024 delivered exciting insights and new tools that emphasize scalability, integration, and security. For GP users, it underscored Microsoft’s shift toward cloud-based solutions, but also Crestwood’s unwavering support through end-of-life or migration decisions. With Crestwood as your ERP partner, you’ll have a trusted advisor helping you navigate changes and ensuring your ERP solution aligns with your long-term business goals.
