Microsoft has consistently led the charge in the enterprise resource planning (ERP) landscape with its array of solutions tailored to varied business requirements. Dynamics NAV has been the go-to system for organizations in need of solid operational management. Yet, the emergence of Business Central, a cloud-native iteration of NAV, prompts the question: what compels a business to switch?

Evolution of Dynamics NAV to Business Central

Dynamics NAV’s storied legacy of equipping businesses with extensive financial and supply chain management tools is well-documented. With the march of technology, Microsoft evolved its offerings, culminating in the creation of Business Central. This platform, while rooted in the legacy of Dynamics NAV, ushers in a host of contemporary features and capabilities designed for the modern business environment.

Features of Business Central

Crowned as 2023’s premier ERP system, Business Central marks a significant advancement in ERP solutions, boasting an array of features aimed at simplifying business processes and fostering growth. Highlighted features include:

Cloud-Based Infrastructure: Business Central’s cloud infrastructure guarantees uninterrupted access to vital data and applications, facilitating collaboration and organizational agility. This enables teams to operate with heightened efficiency and effectiveness.

Unified Platform: Business Central integrates flawlessly with other Microsoft offerings like Office 365, Power Platform, and Azure, creating a cohesive environment that enhances productivity and teamwork through well-known tools and applications.

Advanced Reporting and Analytics: With powerful reporting and analytics tools, Business Central equips leaders with instant insights into crucial business metrics and indicators. Customizable dashboards and dynamic reports offer a clear view into company operations, supporting well-informed strategic decisions.

Scalability and Flexibility: Business Central stands out for its adaptability and scalability. It grows with the business, adjusting to new demands and enabling a smooth scaling of ERP systems without interruption.

Built-in AI and Machine Learning: Business Central incorporates cutting-edge AI and machine learning to streamline tasks, refine processes, and bolster decision-making. Leveraging predictive analytics and smart suggestions, it utilizes AI to propel organizational efficiency and innovation.

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Benefits of Upgrading to Business Central

Enhanced Functionality and Features

Microsoft reports that Business Central delivers a 172% ROI over three years for adopters of its cloud solution. This cloud infrastructure provides uninterrupted access to essential data and applications, enhancing organizational collaboration and agility.

The shift of Business Central to a cloud-based model marks a significant evolution in ERP systems. Previously, all developments and modifications were written in the C/AL language and were integral to the core system. This meant that updates and upgrades required extensive review, unpicking, and potential redevelopment of the entire system.

However, with Dynamics 365 Business Central, Microsoft has made an important change by introducing the AL language for developing modifications. This shift allows modifications to be created as extensions, eliminating the need for C/AL. This move has transformed the landscape, offering users unlimited choices of extensions that are easy to install and integrate.

Moreover, Business Central features an intuitive interface that simplifies navigation and boosts productivity. Its seamless integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, including Office 365 and Power Platform, offers a cohesive environment that bolsters productivity and teamwork.

Scalability and Flexibility

One of the key benefits of Business Central is its scalability, offering the ability to seamlessly adapt and grow alongside our expanding business needs. As companies evolve and operational requirements shift, Business Central's flexible design allows for easy scaling of ERP solutions.

Moreover, Business Central empowers businesses with unparalleled flexibility by providing access to a vast array of extensions created by independent vendors directly from the Microsoft AppSource. This means you can download and install extensions tailored to specific needs, test their functionalities, and swiftly integrate or remove them based on evolving requirements.

Additionally, with Business Central operating as an ERP on the cloud, the burden of managing physical infrastructure is eliminated. This means that scaling up is as simple as reaching out to your partner to request additional hosting space and adjust plans.

A recent Forrester Consulting study showcased the practical advantages of transitioning from Dynamics NAV to Business Central, revealing a significant 20% decrease in manual data entry and over $40K in infrastructure cost savings for firms.

Streamlined Processes and Increased Productivity

At the heart of Business Central’s offerings is process automation, which aligns perfectly with Microsoft's recent survey findings on business trends. According to the survey, a staggering 89 percent of individuals utilizing automation and AI-powered tools feel more fulfilled, as they can dedicate their time to meaningful work.

Business Central revolutionizes small and medium-sized businesses by bringing the power of AI into their operations. With features designed to help companies work smarter, adapt faster, and perform better, Business Central empowers businesses to thrive in today's dynamic landscape.

For instance, consider the innovative capabilities of Copilot within Business Central. Product managers can now save valuable time and drive sales with AI-generated product descriptions. With Copilot's assistance, these descriptions are not only engaging but also customizable to reflect the brand's unique tone of voice, format, and length. Furthermore, the seamless integration allows for effortless publishing to platforms like Shopify or other e-commerce stores, all achieved with just a few clicks.

Cost-effectiveness and Reduced Maintenance

Business Central's subscription model not only guarantees predictable expenses but also eliminates the necessity for substantial initial hardware and infrastructure investments. Moreover, several companies have reported significant savings on developmental expenses by transitioning to Business Central. Refining its new platform costs considerably less than the cost of customizing its old systems.

Additionally, with Business Central's cloud-based nature, there's a notable reduction in ongoing maintenance and upgrade costs. This allows companies to allocate resources more efficiently, focusing on their core activities rather than IT upkeep.

Furthermore, organizations have benefitted from substantial cost savings, approximately $25,000 annually, in fees, licenses, and hardware support required by their on-premise systems.

Steps to a Successful Upgrade

Proper planning and preparation are crucial for a successful upgrade to Business Central. Conducting a detailed evaluation of the current system, working with skilled consultants, and carrying out thorough testing and validation is important. Providing extensive training and support for staff is also essential to encourage adoption and fully realize the advantages of Business Central.

Ready to Make the Switch?

Ultimately, upgrading from Dynamics NAV to Business Central is a strategic investment in your company’s future. Business Central equips organizations to excel in the modern digital economy with improved functionality, scalability, and cost-effectiveness. Embracing this change and harnessing Business Central’s transformative potential opens up new avenues for growth, innovation, and achievement.

With Novulis’ Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central service, you can unlock the full potential of your ERP system. Ready to explore the infinite possibilities of this upgrade? Contact our experts today!