For organizations still using Microsoft Dynamics GP, 2029 may seem like plenty of time to replace the system. In ERP terms, it isn’t. Selecting and implementing a new ERP is a significant undertaking, which is why organizations should start planning now.
Microsoft is encouraging GP customers to move to Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC), but BC should not be viewed as a simple upgrade. Moving from GP to BC is effectively a new ERP implementation, with configuration, integrations, data conversion, testing and training all needing to be addressed. If you are going through that effort, it makes sense to determine whether BC is actually the best fit. Use this as ab opportunity to see what else is available.
The ERP market has changed considerably since many GP systems were originally selected, with new products, cloud platforms and capabilities now available. BC may ultimately be the right choice, but it should be evaluated against other systems that meet the organization’s current and future requirements. ERP selection and implementation both take time. Starting now gives organizations the opportunity to properly evaluate the market, select the right system and plan the implementation without being forced into a decision by the GP support timeline.
