If you are currently running Microsoft Dynamics GP and you would like to migrate to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC), in order to reap the benefits of BC, then you are in luck. Migrating from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is easy because Microsoft has developed tools and wizards specifically for that purpose.
I won’t claim that it is relatively as easy as flicking a switch. Nor will I argue that there aren’t a few caveats. But if you are on a supported version of Dynamics GP, meaning any version released in 2015 or later, the migration tools will work for you.
Just Zip It!
Dynamics GP versions released in 2015 or later, with the latest build deployed, have additional code units that allow you to export data from GP into a separate zip file that is compatible with the migration tool. To create this zip file, just go to the File menu within GP, choose “Maintenance,” and then choose “Export Data.” Once you have saved your zip folder, you can start the migration using the migration tool.
It is as simple as that!
Migration Is a Walk in the Park with Extensions!
The basic migration is a one-time data move. Once you have made that move, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central will be your primary solution. You will only need to use your existing Microsoft Dynamics GP system search across your historical GP data. If you use a connector to a reporting tool, you may also need to access your current GP system for reporting purposes.
Microsoft has been and is still developing Extensions that simplify and facilitate the migration process. The Dynamics GP Data Migration Extension is available on AppSource, and it is free! The following modules can be migrated using the GP Data Migration Extension:
- GL Accounts and Balances
- Customers and Open Receivables Transactions
- Vendors and Open Payables Transactions
- Items and Quantity on Hand
Why can’t you migrate all your GP data by using the Extensions? That’s because there are core differences between the two products, i.e., between Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and specifically Microsoft Dynamics GP on-premise. Therefore, some modules work differently, as compared with Dynamics GP on-premise, and some don’t exist at all.
However, while at this time, only the data mentioned above can be migrated with the help of GP Extensions, Microsoft will soon be adding Extensions that have the ability to migrate historical data for Sales, Purchasing, and Inventory.
It’s a walk in the park!
Meet the Intelligent Edge Tool!
Intelligent Edge is a tool that replicates data from Microsoft Dynamics GP 2018 to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. It makes it simple and easy to duplicate the information from your on-premise GP database to Business Central in the cloud. The tables that can be replicated using this tool include:
- Customers
- Vendors
- Inventory Items
- General Ledger Accounts
- Open Payables
- Open Receivables
For all other versions of Microsoft Dynamics GP, those releases prior to GP 2018, a data migration tool has been expanded since the initial release of Business Central and now allows for more information to be imported into Dynamics 365 Business Central from Dynamics GP.
It’s so easy!
Just follow the Yellow Brick Road that Leads to the Migration Wizard!
The Migration Wizard allows you to choose how to migrate your Dynamics GP Chart of Accounts (COA) to Business Central. You have flexibility. So, either your existing GP Chart of Accounts can be imported into Business Central, or your can create and import a new Chart of Accounts.
Suppose you choose to migrate the existing Chart of Accounts. In that case, the accounts will be set up as the main accounts segment from Dynamics GP, and the additional segments will to set up as dimensions within your new Business Central system.
Suppose you choose to create and migrate a new Chart of Accounts. In that case, an additional account information page in the Migration Wizard will allow you to download the workbook, make the appropriate changes, and then import the workbook into Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central again.
Flexible and easy!
Get Ready, Get Set, and Go!
You have gotten ready for your migration. Now it is time to get set and start the process. It just takes a few easy steps. Under “Setup and Extensions,” you will see an option for “Assisted setup.” Choose that, then click on “Migrate business data.”
From the “Data Migrators” page, you will then be able to select, from among a number of options, “Import from GP.” At this point, you will be asked to choose the export file, which is the original zip file that you previously created. The Extension will kick in and group the information it contains into a table. That table allows you to check whether everything was exported correctly even before the migration process starts. As you continue, the migration tool picks up your data, pushes it up into the Business Central tenant, and maps it to the Business Central application tables.
You are good to go!
Why Migrate from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Business Central Now?
I could quickly tick off a dozen features and benefits of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, but that is a story for another blog. However, there are other compelling reasons to migrate now:
- If you are on any version of Microsoft Dynamics GP below 2015, your Mainstream Support has already ended.
- Microsoft Dynamics GP 2015 is no longer being updated.
- If you are on Microsoft Dynamics GP 2010 or any earlier version, even your Extended Support has already ended.
Take a moment to process the implications. Then…
Take the next step
Contact the Microsoft Dynamics ERP experts at Strategic Systems Group (SSG). You do not have to go through the migration process on your own. We are here to be your guide and help you every step of the way, from creating a zip file for your data to using the readily available migration Extensions, Wizards, and Tools for a smooth move from Dynamics GP to Dynamics Business Central.
Please contact SSG at (310) 539-4645 or via our contact form today!