Microsoft Dynamics Great Plains (GP) is a platform that has been hanging around for decades, and over the years, the classic software has powered the maturation of countless businesses.
Of course, if your company is among the thousands that have relied upon and benefited from the Microsoft Dynamics GP platform, you may not be too keen on getting rid of it, but now is the perfect time to move on. In fact, many companies are already leaving Microsoft Dynamics GP for Acumatica ERP software.
With that being said, here are four reasons why you should make the switch from Dynamics GP to Acumatica ERP software:
1. Microsoft Is Sunsetting Dynamics GP
As you have probably heard, Microsoft is preparing to sunset Dynamics GP. They have already discontinued mainstream support for all Dynamics GP versions, along with extended support for Dynamics GP 2013 and GP 2013 R2, in April 2023. By 2028, Microsoft plans to discontinue support for all GP versions, including GP 2018 and GP 2018 R2.
In the meantime, Microsoft is publishing minimal features for Dynamics GP. With the rare exception, these features are limited to routine bug fixes and updates necessary for maintaining general functionality.
Even if your version of Dynamics GP is still receiving extended support, you won’t be able to obtain the same level of assistance you may have once been accustomed to, which means if you encounter a major issue with your GP solution, you and your IT team will be on your own.
2. Clinging to Old Software Will Hold You Back
Even if you and your team are confident in your ability to maintain Dynamics GP for the foreseeable future, switching to a modern platform still makes sense.
Businesses that cling to Microsoft Dynamics GP until the 2028 deadline will be falling behind organizations that are currently taking a forward-thinking approach, as GP simply cannot keep pace with modern ERP software like Acumatica.
Acumatica releases major updates for its platform several times each year, whereas Microsoft is focusing its resources on GP’s replacement, Microsoft Dynamics 365. Don’t settle for the technology of yesteryear when you can access the latest and greatest tools as they are released.
3. Cloud Platforms Like Acumatica Are the Future
In its heyday, Microsoft GP was a force to be reckoned with, but it has been met and surpassed by more robust cloud-based solutions like Acumatica ERP software.
One of the biggest shortfalls of Dynamics GP is its on-premise deployment model. While managing your ERP on-site does offer some advantages, cloud-based software is the future, and the future is now.
With a cloud-based solution like Acumatica ERP software, you have the freedom to choose your deployment model. You can implement Acumatica on a public, private, or hybrid cloud. You can even implement the software on-premise if doing so still makes sense for your business.
4. Acumatica Edges Out Dynamics 365 in Several Key Areas
If you have been a long-time Dynamics GP user, upgrading to Dynamics 365 may seem like the most logical path forward for your business. After all, Dynamics 365 has a built-in Data Migration Wizard designed to help you move your data from GP to the new 365 platform.
Before you move from Dynamics GP to 365, however, you would have to perform all the usual preparations, such as planning the migration, building a team, mapping your data, and cleansing it. If you are going to navigate all of the same steps either way, it simply makes more sense to go with the better platform.
Acumatica is the clear choice because of qualities such as:
- Better ROI than Dynamics 365
- Full relational database support
- Customization using industry-standard tools
- Flexible licensing options to keep costs down
Acumatica gives you the freedom to deploy the platform on your terms, and the vendor makes use of a unique pricing model that allows you to enroll as many users as you’d like without incurring additional licensing costs.
Ready to Move On From Dynamics GP? ASC Can Help
Advanced Solutions & Consulting Co. is a full-service Acumatica implementation partner. From planning to post-deployment support, we ensure that you enjoy a frictionless implementation and a strong return on investment. When you are ready to make your move to Acumatica ERP software, contact ASC.
Additional Resources
How Real Customers are Benefitting from Switching from Dynamics GP to Acumatica
The End of Dynamics GP: Why it’s Time to Switch to a Modern Cloud ERP
Migrating from Dynamics GP to Acumatica: 5 Reasons to Make the Move