From Dynamics NAV to Business Central: the ultimate guide

Is it time for new software for your company?
Are you a Dynamics NAV user looking to move to Business Central?
And would you like concrete tips for this?

Although Business Central is often presented as a completely new solution, it is actually the further development of Dynamics NAV. For your organization, this means that the functional core largely builds upon the proven NAV architecture you already know. The transition is a combination of modernization and continuous innovation, with Microsoft constantly adding new features without sacrificing stability.

From evolution to innovation

The biggest change: the delivery model

The most significant change when moving from NAV to Business Central lies not in the buttons you press, but in the way the software is delivered. Where NAV traditionally ran locally, Business Central is designed as a true cloud solution (SaaS).

• Always up-to-date: You are always working with the latest version.
• Security: Microsoft takes care of technical management and security.
• Accessibility: Your ERP data is securely accessible anywhere via the cloud.

Cloud vs. On-Premise: what suits you?

Despite Microsoft’s ‘cloud-first’ strategy, we understand that a direct move to the cloud can be a big step, especially with extensive customization. Therefore, we offer three scenarios:

1. Cloud ERP (SaaS): Microsoft’s strategic focus, where you are completely unburdened.
2. On-Premise ERP: Business Central runs on your own server or infrastructure.
3. Hybrid ERP (Intelligent Edge): The core runs locally, while data synchronizes with the cloud for things like Power BI reporting.

The end of complex upgrades

Do you remember the costly and risky NAV upgrade projects? In the Business Central cloud model, these are a thing of the past. Updates are performed monthly, with a major release twice a year. Because all customers work on the same core application, problems surrounding outdated software and missed security updates disappear.

Customization vs. Apps and Extensions

In the old NAV world, customization was often deeply woven into the code, which complicated upgrades. With Business Central, the strategy shifts toward standard functionality, supplemented by apps via Microsoft AppSource.

• Extensions: Customization is still possible, but it is built as an ‘extension’ alongside the software, so the core of the system remains clean.

Flexibility

You can easily add or remove features via apps without compromising the stability of your ERP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Business Central only for small companies?

No, although it is often positioned that way, it is successfully used by organizations of all sizes and in almost every sector.

What happens to my historical NAV data?

During the migration process, we ensure a secure synchronization or transfer of your data to the new environment.

Can I test updates first?

Certainly. Business Central offers sandbox environments where you can safely test updates and new apps before they are activated in the production environment.