Why sticking with outdated business management systems is risky

And why the end of Microsoft NAV support makes now the time to act

In today’s fast-moving business world, your management system is the backbone of your operations. It streamlines processes, enhances efficiency, and drives growth. But what happens when that backbone is showing its age?

The hidden dangers of outdated systems

Relying on legacy business management systems—sometimes called ERPs—can expose your organisation to a host of risks:

Older systems are more susceptible to cyberattacks. Without regular updates and patches, your data and reputation are at risk. Regulations like GDPR and new standards such as the EU’s CSRD are always evolving. Outdated systems may not keep up, putting you at risk of fines and legal trouble. As your business grows, legacy systems often struggle to keep up. This can mean sluggish performance, downtime, and lost productivity. Modern ERPs offer features—like automation, AI, and cloud access—that can transform your business. Sticking with old software means missing out on these advantages. Outdated systems often lack robust reporting and analytics, making it harder to get the insights you need to make informed decisions.

A real-world example: the end of Microsoft support for NAV

If your business is still running Microsoft Dynamics NAV (formerly Navision), these risks are no longer hypothetical. As of January 2023, all versions of NAV have moved out of Mainstream Support, and some are now out of Extended Support too. This means:

No more new features or security updates from Microsoft.
Increased risk of vulnerabilities and compliance issues.
Difficulty integrating with new technologies and cloud services.
Auditors may flag unsupported software as a business risk.

While it’s possible to keep NAV running with the help of a proactive support partner, this is only a short-term fix. Over time, the risks and limitations will only grow.

What should you do next if you are on a legacy system?

If you’re still using NAV or another legacy system, now is the time to act. Here’s what you should consider:

Assess your current system: Is it holding you back? Are you struggling with integration, compliance, or performance?
Explore your options: Upgrading to a modern, cloud-based ERP like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central can future-proof your business, improve security, and unlock new capabilities.
Plan your migration: Work with an experienced partner to ensure a smooth transition, minimise disruption, and maximise the benefits of your new system.

Don’t let legacy systems hold you back

The risks of outdated business management systems are real—and the end of support for NAV is a clear sign that it’s time to move forward. By upgrading to a modern solution, you’ll protect your business, empower your team, and position yourself for future growth.

Why choose TVT?

At TVT, we specialise in helping businesses make the right move at the right time. Our team of ERP experts will guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth transition and measurable results.

Ready to future-proof your business? Contact TVT today to find out how we can help.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the main risks of using an outdated business management system? Outdated systems expose your business to security vulnerabilities, compliance issues, inefficiencies, and missed opportunities for innovation. They can also hinder your ability to make informed decisions due to poor reporting and analytics.

What does the end of Microsoft support for NAV mean for my business? It means you will no longer receive security updates, bug fixes, or new features from Microsoft. This increases your risk of cyberattacks, compliance breaches, and operational disruptions. Unsupported software may also be flagged as a risk by auditors.

Can I keep using NAV even though support has ended? While it’s technically possible to keep using NAV, it’s not recommended as a long-term solution. The risks and limitations will increase over time, and you may find it harder to integrate with new technologies or stay compliant with regulations.

What are the benefits of upgrading to a modern ERP like Business Central? Upgrading to Business Central gives you access to the latest security features, cloud capabilities, automation, and real-time analytics. It helps future-proof your business, improves efficiency, and supports compliance with evolving regulations.