Microsoft GP retirement: what’s next for GP users?

If you’re a GP user, the thought of losing a reliable system can be daunting. But you’re not alone. As part of Microsoft’s wider movement to the Cloud, support for the legacy on-premises system, Dynamics GP, will end in September 2029. With change comes opportunity and the right partner can help you navigate this transition smoothly. Here’s what you need to know about the timeline and your options for moving forward. 

 

Key Dates for Microsoft Dynamics GP 

• September 2029: End of product support for Dynamics GP. No further product enhancements or regulatory updates will be released. 
• April 2031: End of security updates for Dynamics GP. 

 

What are your options for replacing Dynamics GP?

 

1. Continue on GP until 2031 
You can continue using GP until security updates end in April 2031. However, this approach carries increasing risk, as unsupported systems are more vulnerable to security breaches and performance issues. A proactive transition is strongly recommended. 

 

2. Implement Business Central from scratch 
Start fresh with Business Central by importing your master records and open transactions, with support from a trusted partner. (See below for why Business Central is the ideal replacement.)

 

3. Migrate data from GP to Business Central 
For a smooth and secure transition, update your master records in GP and use Microsoft Cloud’s Migration Tool to move your data, including historical records, directly into Business Central. 

 

4. Consider a new ERP solution 
While you can explore other ERP systems, if you’re already invested in Microsoft technologies, Business Central offers the most seamless transition and user experience. 

Want to understand the migration process in detail? Visit Microsoft Learn. 

 

Why move to Business Central? Eight key benefits for GP users 

 

1. Modern, cloud-based ERP 
Business Central is a cloud solution, delivering regular security and feature updates at no extra cost. Updates are released every April and October. 

2. Seamless Microsoft integration 
Business Central integrates effortlessly with the Microsoft stack—including Windows Server, SQL Server, Azure, Microsoft 365, Dynamics, and Power Platform—making it easy to expand as your business grows. 

3. AI capabilities 
With Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot, Business Central users benefit from advanced features like AI-generated marketing text and autonomous sales order agents, empowering your teams for future growth. 

4. Role-tailored user interface 
Personalise the user experience with Role Centre functionality, delivering relevant data and analytics to each user. 

5. Dimensions for flexible reporting 
Business Central’s Dimensions feature allows you to analyse financial data in multiple ways, streamlining month-end reporting and freeing up your team’s time. 

6. Easy record corrections 
Mistakes are simple to fix, just update the customer card with no need to edit master records. 

7. Flexible licensing 
Business Central’s subscription model is cost-effective and scalable, letting you pay only for what you need and adjust as your business evolves. 

8. Scalability 
Business Central grows with your business, supporting your ambitions and future plans. 

 

Ready to Plan Your Move? 

If you’re using Microsoft GP, now is the time to plan your transition to a cloud-based ERP like Business Central. As one of the UK’s most experienced Business Central and NAV providers, we’re here to help you succeed.

Book a demo to see these benefits in action, or contact us to discuss your next steps.