Why Businesses Are Moving from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central

By - June 23, 2025

As businesses continue to grow and adapt to new digital demands, many are reevaluating their legacy ERP systems. One of the most common transitions today is the move from Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2012 to Dynamics 365 Business Central. While NAV was a powerful solution in its time, Business Central brings modern capabilities that better align with today’s fast-paced, data-driven world.

Here’s why the shift makes sense:

1. Smarter Financial Management
NAV offered the basics: general ledger, AP/AR, fixed assets, and cash flow tools. Business Central elevates this with AI-driven budgeting, bank reconciliation, and forward-looking cash flow projections—giving finance teams more foresight and automation.

2. Enhanced Supply Chain Capabilities
While NAV handled inventory and warehouse management well, Business Central adds vendor management, order fulfillment, and integrates with e-commerce platforms like Shopify—making it a better fit for omnichannel operations.

3. Real-Time Project Visibility
NAV supported project costing and tracking, but Business Central introduces real-time updates on resource utilization and job costing—helping teams stay agile and accountable.

4. Built for Modern Manufacturing
Unlike NAV, Business Central supports detailed bills of materials, production orders, and assembly-to-order processes, making it a much stronger choice for manufacturers.

5. Better Business Intelligence
Where NAV had advanced reporting, Business Central delivers real-time dashboards and AI-powered insights—turning data into action faster.

6. Embracing the Cloud and Automation
Perhaps the biggest leap: Business Central is cloud-based, scalable, and integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft tools. It also brings automation and AI into the core experience, from workflows to forecasting.

In short, Dynamics 365 Business Central isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a transformation. For businesses still running on NAV, now is the time to consider whether your ERP is holding you back from smarter, faster, more connected operations. Ready to modernize your ERP? Connect with RSM today and explore how we can support your upgrade.

Caleb supports the go-to-market aspects of the Microsoft and NetSuite teams, focusing on industrial companies in the manufacturing, automotive, energy, and distribution sectors. With a wealth of experience in marketing, Caleb excels at content creation, developing creative and analytical strategies, and advising on best practices. His proficiency in navigating immediate needs and providing proactive recommendations makes him a valuable asset to the team. Caleb's commitment to improving working methods within RSM’s go-to-market strategy ensures effective collaboration and successful outcomes for the organization.

Contact our team to learn more!

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