Dynamics GP End of Support

In a recent announcement, Microsoft confirmed the end of mainstream support for Dynamics GP. This marks a critical juncture for businesses relying on this trusted ERP system. In this post, we’ll break down what the end of support means, its potential impact on your business, and steps you can take to ensure a smooth transition.

What Is Happening?

On September 25, 2024, Microsoft officially announced that they will be ending mainstream support for Dynamics GP on September 30, 2029. After the final update, there will no longer be regular security updates, bug fixes, or feature enhancements. Businesses that continue using GP beyond this point will be at increased risk of security vulnerabilities and lack access to critical updates. Read Microsoft’s announcement here:  Announcing End of Support for Dynamics GP – Microsoft Dynamics 365 Blog

Why This Matters for Your Business

For businesses using Dynamics GP, the end of support brings several key challenges:

1. Security Risks: Without regular updates, your system will be more vulnerable to cyberattacks and data breaches.
2. Compliance Concerns: Many industries require up-to-date systems for compliance with data protection laws like GDPR or CCPA.
3. Functionality Decline: As your ERP is no longer being actively maintained, you may experience declining system performance and compatibility issues with other software.
4. Limited Support: If issues arise after the end of support, finding specialized third-party support could become increasingly difficult and costly.

What Are Your Options?

If you’re currently using Dynamics GP, here are your main options:

1. Upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central:
   Dynamics 365 Business Central is Microsoft’s cloud-based ERP system that offers more flexibility, scalability, and integrated cloud services. Transitioning to Business Central will ensure that your system stays up-to-date with the latest technology and compliance requirements.
   • Cloud Benefits: Moving to the cloud allows for better scalability, security, and access to continuous updates.
   • Integration with Microsoft Ecosystem: Business Central integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft products like Office 365, Power BI, and Teams.
2. Explore Other ERP Solutions:
   Besides Business Central, there are other ERP solutions worth considering. Two leading alternatives are:
   • Oracle NetSuite: A cloud-based ERP with strong financial management and scalability for growing businesses.
   • Sage Intacct: Known for its financial management capabilities, Sage Intacct is particularly well-suited for mid-sized businesses looking for a robust cloud ERP system.
3. Extend Support and Stay on GP Temporarily:
   For companies that need more time, extending support via third-party vendors can be a stop-gap solution. RSM plans to offer Managed Application Services for Dynamics GP beyond Microsoft’s end-of-support date. However, this should be seen as a temporary solution, as the risks and costs of staying on an unsupported system will continue to grow.

RSM Managed Services for Dynamics GP

RSM offers Managed Application Services specifically designed for Dynamics GP, ensuring that businesses using GP continue to receive vital support even after Microsoft’s end-of-support date. These services include ongoing system maintenance, security updates, and technical support, allowing you to extend the life of your GP system while preparing for a long-term ERP solution.

Learn more about RSM’s managed services here: RSM Managed Application Services for Microsoft Dynamics GP.

Strategizing Your Next Steps

Deciding how to move forward after the end of support for Dynamics GP is a complex decision. To help clients navigate this transition, RSM has a dedicated Resource Center for GP clients. This resource provides insights, guidance, and tools to help you evaluate your current system, explore your options, and develop a migration plan.

Visit the Resource Center here: RSM Dynamics GP Resource Center.

Share Your Input – Take Our Dynamics GP Survey!

We’d like to hear from you! RSM is conducting a survey to gather insights from companies on their plans regarding Dynamics GP. Will you continue using GP, or are you planning to move to another ERP system?

Take the survey here: RSM Dynamics GP Survey

Your input will help shape the future of Dynamics GP support and services.

In summary:

The end of support for Dynamics GP is a significant milestone, but it also presents an opportunity for companies to modernize their ERP systems. By acting now, you can mitigate risks and position your business for future growth with a more flexible and secure solution.

If you have questions about your Dynamics GP transition, need help exploring new ERP solutions like Dynamics 365, Oracle NetSuite, or Sage Intacct, or are interested in RSM’s Managed Application Services, our team is here to assist. Contact us today to discuss your options.

Tom Burtner

Thomas Burtner is a consulting services partner with the business applications practice at RSM US LLP. He specializes in providing technology strategy, system selection, packaged software implementation, application development, business intelligence implementation, systems integration and technology project management services to clients throughout RSM. Tom is the national leader for the Dynamics GP/SL practice which consists of over 30 consultants supporting over 800 existing clients.