Microsoft Dynamics GP

Microsoft is channeling its innovation and investment into cloud solutions and technologies. We are convinced that cloud solutions elevate business performance through AI capabilities and enhanced security. Consequently, we are accelerating our investment in Dynamics 365 Business Central to address the ERP needs of small and medium-sized businesses.

For clients on the current version of Dynamics GP (currently v18.6), Microsoft does not expect to create additional security updates beyond April 30, 2031.

For clients on a legacy version of Dynamics GP covered by the Fixed Lifecycle Policy (GP 2018 R2 or earlier), support ends on the dates published on the Microsoft lifecycle website (see https://microsoft.com/lifecycle), which are sooner than April 30, 2031.

In either case, current policy permits clients with an active Service Plan (e.g., AP) to download previously released security updates for their version of Dynamics GP, even if such download occurs after the applicable end of support date(s) for that version. Policies are subject to change.

Currently clients with an active Service Plan (e.g., AP) may purchase additional user licenses for their existing system, even if such purchase occurs after the applicable end of support date(s). Policies are subject to change.

Currently clients may renew their Service Plans (e.g., EP, AP, Advantage Plans) beyond their end of support date(s), however, product support benefits including upgrades and incident support are not provided by such plans beyond end of support dates as described in the first question of these FAQs. See Microsoft Services and Support Policy Guide (PSBC log-in required) for which benefits are available before and after end of support dates. Policies are subject to change.

Extended Security Updates or ESUs (which provide critical security updates beyond end of support) are not expected to be offered for Dynamics GP products.

Clients with a perpetual license for Dynamics GP may continue using their licensed solution beyond its end of support date, however, use of a then-unsupported product is not recommended.

Currently clients with a subscription license for Dynamics GP are not blocked from renewing their subscription license on Dynamics GP’s end of support date, but doing so is not recommended as the product would no longer be supported. Permitting such continued use will be reviewed and may change.

With careful planning, your data and processes can be migrated efficiently. A good partner will audit your current system, identify gaps or inefficiencies, and ensure critical data is transferred securely. Some manual adjustments may be necessary, but modern cloud solutions are designed to integrate well with most existing workflows.

Minimizing disruption starts with thorough planning and phased implementation. Migrate data in stages, schedule training sessions at convenient times, and conduct comprehensive testing before going live. Partnering with experienced professionals ensures potential issues are anticipated and addressed promptly.

Dynamics 365 Business Central has benefited from extensive development and enhancement in recent years and many features/processes that once required customization are included in the base product. In addition, there has been tremendous growth in ISV extensions for Business Central, providing cost-effective solutions for client and industry-specific requirements. Work with a knowledgeable partner like Stoneridge to learn more about a smooth migration.

The transition typically involves:

1. Assessing your current system and business needs.
2. Choosing the right cloud solution.
3. Creating a migration plan, including timelines and budgets.
4. Migrating your data securely and testing the new system.
5. Training employees and launching the new solution.
6. Ongoing support and optimization.

Breaking this into phases makes the process manageable and reduces disruption.