Upgrading from Microsoft Dynamics GP to 1Staff on Microsoft Business Central

Exciting News from Professional Advantage!

As we ring in 2025, we bring you some exciting news from Microsoft that demonstrates how valuable your feedback is and how closely Microsoft listens to its user community. Microsoft has announced an update to the Dynamics GP lifecycle—a late gift for all GP users!

Initially, product support and updates for Microsoft Dynamics GP were scheduled to end on September 30, 2029, with security patches continuing until April 30, 2031. However, in response to feedback from events like Summit and other interactions with customers and partners, Microsoft has extended product support and updates through December 31, 2029. This change ensures that your tax year-end processes for 1099, W2, T4, and RL-1 forms—along with US and Canada tax updates—remain supported for the 2029 financial year removing the pressure to upgrade ERP systems mid-year.

While this announcement offers a temporary reprieve, it also underscores a fundamental truth: Dynamics GP is entering its twilight years. This extended timeline presents an excellent chance to carefully plan your move to a modern, future-ready ERP solution. That’s where Professional Advantage comes in.

Why Upgrade to 1Staff on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central?

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC) is the natural evolution of Dynamics GP—an enhanced, cloud-ready solution designed to meet today’s business demands and tomorrow’s challenges. Unlike switching to a completely different ERP platform, upgrading to Business Central makes better use of familiar data, and significantly reduces the cost, complexity, and risk normally associated with a brand-new ERP deployment. Here’s why it’s the logical upgrade choice:

1. Easier, Safer, and More Cost-Effective Path

• Familiar Interface and Processes: Business Central uses many of the concepts and data structures from GP, making adoption faster and more intuitive.
• Streamlined Data Migration: Because it’s a Microsoft-to-Microsoft upgrade, templated data conversion and mapping are simpler and less error-prone than jumping to a completely new system.
• Lower Total Cost of Ownership: With built-in compatibility and fewer third-party customizations, you’ll save on support, licensing, and maintenance over time.

2. Cloud-Powered Flexibility

Access your ERP anytime, anywhere with the scalability, security, and reliability of Microsoft’s cloud ecosystem.

3. Tight Integration with Microsoft 365 Tools

Seamlessly collaborate using Teams, Power BI, PowerApps, and other familiar tools that make day-to-day tasks more efficient.

4. Advanced Analytics and AI Capabilities

Gain deeper insights through robust reporting, real-time analytics, and AI-driven features that help you make data-informed decisions.

5. Regular Updates and Long-Term Viability

Business Central receives continuous enhancements and new capabilities, ensuring your system keeps pace with market changes and technology innovations.

Professional Advantage: Your Upgrade Partner

Upgrading from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central is an exciting milestone that calls for specialized expertise. Here’s why Professional Advantage is your ideal partner for a smooth and successful move:

The Best Time to Act is Now

Although Dynamics GP’s support has been extended to 2029, wise organizations will use this breathing room to plan their upgrade carefully.
An orderly, well-executed upgrade:

• Avoids the last-minute rush many businesses face as the end-of-life date nears.
  
  
• Maximizes Business Central’s benefits by allowing sufficient time to tailor the solution to your needs and train your staff.
  
  
• Ensures a Smooth Transition with minimal business disruption, thanks to the familiar Microsoft framework.
  
  
• Offers a Safer, More Cost-Effective Path compared to adopting an entirely new ERP system—no need to rip-and-replace your core business processes.

Ready to explore how Business Central can elevate your operations?

Our team at Professional Advantage will guide you through every step of your GP to BC upgrade journey, ensuring you achieve real, long-term success with minimal risk and optimal ROI.