Microsoft Dynamics GP Sunsetting

In September 2024, Microsoft announced that they will be ending product support and updates for Dynamics Great Plains (GP) on September 30, 2029, and ceasing security patches on April 30, 2031. If you’re a Dynamics GP user, you may feel uncertain about what this means for your business. However, there’s no need to worry—there are plenty of options to keep your systems running smoothly.

Stay Calm, You’ve Got Time

First and foremost, there’s no need to panic. Our specialists have decades of experience working with GP, and we can assure you there are ways to navigate these changes effectively. Microsoft has set an end date for GP support, but that doesn’t mean your business will be left without options. While Microsoft has announced an end date for GP, it’s possible that the timeline could push out further, but it would not end sooner than announced. We’ve seen instances where end dates were pushed back, products were sold, or enhancements were outsourced. Regardless, you have a minimum of five years of support remaining, potentially longer.

Start by asking yourself, “Is GP still working well for my business?” If the answer is “yes”, then can continue as you are for the foreseeable future. The key is to evaluate your current needs and proceed with care, rather than rushing into a new solution.

Anticipate Increased Attention from Vendors

With this announcement, you may experience heightened solicitation by Microsoft and/or your GP partner, urging you to migrate to Dynamics 365 Business Central (D365 BC) or Finance and Operations (F&O). These cloud-based solutions offer several advantages which can be weighed, but don’t feel pressured into making an immediate switch. Again, if GP is still working for your business, there’s no reason to rush into a migration.

Look Before You Leap

Transitioning to a new ERP is a significant project, just like your original GP implementation. It requires careful planning, budgeting, and consideration.

A typical ERP implementation for a small to medium-sized business could cost anywhere from $50,000 to $100,000, plus software costs. Before jumping into a new solution, weigh the pros and considerations of the effect it can have on your business, the disruption of operations and potential burden it may place on your staff.

Should You Stay on the Enhancement Plan?

Your annual enhancement plan gives you access to service packs, new releases, and important updates (like payroll and tax forms). It also allows you to purchase new users for GP beyond 2029. If you let your enhancement plan lapse, re-enrollment would require back payments for the missed years.

We recommend staying on the enhancement plan to ensure you can continue receiving updates and support as long as GP remains viable for your business. New features are still being added to GP (including GP 18.8) and the product continues to evolve based on user feedback.

Payroll Solutions

For businesses using GP Payroll, the end of support shouldn’t cause immediate concern. Microsoft and third-party providers have already discussed plans to take over the year-end updates for payroll. Alternatively, you could outsource your payroll processing while continuing to use GP for other financial operations, with payroll data imported into the general ledger.

What About Support?

The lack of official Microsoft support after 2029 is not something to cause immediate concern. Most businesses rarely rely on Microsoft for support. With the wealth of third-party resources available and decades of experience among consultants like DCS, there will continue to be options for resolving any issues you encounter.

Understand Your EDI Options

While you remain on GP there is no need to update your EDI interface, although if it’s giving you trouble that’s always worth addressing. EDI should be an advantage, not a detriment. If you do consider moving away from GP, it will require significant updates to your EDI, including perhaps a new system. Know that no matter what ERP you choose, there are always multiple options for managing EDI. As always, beware the buzzwords and don’t feel pressured by anyone who tells you that you need to do your EDI a certain way.

What Should You Do Now?

The most important thing to remember is to stay calm, you’ve got time. GP will continue to work after September 30, 2029, and many companies plan to support it for years to come. If you’re currently on an enhancement plan, stay current with software updates and take advantage of new features.

If you’re unsure about what steps to take, we’re here to help. Whether it’s assessing whether GP still fits your business needs, exploring alternatives, or understanding your EDI options, we can provide the guidance you need to make an informed decision. Reach out and let’s discuss options.