For years, Microsoft Dynamics GP (Great Plains) has been a reliable ERP system for managing financials, inventory, and operations. However, as business needs evolve, not only are many GP users are realizing that its limitations—especially in terms of flexibility, cloud integration, and cash flow forecasting—are starting to hold them back, but GP now has a sunset date. To stay competitive, businesses need modern tools that provide real-time insights, scalability, and deeper forecasting capabilities.

The combination of Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Dryrun offers a full-fledged ERP and cash flow forecasting solution, providing an upgrade path that brings flexibility, enhanced integration, and forward-looking financial management. Here's why GP users should consider making the switch.

1. Cloud-Native Flexibility and Scalability

Microsoft Dynamics GP was initially designed as an on-premise solution, meaning businesses have to manage physical servers, maintenance, and upgrades. In contrast, Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud-native solution, providing greater flexibility and scalability. With Business Central, you get:

• Automatic updates to ensure you’re always using the latest features.
• Anywhere, anytime access to your ERP data, improving collaboration across teams.
• Scalability, allowing your system to grow as your business expands without the need for additional infrastructure.

For mid-sized businesses looking to future-proof their ERP system, Business Central is designed for the modern digital workplace. Cloud-based ERPs help you avoid downtime, reduce maintenance costs, and improve operational efficiency.

2. Comprehensive ERP Functionality with Dynamics 365 Business Central

While GP has been a solid ERP for basic accounting and financials, Dynamics 365 Business Central goes beyond traditional ERP functionality. It offers:

• Comprehensive financial management, including accounts payable, accounts receivable, budgeting, and financial reporting.
• Advanced inventory and supply chain management for optimizing stock levels and managing suppliers.
• Customer relationship management (CRM) tools built directly into the system to help you streamline sales and customer service.
• Manufacturing and project management capabilities to handle more complex operations as your business grows.

Business Central also integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft tools like Power BI, Office 365, and Teams, providing users with a more connected and streamlined experience.

3. Enhanced Cash Flow Forecasting with Dryrun

One of the areas where Microsoft Dynamics GP falls short is cash flow forecasting. While GP can track financial transactions, it lacks the ability to provide flexible, scenario-based cash flow projections that today’s businesses need to make informed decisions.

By integrating Dryrun with Business Central, businesses can:

• Automate cash flow forecasting by pulling real-time data directly from Business Central.
• Model multiple scenarios to understand how changes in revenue, expenses, or sales cycles will impact future cash flow.
• Visualize and manage complex cash flow projections in a user-friendly, intuitive interface.
• Track recurring expenses, receivables, and shortfalls in real time, making it easier to anticipate and manage financial risks.

Dryrun is specifically designed for businesses with fluctuating or lumpy cash flow, providing the level of forecasting detail that GP cannot offer. It’s perfect for mid-sized businesses managing uncertainty in their financial operations.

4. Seamless Integration Between Business Central and Dryrun

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Dryrun work seamlessly together to provide an integrated solution that covers both day-to-day financial management and long-term cash flow forecasting. By connecting these two platforms, businesses can:

• Eliminate the need for manual data entry or exporting data from one system to another.
• Ensure that cash flow forecasts are always up-to-date with real-time financial data from Business Central.
• Make smarter, data-driven decisions using both historical financial data and forward-looking projections in one integrated platform.

This level of integration is something Microsoft Dynamics GP cannot achieve without complex and costly customizations. Business Central and Dryrun’s smooth interaction makes financial planning more dynamic and efficient.

5. Improved Collaboration and Decision-Making

Because Business Central is cloud-based, teams can collaborate on financial data from anywhere, allowing for faster and more informed decision-making. With Dryrun providing real-time cash flow forecasting, finance teams and decision-makers can:

• Access up-to-date financial reports and cash flow projections from any location.
• Collaborate on scenario planning and budgeting in real time, eliminating communication bottlenecks.
• Provide executives and stakeholders with clearer financial visibility, enhancing confidence in strategic decisions.

In contrast, Microsoft Dynamics GP can limit collaboration due to its on-premise nature and siloed approach to financial management.

6. Cost Efficiency and Long-Term Investment

Switching from Microsoft GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central and Dryrun can be seen as an investment in your company’s long-term success. Although the transition involves upfront costs for migration, training, and system setup, the long-term benefits far outweigh these initial expenses:

• Lower infrastructure costs with cloud hosting (no more servers or maintenance).
• Reduced operational risks with automated updates and cybersecurity features managed by Microsoft.
• Improved forecasting accuracy leading to better financial decisions and potential cost savings.
• Increased productivity with less time spent on manual data entry and more time focused on analysis and growth.

By investing in a modern, integrated ERP and cash flow forecasting solution, your business will be better equipped to navigate challenges and seize opportunities in an ever-changing market.

Conclusion

For businesses still using Microsoft Dynamics GP, the shift to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central with Dryrun represents a transformative upgrade. With a cloud-based ERP that integrates seamlessly with a powerful cash flow forecasting tool, mid-sized businesses can achieve greater financial accuracy, flexibility, and efficiency. The combination of Business Central and Dryrun offers the best of both worlds: a modern ERP system capable of handling the complexities of your operations and a cash flow forecasting tool designed to help you manage financial uncertainty and plan for the future.