When you installed your traditional ERP software, well before the emergence of Microsoft Dynamics 365, it made a demonstrable difference to your business – simplifying processes, saving money and giving operations a shot in the arm. However, as with anything new, its adoption can create challenges if not properly managed. Success lies in the strategy, and in identifying possible stumbling blocks early on.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is no different. It enables digital transformation and combines CRM and ERP, creating a comprehensive, flexible, and highly available productivity platform for everyone in your organisation. Allowing your employees to manage data better, using actionable intelligence designed to make your company more profitable and futureproof.

As you may already be aware, mainstream support for Microsoft Dynamics AX 2009 SP1 has been extended to 12.10.2021.  (Dynamics 2012 R2 – 12.10.2021 & R3 – 10.1.2023). You’ll no longer be able to receive updates, security fixes or warranties from Microsoft for these products, after these dates, which will limit their effectiveness.

So, what are your options?

Well, you could extend your support agreement by paying for a customised contract… however, you won’t benefit from all possible product and security updates other than those you specifically ask for. You could choose an existing extended support option… but once your product stops receiving mainstream support, these options will offer limited benefits at best and eventually expire. You could do nothing and just hope for the best… although that’s probably not ideal for the wellbeing of your business.

Alternatively, you could select to upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics 365… which, with proper planning, will be the best option for taking your business forward.

Focus on areas most in need

Start by identifying your business priorities. Do you want to grow, and does that growth depend on improving a particular area of operations? Is one function lagging behind others or in need of more resource? Because Microsoft Dynamics 365 is packaged into different, role-relevant apps, you can deploy it to tackle specific needs – the critical areas of your business that most need support – rather than having to buy the entire solution in one hit. This is better for operations, not to mention your budget. It also means you can deploy new technologies at your own speed.

Assign the right resource

Next, allocate appropriate project management to make sure that your Dynamics AX upgrade goes smoothly. The process might be straightforward, but by bringing Microsoft Dynamics experts onboard, you’ll know you’re getting the most from your new solution, every step of the way.

This can take some organisation. Simply handing the upgrade project to your in-house IT staff might create friction, as they battle to juggle it alongside the rest of their day jobs. The result is often a rushed implementation and a strained relationship. Not the best way to gain value from your new investment.  HSO are the Dynamics 365 and AX project recovery experts when things go wrong but you are recommended not to let it get to this stage.

Work with an expert

Depending on your internal resource, it might be better to bring in a third party technology expert like HSO; someone who is well-versed in Microsoft Dynamics and focused on delivering the very best results at every point of your transition, as well as supporting you afterwards. In the longer term, it can be money very well spent.  Our customers will agree.

HSO has spent more than 25 years’ implementing successful Microsoft Dynamics solutions – and have been a member of the Inner Circle for Microsoft Dynamics partners for over 11 consecutive years. All this means we’re ideally positioned to help you get where you need to be, affordably and hassle-free.