We are writing this blog with a two-fold purpose: The first is to discuss the effects of mainstream support ending for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2016 in July this year. The second – to understand the options companies can select from to tide over the resultant challenges.
End of mainstream support – After effects
Mainstream support for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2016 and 2016 R2 will end on July 13, 2021. In a nutshell, this means that from then on, you will not receive Service Packs anymore.
To elaborate – This change will translate into you not receiving tax table and year-end updates, which typically include Payroll, AP 1099s and Fixed Asset depreciations.
What can you do to overcome these challenges?
One option to tide over this Microsoft Dynamics GP 2016 end-of-life phenomenon is to upgrade to a more recent version of Dynamics GP. If you decide to upgrade, you will receive additional features like Import Credit Card Transactions, User Security Workflow, Accounts Payable the Copy Paste feature, the 1099 NEC form and Extended Description on the Accounts Payable Entry Screen, to name a few.
Another option is to transition to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Learn more about the differences between GP and Business Central here.
Whichever option you choose, it is prudent to schedule a consultation with your service providing partner to discuss the most suitable one (for you) before making a decision. The purpose of participating in these consultations is to have a plan in place for:
- Upgrading to a newer version of Microsoft Dynamics from Dynamics GP 2016 or older versions. Relevant Microsoft services are available on supported versions of Microsoft Dynamics GP (according to the Microsoft Dynamics GP Modern Support Lifecycle policy)
Or - Making the move to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (available as an on-premises as well as a SaaS [Software as a Service] option)
To quote a Microsoft technical advisor, “I have heard that some people are worrying about Microsoft only supporting two versions of Microsoft Dynamics GP at a time. You do not need to worry about this. Due to the Rapid Release Cycle that we have gone to, we do still adhere to the Microsoft Dynamics GP Modern Support Lifecycle which, therefore, means that more versions of Microsoft Dynamics GP will be supported at one time.”
Extended support for Microsoft Dynamics GP is included in the customers standard support plans. Learn more about this extended Microsoft Dynamic GP support and the Microsoft Dynamics GP Product Lifecycle here.
Interesting data points
Reports suggest Microsoft Dynamics GP to be the preferred ERP solution for companies with 50 to 200 employees and $10 million to $50 million in revenue primarily because:
- It introduces enhanced control over finances, inventory and operations in small and medium-sized businesses that goes beyond accounting software
- It is flexible, configurable, and designed for scaling up
The termination of mainstream support for Microsoft Dynamics GP 2016 and 2016 R2 on July 13 this year could have, therefore, raised red flags for these businesses. However, the extended support period will last for five years past the end of mainstream support date (July 13, 2021). This is in addition to technology service providing partners – like Columbus – extending free consultations to customers to help them discuss, and identify, their correct course of action.
Write to us at us-marketing@columbusglobal.com to understand more on the topic.
