Upgrading from older versions of Microsoft Dynamics NAV to the latest Dynamics 365 Business Central can be daunting, especially if you need to jump several versions all at once, migrate large volumes of data, or accommodate custom objects.
Fortunately, Rapidi's data integration solution makes this transition seamless and efficient in one step. Read on if you want to learn about why Rapidi is an excellent tool to use and how your strategy around the upgrade should be done
Moving Data from Old NAV Versions to the Latest Business Central in One Step
What are the Key Differences between Dynamics NAV and Dynamics 365 BC?
The key differences lie in accessibility and licensing. Dynamics 365 BC operates in a browser, offering more flexibility and reach, without losing any functionalities of Dynamics NAV, like Sales and Service, and Operation Management. In terms of licensing, NAV uses concurrent user licensing, whereas Business Central adopts a Named User model. Both systems support on-premises and Cloud deployments.
On-Premises vs. Cloud Deployment in Dynamics 365 BC
The Cloud version is suitable for small businesses with simpler operations, offering cost efficiency and mobile data access. In contrast, the on-premises version is designed for more complex business processes, although it comes with a higher operating cost. High-availability network hardware is required for similar data availability in the on-premises setup.
The Challenge of Migrating Data from Older Dynamics NAV Versions
Many organizations still rely on older versions of NAV to manage their business operations. However, as Microsoft is slowly phases out support for many legacy systems, upgrading to Business Central has become the recommended choice from Microsoft and its partners to ensure continued functionality, security, and access to modern features.
Some key challenges include:
- Multiple Version Jumps: Moving directly from an older NAV version (e.g., NAV 2009) to Business Central often requires upgrading through multiple intermediate versions, leading to time-consuming and costly migrations.
- Large Data Volumes: Businesses with extensive historical data face performance and storage challenges during migration.
- Custom Objects and Fields: Customizations tailored to specific business processes may not be compatible with newer systems, requiring careful mapping and data transformation.
Rapidi offers professional services in assisting clients with earlier Microsoft Dynamics NAV versions to transition and upgrade to Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC). Especially, for users of earlier Dynamics NAV versions, the transition isn't as direct as being advertised. Rapidi can help make this transition as smooth as possible, without you losing any data along the way.
Why Rapidi is A Excellent Solution
Rapidi's data integration solution is designed to address these challenges, offering a flexible and powerful approach to data migration. Here's why it's the right tool for the job:
- Direct Data Migration: Rapidi Transitioning data from Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central. Migrating data from Dynamics NAV to BC is manageable using the Rapidi Data Integration Platform or through direct entry. Rapidi bypasses multiple version upgrades and transfers data directly from older Dynamics NAV versions to Business Central, saving time and effort.
- Seamless Data Mapping: Rapidi maps custom objects and fields to the new system with advanced data transformation capabilities, ensuring compatibility without losing data integrity.
- Handling Large Volumes with Ease: Rapidi’s robust architecture is built to process large datasets efficiently, minimizing downtime and disruptions.
- Minimal Downtime: The migration process can be performed incrementally, enabling the parallel operation of old and new systems to reduce operational risks.
- Customizable Integration: Rapidi is highly configurable to meet your specific business needs, whether you're dealing with industry-specific workflows or custom extensions.
- Upgrading older Dynamics NAV versions to the latest Dynamics 365 Business Central in one go: Integration from your current NAV setup can be customized to a significant extent. Integrations and customizations from newer versions of NAV (2017/2018) can be migrated relatively easily, but the process becomes more difficult with older versions. Older customizations may need to be reconfigured as extensions or may become obsolete due to the enhanced functionality of Dynamics 365 BC. Rapidi can assist you in setting up the new mapping to your new Microsoft Dynamics Business Central instance, whether it is the cloud-based or on-premise version.
Transitioning Data from Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 BC
Migrating data from Dynamics NAV to BC is manageable using the Rapidi Data Integration Platform or through direct entry.
Upgrading Previous Dynamics NAV Integrations to Dynamics 365 BC
Integration from your current NAV setup can be customized to a significant extent. Integrations and customizations from newer versions of NAV (2017/2018) can be migrated relatively easily, but the process becomes more difficult with older versions. Older customizations may need to be reconfigured as extensions or may become obsolete due to the enhanced functionality of Dynamics 365 BC. Rapidi can assist you in setting up the new mapping to your new Microsoft Dynamics Business Central instance, whether it is the cloud-based or on-premise version.
Planning your upgrade path to Dynamics Business Central
1. Assessment of current situation and future business needs
First, early planning consists of running a full assessment of your current and future business needs so you have a clear picture of how things will look in the new system. Yes, this part is a bit daunting but the outcome will be beneficial to everybody.
When it comes to upgrading from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP, early planning is key. It’s important to run a full assessment of your current and future business needs so that you have a clear picture of how things will look in the new system. This step is critical to ensure that you have all the data needed for a successful transition.
2. Plan for a smooth transition to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
Second, whether you are opting for the Business Central Online or Business Central on-premise deployment, you will need to move from assessment to the actual migration process: plan the steps that are required, make sure that all users experience a smooth transition and that you have a project timeline in place. It’s important to have resources available for your migration or upgrade to D365 Business Central and train end users so that they are comfortable with the new system.
3. Rapidi will be your supporting partner in the migration/upgrade process
Data migration from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP can be a complex process and yes, a migration takes time and effort but our team of consultants is here to help you and guide you through the migration process. We have extensive experience in data migrations or upgrades within the Microsoft ecosystem and we can provide you with our recommendations and best practices to ensure a smooth transition and make sure that there are no bumps in the road.
Through our expertise, we can provide:
- Consultancy regarding how to approach your NAV to Business Central upgrade
- Recommendations and best practices to ensure a smooth transition to the new system
- Implementation services in setting up your new data integration to Business Central
- Ongoing support to ensure a successful transition to Business Central on time
Contact us today to learn more about how Rapidi can support you in your upgrade project.
Conclusion
Migrating from older versions of Dynamics NAV to the latest Business Central doesn’t have to be a complex, multi-step process. With Rapidi’s data integration solution, you can streamline the migration, save time, and maintain data accuracy—even when you need to jump several versions, handling extensive data volumes and custom objects. Ready to future-proof your business operations? Contact Rapidi today to learn more about how we can help you transition to Business Central quickly and efficiently.
