Cloud or on-premise
As we move into an expansive online world, and with the changes brought about by Covid-19, the movement towards cloud technologies feels like a natural next step. Moving from on-premise environments to the cloud can feel like a big jump. With Business Central the goal is to have the system set up and running as quickly as possible, without any hiccups.
It is worth noting that for those who don’t wish to move to the cloud, Business Central is still available on-premise. Both options offer the same browser-based experience. Depending on the nature of your business or the number of customisations you have, this may still be the better option. We have considerable experience of both cloud and on-premise environments and would love to discuss the pros and cons of each.
Can we have it by the end of the week?
A cloud environment can be set up within minutes, and an on-premise one doesn’t take too long, but that’s the easy bit! You need to consider whether to upgrade, keeping all your existing data or re-implement, effectively starting with a clean sheet. If you do choose to re-implement, the new Configuration Packages make transferring essential data simple.
If you are already on a version of Business Central then an upgrade should be straightforward. One of the drivers behind Business Central is encouraging frequent updates to the latest version. Using the online version, upgrades happen automatically, with major upgrades twice a year.
For older versions there is more to think about. You will need to consider what elements of your existing system to keep and what data to transfer. For example:
- Do you have modifications that are specific to your industry?
- Are there new standard features that will replace your modifications?
- Do you want to take your old data to the new system or start with a clean slate?
- Are you seeking an opportunity to change your business processes?
What about the licence?
For those with a traditional on-premise licence and your BREP is up to date, there are a number of options available. If you will be staying on-premise then you can currently have 3 named users for every concurrent user. Depending on your current licence, you will move to either an Essentials licence or a Premium one which includes manufacturing and Service. There will be no fee to upgrade and your annual BREP will remain unchanged. If you move to the cloud then you will stop paying BREP and move to user-based monthly billing. The good news is that Microsoft are offering significant discounts to the monthly pricing in recognition of your loyalty. To discuss licensing in more detail please don’t hesitate to contact us.
What next?
When it comes to moving from Navision or NAV to Business Central, experience is key. Probitas have experience reaching back to the first Windows-based version of Navision. What this means is that our expertise in performing upgrades is certainly uncommon. Our clients draw comfort from the fact that we understand the benefits and pitfalls of each approach. We will talk to you about the future requirements of your business and understand how you got to where you are. We will analyse your existing system, its customisations and existing issues. Considering all aspects of the decision and giving honest advice on the best route forward is crucial. Please feel free to get in touch with us. We don’t have any salesmen. You will talk to an experienced individual with good technical knowledge, a real-world approach and just the right amount of cynicism!
To see a breakdown of some of the key features within Business Central, feel free to take a look at the attached Microsoft resource.