Dynamics GP, Dynamics 365 BC and CRM Support in Chicago, IL

Dynamics GP Partner in Chicago, IL

Our Chicago presence has grown in the last few years. There are currently very few Microsoft Dynamics GP partners located in Chicago, Illinois, leaving many customers unsupported. We see similar issues with a lack of  Microsoft Dynamics GP partners throughout the Midwest. Our focus on Great Plains and several highly talented consultants in the Chicago area leveraged us to grow as a company and support many successful Midwest businesses.

Dexpro Dynamics is a recommended partner for Dynamics ERP implementation and support in Chicago. We often organize local training events and attend local user meetings. Dexpro is one of the key Microsoft partners and technology companies in Chicago that offers a range of services related to Microsoft products and technologies. Dexpro provides implementation, support, consulting, and customization services for various Microsoft solutions, including Microsoft Dynamics GP, Dynamics 365, and CRM. Dexpro is one of the very rare partners with a strong skillset in on-premise and in-cloud solutions. This allows us to give our clients objective advice on when and if to consider moving to the cloud.

Deciding when to move from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central depends on various factors related to your organization's needs, goals, and the capabilities of each system. Here are some considerations to help you determine the right timing for such a transition:

1. Functional Requirements: Assess whether Dynamics 365 Business Central meets your current and future functional requirements. Consider whether it offers the features and capabilities necessary to support your business processes.
2. Scalability: Evaluate whether Dynamics 365 Business Central can scale with your organization's growth. If you anticipate significant growth, Business Central's cloud-based nature can offer more scalability than an on-premises solution like Dynamics GP.
3. Cloud vs. On-Premises: Dynamics 365 Business Central is a cloud-based solution, while Dynamics GP offers both cloud and on-premises deployment options. If you're looking to migrate to the cloud for benefits like flexibility, accessibility, and reduced IT infrastructure costs, Business Central might be the way to go.
4. Integration and Ecosystem: Consider the other Microsoft technologies you use. Dynamics 365 Business Central is designed to integrate seamlessly with the Microsoft 365 suite, Power Platform, and other cloud services, offering a more cohesive ecosystem.
5. Customizations and Add-ons: Assess any customizations or third-party add-ons you've made to Dynamics GP. Determine whether those customizations can be replicated or replaced in Dynamics 365 Business Central.
6. Long-Term Strategy: Think about your organization's long-term technology strategy. If you're planning to align with Microsoft's cloud offerings, transitioning to Dynamics 365 Business Central could be part of that strategy.
7. Upgrade Cycles: Consider the upgrade cycles of both systems. If you're running an older version of Dynamics GP, you might need to upgrade to a more recent version before transitioning to Dynamics 365 Business Central.
8. Data Migration: Plan for data migration carefully. Moving historical data from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central requires careful consideration and planning.
9. User Training: Account for the time and effort needed to train your users on the new system. Smooth user adoption is crucial for a successful transition.
10. Support and Lifecycle: Understand the support and lifecycle timelines for both systems. Microsoft may phase out certain versions of Dynamics GP in the future, impacting support and updates.
11. Cost Analysis: Compare the total cost of ownership for both systems, including licensing, implementation, maintenance, and potential savings from moving to the cloud.
12. Consult with Experts: Engage with Microsoft partners, consultants, and experts who specialize in both Dynamics GP and Dynamics 365 Business Central. They can provide insights tailored to your organization's situation.

In many cases, the decision to transition from Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central involves a careful evaluation of your organization's current needs and future growth plans. It's recommended to conduct a thorough analysis, involve key stakeholders, and potentially seek professional guidance to make an informed decision. Dexpro is a Chicago-based Microsoft partner who can assist in system evaluation and provide objective advice on when Business Central should be considered. 

Chicago Suburbs Client Success Story - Microsoft Dynamics GP 

In the past, Dexpro was approached by a not-for-profit agency in Chicago, looking for support on their highly customized and technically complex system. After the initial introduction, Dexpro decided to send a local Microsoft Dynamics GP consultant to the agency's office and plan to conduct a thorough assessment of their system. This evaluation led to the conclusion that a complete system evaluation was the most appropriate next step.

To execute this extensive project, Dexpro opted for one of their most experienced technical GP consultants from the Chicago office, chosen due to their industry background aligning with the client's needs. This highly customized system was never properly documented and fully understood by the client until Dexpro got involved.

After several meetings, the agency chose to switch to Dexpro, making them their Microsoft VAR/Microsoft Partner. Dexpro efficiently reviewed the client's renewal and Dynamics GP keys, discovering an overcharge of $27,000 on the renewal invoice.

To gain a deeper understanding of the agency's requirements and identify suitable 3rd party software solutions for deployment, Dexpro scheduled a comprehensive Business Process and Technical Review. Despite the system's complexity, Dexpro managed to provide complete system flowcharts and system documentation as well as a road map to address immediate risks as well as to stabilize the system. This client was operating on an outdated and unsupported version of GP and none of the other Microsoft partners they interviewed were comfortable getting involved with this highly complex and customized system. The core of their business was handled in customized SharePoint and was only partially integrated into GP. There were a lot of support tickets and manual fixes in place.

Drawing insights from their consultants' observations, Dexpro made informed decisions to perform a GP upgrade, deploy third-party solutions to replace some of the unsupported customizations, as well as remove unused modules and software. Dexpro suggested applying all of Microsoft's best practices during the upgrade. The decision to partner with Dexpro yielded several significant benefits for the agency:

1. Annual Savings: The agency realized annual savings of $27,000. Dexpro always charges exactly what Microsoft requires for annual enhancement and can share Microsoft invoices information with the client.
2. System Documentation: Dexpro's Technical System Review furnished comprehensive system documentation, offering clarity on system design and anticipated changes. It educated client’s IT on current design and best practices to support it.
3. Upgrade and Training: Dexpro executed a Dynamics GP Upgrade, streamlined the system by removing unused 3rd party solutions, unused customizations, and provided dedicated user training.
4. Solution Deployment: Following the devised plan, several 3rd party solutions were successfully deployed.
5. Dedicated Support: Dexpro assigned dedicated GP consultants to offer ongoing tailored support to the agency.
6. Best Practices and System Stability: Dexpro's implementation of best practices and proactive consulting approach significantly curtailed the agency's requirement for GP support.
7. Efficiency: Upgrade Dynamics GP as well as deployment of modules that client already own cut down on manual process.
8. Reporting: Dexpro deployed SSRS and live Excel reports already designed for GP customers. Those reports allow users to access reporting information from outside of GP cutting down on number of GP license needed. 

Since the agency's engagement with Dexpro in 2016, their system cost decreased by 80%. Beyond the evident financial benefits, the agency now receives top-notch Dynamics GP support, optimally utilizing relevant 3rd party solutions tailored to their business model.

This scenario underscores Dexpro's proficiency in Microsoft Dynamics GP, which translated into substantial cost reductions, optimized system utilization, and elevated support for the agency since transitioning to Dexpro as their trusted partner.

Dynamics 365 BC Partner in Chicago, IL

Chicago Suburbs Client Success Story

Dexpro was approached by a Financial Firm looking to move from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Dynamics 365 Business Central in Chicago. Their IT was moving all applications to the cloud, and they did not want to maintain any on-premise servers. Also, they were already using all of the Microsoft products and wanted to use Microsoft ERP to utilize existing system collaboration. 

At the beginning of this engagement, Dexpro informed this client about Microsoft promotions available to existing Microsoft Dynamics customers and locked down their user license cost at 60% off for 3 years.

Initially, the client requested to copy the same functionality they currently have in GP as well as all the system processes and recreate them in Business Central. However, Dexpro instead recommended a review of their current process and system functionality.

Dexpro started the project by doing full system discovery and review of current business processes. Once the initial discovery was completed, Dexpro provided the client with Dynamics 365 BC demo tailored to specific client needs. During the demo, it was established that a new dimensional account structure in BC can replace some of the existing functionality and bring significant efficiencies to their current process. Other modules were presented and included in the new system design. The client agreed to clean up their master records and to bring only relevant data to the new system.

During the demo, Dexpro presented in detail how Dynamics 365 BC collaborates with other Microsoft products. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central and Microsoft Office are designed to seamlessly collaborate and work together, as both are part of the larger Microsoft ecosystem. This integration allows for improved productivity, streamlined communication, and efficient data sharing. Here's how Dynamics 365 Business Central collaborates with Microsoft Office:

1.    Outlook Integration:

Dynamics 365 Business Central offers an Outlook integration that enables you to view and interact with customer and vendor data directly within Outlook. You can access key business data, create quotes, orders, and invoices, and track customer interactions without leaving your email client.

2.    Excel Integration:

You can export data from Dynamics 365 Business Central into Excel for further analysis, reporting, and data manipulation. Changes made in Excel can be updated back into Business Central, ensuring data consistency.

3.    Word Templates:

Dynamics 365 Business Central allows you to create custom Word templates for documents such as invoices, quotes, and reports. These templates can be populated with data from the system, making it easy to generate consistent and professional-looking documents.

4.    OneNote Integration:

OneNote integration enables you to link notes and documents from Microsoft OneNote to records in Dynamics 365 Business Central. This is particularly useful for keeping track of additional information related to customers, vendors, or projects.

5.    SharePoint Integration:

Business Central can be integrated with Microsoft SharePoint, allowing you to store and manage documents, contracts, and other files in a centralized location. You can associate documents with specific records in Business Central for easy access.

6.    Power BI Integration:

Dynamics 365 Business Central integrates with Power BI, Microsoft's business analytics tool. You can create interactive reports and dashboards using Power BI that pull data directly from Business Central for real-time insights.

7.    Teams Integration:

Microsoft Teams integration allows you to collaborate and communicate with your team directly within Business Central. You can initiate Teams meetings, share documents, and collaborate on projects seamlessly.

8.    Office 365 Integration:

Dynamics 365 Business Central is part of the broader Office 365 ecosystem. This means that you can access Business Central and Office 365 apps using a single sign-on, promoting a unified experience.

The integration between Dynamics 365 Business Central and Microsoft Office enhances productivity by eliminating the need to switch between applications and allowing data to flow seamlessly across platforms. It's important to note that the level of integration and features available might vary based on the versions of the software and the specific configurations in use.

After the initial demo, Dexpro was able to address all additional questions and presented the client with a full system solution. Several 3^rd party solutions were selected to enhance Business Central functionality. The client reviewed financial software solutions like Jet Reports and Cosmos. Also, in order to provide the client with access to historical data, eOne’ Popdock was included in the new system design.

Dexpro approaches clients with integrity and always is transparent and upfront during the sales process about the cost and time investment with the client.

Once the client accepted the quote and go-live date was selected, Dexpro started the implementation of Dynamics 365 BC.

Dexpro implementation methodology for Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central follows a structured approach to ensure successful deployment and adoption of the software. Here are the steps involved in this implementation process:

1. Project Initiation:

• Define the project scope, objectives, and goals.
• Identify key stakeholders and their roles.
• Establish the project team, including consultants, developers, and end-users.

   2. Discovery and Planning:

• Conduct a detailed assessment of the organization's current processes, workflows, and IT infrastructure.
• Identify pain points, requirements, and desired outcomes.
• Understand all reporting needs.
• Create a project plan outlining timelines, milestones, and resource allocation.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to align expectations and priorities.

   3. Solution Design:

• Based on the discovery phase, design how Business Central will be configured to meet the organization's needs.
• Map out workflows, data migration strategies, integration points, and customizations if required.
• Develop a detailed functional and technical design document.

   4. Configuration and Development:

• Configure Business Central according to the design document.
• Develop any necessary customizations, integrations, and reports.
• Test the configured solution thoroughly to ensure it aligns with the requirements.

   5. Data Migration:

• Extract data from existing systems, cleanse and transform it as needed.
• Load the transformed data into Business Central.
• Perform data validation and reconciliation to ensure accuracy.

   6. User Training:

• Develop training materials and resources.
• Provide training to end-users on how to use Business Central effectively.
• Address user queries and concerns to ensure a smooth transition

   7. User Acceptance Testing (UAT):

• Invite end-users to test the system in a controlled environment.
• Address any issues or feedback that arise during testing.
• Obtain user approval for the system's functionality and performance.

   8. Deployment:

• Prepare the system for the production environment.
• Conduct a final review of all configurations, customizations, and integrations.
• Migrate the solution to the live environment.

   9. Go-Live and Post-Implementation:

• Launch the system for everyday use.
• Provide post-go-live support to address any immediate issues or concerns.
• Monitor system performance and user adoption.
• Address any post-implementation challenges and continue refining the solution based on user feedback.

   10. Ongoing Support and Optimization:

• Provide ongoing support to address user inquiries and technical issues.
• Continuously optimize the system based on evolving business needs.
• Regularly review system performance and explore opportunities for improvement.

It's important to note that selecting a qualified implementation partner like Dexpro Dynamics, considering change management strategies, and involving key stakeholders throughout the process are critical factors for a successful Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central implementation. Additionally, variations might occur based on the specific industry, organization size, and unique requirements of each implementation project.

After successful implementation delivered on time and under budget, Dexpro focused on training and system enhancements as well as on applying best practices.

Maintenance Best Practices for Dynamics 365 BC:

1. Regular Backups: Perform regular backups of your Dynamics 365 Business Central data to ensure data integrity and disaster recovery readiness.
2. Stay Up-to-Date: Stay informed about updates and new releases from Microsoft. Regularly apply updates and patches to keep your system secure and up-to-date.
3. Test Updates: Before applying updates or changes to the live environment, thoroughly test them in a separate environment to identify potential issues.
4. Monitor Performance: Continuously monitor system performance, responsiveness, and resource utilization. Address any performance bottlenecks promptly.
5. Document Changes: Keep detailed documentation of all configuration changes, customizations, and updates. This documentation aids troubleshooting and knowledge transfer.
6. User Training: Provide ongoing training to users as new features are introduced or processes change. Well-trained users contribute to efficient system usage.
7. Review Workflows: Periodically review and optimize business workflows. Eliminate redundant or outdated processes to maintain system efficiency.
8. Regular Housekeeping: Regularly clean up unused or outdated data, records, and configurations. This helps keep the system clutter-free and enhances performance.
9. Engage Support: If you encounter issues that you can't resolve internally, engage with Microsoft support or your implementation partner for assistance.
10. Scalability Planning: If your organization grows or changes, ensure that your configuration and infrastructure can scale accordingly.

By following these best practices suggested by Dexpro Dynamics for configuration and maintenance, you can ensure that your Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central implementation remains efficient, secure, and aligned with your evolving business needs.