Dynamics AX 2012 support ends: Exploring the next steps

What are the next steps? 

Running your business operations on an unsupported system can lead to costly consequences. Therefore, it is important to consider planning an upgrade to Microsoft Dynamics 365, as any reputable Dynamics AX partner would recommend. However, migration is not a straightforward process and requires careful planning. As you weigh your options, here are some essential considerations to guide your decision:

Option 1: Stay on Microsoft Dynamics AX 

Regardless of why you are not ready to migrate, staying with your current Dynamics AX environment is possible. However, it's important to get support to ensure the seamless functioning of your business users and processes. There are two ways about it: Rely on your internal IT team You can employ your internal IT team to manage and maintain the AX system. This approach can work well if the IT personnel in your organization have in-depth knowledge and expertise in Dynamics AX. They will be responsible for handling any technical issues, system updates and ensuring the smooth operation of your ERP processes. While relying on internal IT can be cost-effective, it's recommended to evaluate whether your team has the necessary skills and bandwidth to manage the system. Seek support from a trusted Dynamics AX partner  Alternatively, partnering with a reliable Dynamics AX expert can provide your organization with the necessary support to optimize your current Dynamics AX setup. A seasoned Dynamics partner can offer specialized insights, best practices, and customized solutions to enhance the system's efficiency, security, and stability. Service providers specializing in Dynamics AX support services also offer performance tuning services that can address potential performance bottlenecks, ensuring your Dynamics AX environment operates at its best. With the right Dynamics partner, you can gain peace of mind, knowing that your ERP system is in capable hands.

Option 2: Upgrade to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations 

Upgrading to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, the successor to Dynamics AX 2012, presents a compelling choice for businesses looking to stay ahead in the rapidly evolving technology landscape. This modern ERP solution offers several advantages that make it a viable and future-proof option for companies after the end of Dynamics AX support. This migration presents a host of advantages, such as:

• • Access to new features: Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations comes with a range of new features and capabilities including enhanced UI and end-user experience, mobile-ready and cross-platform access, and a built-in disaster recovery mechanism. All these and other advanced features can greatly enhance efficiency and productivity.

• • Continuous support: Microsoft offers ongoing mainstream support for Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, ensuring access to the latest updates and security patches.

• • Seamless integrations: Being a part of the Microsoft ecosystem, Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations seamlessly integrates with other Microsoft products and third-party applications, allowing for a unified and connected environment.

• • Future-proofing: An upgrade to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations aligns businesses with Microsoft's long-term roadmap and digital transformation initiatives.

Is staying on Dynamics AX 2012 the right choice? 

The decision to stay on Dynamics AX 2012 or migrate to a newer ERP solution like Microsoft Dynamics 365 depends on several factors, including your organization's unique needs, business goals, budget, and risk tolerance. Many organizations are still using Dynamics AX to this date. Some common situations where delaying the upgrade seems the right choice include:

• • The current Dynamics AX satisfies your business’s requirements, and you have internal support available.

• • Your business has just deployed AX, and you are not yet financially or logistically prepared for another upgrade.

Keep in mind that continuing to use Dynamics AX without mainstream support can expose your business to potential security vulnerabilities, functional limitations, and compatibility issues with modern applications. Moreover, Dynamics AX performance issues may impede business operations and affect overall productivity.