Why upgrade to Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations from Dynamics AX?
In an era where cloud adoption is becoming prevalent, businesses that fail to embrace this shift risk being left behind.
With many versions of Dynamics AX no longer receiving Mainstream and Extended Support, organizations using these versions are deprived of access to new features, fixes for security and non-security issues, and the ability to receive personalized support from Microsoft.
This makes upgrading to Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations a smart alternative. Following is a complete analysis of why companies should upgrade AX to Dynamics 365:
-
- Deployment model
Dynamics AX was predominantly an on-premises solution, though a cloud deployment option (AX on Azure) existed. On the other hand, D365 F&O is a cloud-based solution hosted on Microsoft Azure, offering the advantages of scalability, accessibility, and continuous updates.
The shift to the cloud empowers organizations to leverage the benefits of a modern, agile, cost-effective platform while eliminating the need to manage on-premises infrastructure.
-
- Platform
Dynamics AX was built on the MorphX development platform, utilizing the X++ programming language. In contrast, D365 F&O is built on the Common Data Service (CDS) platform, employing model-driven development.
This transition gives organizations greater flexibility, as they can now leverage the Power Platform tools, such as Power Apps and Power Automate, for customizations and workflow automation. The CDS platform also fosters seamless integration with other Microsoft products and services.
-
- User experience
Dynamics AX offered a traditional client-server architecture with a rich client interface. In contrast, D365 F&O provides a modern web-based interface, delivering a unified user experience across devices. Users can access the system through web browsers or dedicated mobile apps, enhancing their productivity and flexibility.
In addition, the intuitive and user-friendly interface of D365 F&O simplifies navigation, improves usability, and promotes user adoption.
-
- Updates and upgrades
Dynamics AX required manual upgrades, often resulting in additional time, resources, and potential disruptions for organizations. However, with D365 F&O being a cloud-based solution, Microsoft delivers continuous updates and enhancements seamlessly.
This eliminates manual upgrades, keeping the system up to date with the latest features, security patches, and regulatory compliance requirements. As a result, organizations can leverage the benefits of new functionalities, innovations, and industry best practices without incurring significant costs or interruptions.
-
- Integration and collaboration
Dynamics AX had limited integration capabilities with other Microsoft products, often necessitating custom development or third-party tools. In contrast, D365 F&O offers seamless integration with the broader Microsoft ecosystem, including Office 365, Power Platform, and Azure services.
This integration enables organizations to leverage additional functionalities, data analytics, and collaboration tools, enhancing productivity and decision-making. In addition, with unified data management and improved collaboration, teams can work more efficiently and share information seamlessly across departments.
-
- Analytics and AI
Dynamics AX provided basic reporting capabilities with limited AI functionality. In contrast, D365 F&O incorporates advanced analytics and reporting tools, including integration with Power BI for comprehensive data visualization.
The system also offers out-of-the-box AI features like predictive analytics, intelligent workflows, and fraud detection. These capabilities empower organizations to gain deeper insights into business performance, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.
In addition, integrating AI technologies enhances automation, optimization, and efficiency across various processes, enabling organizations to stay ahead in today's data-driven business landscape. As a result, a Microsoft Dynamics 365 upgrade can bring a lot of benefits to businesses and help them succeed.
Use cases of successful Dynamics 365 Upgrade for finance and operations
Some prominent examples of businesses that benefited from a successful Dynamics 365 upgrade for finance and operations include:
SJS International
SJS International overcame challenges with limited financial visibility and disintegrated processes by upgrading to Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations. The solution provided real-time inventory visibility, streamlined operations across sales channels, and automated tasks, increasing employee productivity.
With accurate financial management, centralized pricing, and AI-driven reporting,
SJS International could make informed business decisions, drive profitability, and optimize operations.
Leveraging Microsoft's technology stack, including Azure and Power BI, the digital transformation delivered an end-to-end solution, resulting in optimized operations and improved financial management.
Hush Puppies
Hush Puppies implemented Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations, aiming to efficiently sync inventory across their retail stores and e-commerce platform. The solution ensured 100% order fulfillment, provided financial visibility, and enhanced data security.
With Dynamics 365 F&O,
Hush Puppies achieved an efficient inventory management system and gained end-to-end store-wise financial visibility. This enabled them to optimize operations, improve customer satisfaction, and position themselves for success in the post-COVID retail landscape.
