Dynamics AX to Dynamics ‍365 Finance & Operations Upgrade Guide

Dynamics AX and Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations are powerful enterprise resource planning (ERP) solutions developed by Microsoft. Dynamics AX, also known as Dynamics AX 2012 R3, has been a widely adopted ERP platform, offering robust features and functionality to support various business operations. However, as technology evolves, businesses need to keep up with the latest advancements to stay ahead of the competition. This is where upgrading to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, also known as D365FO, becomes crucial. 

Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations is the next generation of ERP solutions offered by Microsoft. It provides enhanced capabilities, improved performance, and a seamless integration with other Microsoft technologies. By upgrading to D365FO, businesses can streamline their operations, improve efficiency, and gain a competitive edge in the market. 

Benefits of upgrading from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations 

Upgrading from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations brings several benefits to businesses. Firstly, D365FO offers a modern and intuitive user interface, making it easier for employees to navigate and perform their tasks efficiently. This improves productivity and reduces the learning curve for new users. 

Secondly, D365FO provides advanced analytics and reporting capabilities, allowing businesses to gain valuable insights into their operations. With real-time data and customisable dashboards, decision-makers can make informed decisions and drive business growth. 

Furthermore, D365FO offers seamless integration with other Microsoft technologies such as Office 365, Power Platform, and Azure. This enables businesses to leverage the full potential of the Microsoft ecosystem and create a connected and intelligent digital workplace. 

Overview of the upgrade process 

Before diving into the upgrade process, it is essential to understand the overall steps involved. The upgrade process from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations can be categorised into four main stages: assessment, planning, execution, and post-upgrade considerations. 

Assessment: In this stage, businesses need to assess their current Dynamics AX system and infrastructure to identify any potential issues or compatibility issues. Additionally, data migration requirements should be evaluated to ensure a smooth transition of data to D365FO. 

Planning: Defining the objectives, timeline, and resource allocation for the upgrade is crucial for its success. Businesses should develop a comprehensive plan that includes user training, system customisation, and integration with other applications. 

Execution: This stage involves the actual migration of data and customisation from Dynamics AX to D365FO. It is important to follow a step-by-step guide provided by Microsoft or work with a Microsoft Partner to ensure a seamless transition. 

Post-upgrade considerations: Once the upgrade is complete, businesses should focus on user training, providing support to users, and optimising the system for maximum efficiency. Ongoing monitoring and maintenance are also critical to address any issues that may arise. 

Preparing for the upgrade – assessing your current system, data migration, and infrastructure requirements 

Before embarking on the upgrade journey, businesses need to assess their current Dynamics AX system and infrastructure. This evaluation helps identify any potential challenges or compatibility issues that may arise during the upgrade process. 

To begin, businesses should conduct a comprehensive review of their current Dynamics AX system. This includes analysing the modules and functionalities currently in use, customisations made, and any third-party integrations. By understanding the existing system, businesses can better plan for the migration to D365FO and ensure a smooth transition. 

Data migration is another critical aspect to consider when preparing for the upgrade. Businesses need to determine what data needs to be migrated to D365FO and develop a strategy for data cleansing, transformation, and migration. It is important to ensure data integrity and accuracy during the migration process to avoid any disruptions to business operations. 

In addition to the system and data assessment, evaluating the infrastructure requirements is essential. D365FO operates on a cloud-based infrastructure, so businesses need to ensure they have the necessary network bandwidth, hardware, and security measures in place to support the new ERP system. Collaborating with an experienced Microsoft Partner can provide valuable guidance and expertise in assessing and addressing infrastructure requirements. 

Planning the upgrade – defining objectives, timeline, and resources 

To ensure a successful upgrade from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, businesses need to develop a comprehensive plan that outlines the objectives, timeline, and resource allocation for the upgrade project. 

Defining clear objectives is crucial as it helps align the upgrade with the overall business goals. Whether the objective is to improve operational efficiency, enhance reporting capabilities, or enable scalability, having a clear vision will guide the upgrade process and ensure that the desired outcomes are achieved. 

Establishing a realistic timeline is also essential for a smooth transition. Businesses need to consider factors such as data migration, system customisation, user training, and testing when setting the timeline. It is important to allow sufficient time for each phase of the upgrade to minimise disruptions to day-to-day operations. 

Allocating the right resources is critical to the success of the upgrade project. Businesses should identify the key stakeholders, including IT personnel, functional experts, and end-users, who will be involved in the upgrade process. Adequate training and support should be provided to ensure that all stakeholders are prepared for the transition to D365FO. 

Executing the upgrade – step-by-step guide to upgrading from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations 

Once the assessment and planning stages are complete, it is time to execute the upgrade from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. While the exact steps may vary depending on the specific business requirements, the following provides a general step-by-step guide to the upgrade process: 

• Backup and preparation: Before starting the upgrade, it is crucial to backup the Dynamics AX database and perform a thorough system check to ensure that all prerequisites are met. 

• Data migration: Migrating data from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations is a critical step. Businesses should follow the recommended data migration approach provided by Microsoft or work with a Microsoft Partner to ensure a smooth and accurate transfer of data. 

• Customisation and configuration: Once the data is migrated, businesses can start customising and configuring D365FO to meet their specific requirements. This includes setting up modules, workflows, and security roles. 

• User training: Providing comprehensive training to end-users is essential for a successful transition. Businesses should conduct training sessions to familiarise users with the new system and its features. Training can be conducted in-person, online, or through self-paced learning modules. 

• Testing and validation: Thoroughly testing the upgraded system is crucial to identify any issues or inconsistencies. Businesses should perform unit tests, integration tests, and user acceptance tests to ensure that all functionalities are working as expected. 

• Go-live and support: Once all tests are successfully completed, businesses can proceed with the go-live of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. It is important to provide ongoing support and address any issues or questions that may arise during the initial phase of using the new system. 

Testing and validation – ensuring a smooth transition and identifying any issues 

Testing and validation are critical steps in the upgrade process from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. Thorough testing ensures a smooth transition and helps identify any issues or inconsistencies that may arise. 

Businesses should conduct different types of tests to validate the upgraded system. Unit tests focus on testing individual components or functionalities to ensure they are working correctly. Integration tests verify the interaction between different modules and third-party integrations. User acceptance tests involve end-users testing the system and providing feedback on its usability and functionality. 

It is important to involve key stakeholders, including functional experts and end-users, in the testing and validation process. Their input and feedback can help identify any issues or areas that need further improvement. Businesses should document and address any issues promptly to minimise disruptions to business operations. 

Once the testing and validation process is complete, businesses can proceed with the go-live of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, confident in the system’s stability and functionality. 

Post-upgrade considerations – training, support, and optimisation 

After successfully upgrading from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, businesses need to focus on post-upgrade considerations to ensure a seamless transition and maximise the benefits of the new ERP system. 

Training plays a crucial role in helping end-users adapt to the new system. Businesses should provide comprehensive training sessions to familiarise users with the new features and functionalities of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. Ongoing support and guidance should also be provided to address any questions or issues that may arise during the initial phase of using the new system. 

Optimising the system for maximum efficiency is another important consideration. Businesses should regularly monitor and fine-tune the system to ensure that it continues to meet their evolving needs. This may involve customising workflows, adding new modules or functionalities, or integrating with other applications to enhance productivity and streamline operations. 

Collaborating with a Microsoft Partner can greatly facilitate post-upgrade considerations. Microsoft Partners have the expertise and experience to provide ongoing support, training, and optimisation services. They can help businesses leverage the full potential of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations and ensure a seamless transition. 

Working with a Microsoft Partner for the upgrade 

Working with a Microsoft Partner for the upgrade from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations offers numerous benefits for businesses. Microsoft Partners have extensive knowledge and experience in implementing and supporting Microsoft technologies, including Dynamics 365. 

A Microsoft Partner can provide expert guidance and support throughout the upgrade process. They can help businesses assess their current system, plan the upgrade, execute the migration, and provide post-upgrade support and optimisation services. Their expertise ensures a seamless transition and minimises any potential disruptions to business operations. 

Carbon and Finch is an established Microsoft Partner with a proven track record of delivering high-quality Microsoft solutions for enterprises. Their implementation and support capabilities for Microsoft Dynamics solutions, including Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, are first-class. By partnering with Carbon and Finch, businesses can leverage their expertise and ensure a successful upgrade to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations. 

Conclusion: Embracing the power of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations 

Upgrading from Dynamics AX to Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations is a strategic move for businesses looking to streamline their operations and stay ahead of the competition. D365FO offers enhanced capabilities, improved performance, and seamless integration with other Microsoft technologies. 

By following a comprehensive upgrade process, including assessing the current system, planning the upgrade, executing the migration, and addressing post-upgrade considerations, businesses can ensure a successful transition to D365FO. Partnering with a Microsoft Partner, such as Carbon and Finch, further enhances the upgrade journey by providing expert guidance, support, and optimisation services. 

Embrace the power of Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations and unlock the full potential of your business. Upgrade today and experience the benefits of a modern, intelligent, and connected ERP solution. 

WHERE MICROSOFT TECHNOLOGIES MEET EXPERTISE, delivering high-quality Microsoft solutions for enterprises around the world. Carbon and Finch are an established Microsoft Partner with first-class implementation and support capabilities for your Microsoft Dynamics solutions.