Dynamics GP to Business Central Migration 101: What to Expect and How to Start for Field Service

Field service never stands still. Neither do your customers, your technicians, or your timelines. But if your ERP system is still rooted in older tools, something’s out of sync—and that's where the Dynamics GP to Business Central migration journey begins.

For many companies running GP, the path forward isn’t a simple swap. It’s a chance to evolve into a future-ready system built around how your team actually works. That’s where Business Central comes in—not as a one-size-fits-all replacement, but as the financial and operational foundation of a broader solution.

At WennSoft, we’ve spent decades helping field service and construction organizations modernize operations. I’ve seen firsthand how the shift from paper logs to cloud-based platforms, from workarounds to well-integrated apps, can transform teams.

This blog kicks off a new series about what it really takes to transition from GP: the technologies, the steps, and the planning needed to evolve at your pace. Because when you've built something strong, the next step isn’t to abandon it, but to build on it.

Why It’s Time to Rethink Your ERP

Dynamics GP has been a reliable backbone for field service companies. But just like equipment in the field, even the best tools eventually need upgrading when demands outpace design.

Field service has changed. Distributed teams, real-time data needs, and new service models are the norm. Legacy systems often struggle to keep up. Microsoft’s innovation is now focused on the cloud, with Dynamics 365 Business Central receiving the latest features, AI tools, and integrations.

Moving forward doesn’t mean replacing everything overnight. It means choosing a system that grows with you—starting with a flexible foundation and extending into purpose-built tools for field service and mobility.

Planning for What’s Next

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central provides a strong financial and operational core. But building a future-ready ERP requires a connected system: Business Central at the center, supported by WennSoft Service (built on Microsoft Field Service), MobileTech, and other best-fit technologies.

Modern field service ERP is about supporting current operations while preparing for future needs.

What Business Central Brings to a Modern Field Service Stack

Business Central has become the go-to ERP foundation for companies modernizing operations. It offers:

• Anywhere, anytime access: Real-time data for techs, dispatchers, and finance teams—no VPNs or remote desktop needed. With Business Central, everything is browser based and accessible from virtually any device.

• Microsoft 365 integration: Scheduling, collaboration, and reporting through Outlook, Excel, Teams, and Power BI.

• Scalability: Adapt easily to new regions or services without major overhauls.

• Security and compliance: Microsoft manages infrastructure, uptime, and updates.

According to Forrester’s Total Economic Impact™ study, companies migrating to Business Central reported reduced IT costs, faster financial workflows, and better decision-making.

ERP migration is just part of the puzzle. Business Central provides the structure, but the complete solution connects field teams, supports advanced job costing, and enables mobile dispatch.

Planning Your Dynamics GP to Business Central Migration

Moving from GP isn’t about flipping a switch. It’s about aligning technology with how your teams work today—and where you’re headed.

Start with:

• Assessing your current system: Identify what's working, what’s critical, and where gaps exist.

• Mapping future needs: Pinpoint areas where real-time data, mobile access, or scheduling improvements would have the biggest impact.

• Prioritizing components: Some start with financials in Business Central; others prioritize field service tools.

Many organizations take a phased approach—starting with a strong ERP foundation, then extending with WennSoft Service, MobileTech, and more as needs evolve.

Working with an experienced partner is key. They can help navigate data migration, rethink workflows, and keep financials, project costing, and field service operations connected throughout.

Training and adoption are critical. Even the best tools won’t deliver if users aren’t equipped. Hands-on testing, sandbox environments, and role-based training help ensure success. Microsoft also offers step-by-step migration guidance.

Phased Migration Strategy Checklist

• Assess your GP environment: What’s working, what’s missing, where modernization can drive value.

• Prioritize needs: Finance, field service, mobility—address the most critical areas first.

• Build a strong ERP foundation: Move financials and core operations to Business Central.

• Extend capabilities: Add WennSoft Service, MobileTech, and Microsoft Field Service as needed.

• Plan for ongoing growth: Expand capabilities as operations evolve.

What a Future-Ready Field Service ERP Stack Looks Like

A modular, connected system gives field service companies flexibility and resilience. Here’s what a modern stack could look like:

• Business Central: Financials, job costing, purchasing, project management, integrated with Microsoft 365.

• WennSoft Service (built on Microsoft Field Service): Scheduling, dispatch, service contracts, work orders, and customer communications—plus advanced scheduling, resource optimization, and AI-powered service insights.

• MobileTech: Mobile access for field techs to manage work orders, tasking, inventory, and more—plus offline capabilities when cell or Wi-Fi service isn’t available.

Because it’s built on Microsoft’s cloud, the stack stays connected, secure, and continually improving.

ERP Data Migration Best Practices

Modernizing ERP is about thoughtful planning and strong adoption. Best practices include:

• Choosing the right partner: Expertise in GP, Business Central, and field service is crucial.

• Involving stakeholders early: Field techs, dispatchers, and finance users should shape workflows.

• Simplifying: Use migration to streamline processes, not replicate outdated customizations.

• Prioritizing training: Confident users drive faster adoption.

• Planning beyond go-live: Resources should be in place to optimize workflows and add features.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Skipping data cleanup.

• Leaving frontline users out of planning.

• Over-customizing Business Central.

• Underinvesting in training and change management.

• Choosing a partner unfamiliar with field service.

• Treating go-live as the finish line instead of the starting point.

Final Takeaway: Future-Ready Field Service Starts Now

Modernizing from Dynamics GP isn’t just replacing a system—it’s about enabling your teams, improving operations, and fueling growth.

By building around Business Central—and extending with WennSoft Service, MobileTech, and Microsoft’s broader field service tools—you can create a flexible, connected ERP stack built for today and ready for tomorrow.

With the right strategy and the right partner, your ERP evolution doesn’t have to be disruptive. It can strengthen your operations and future-proof your business.

Ready to explore your migration options? Learn more at www.wennsoft.com/contact-us.

For even more GP to BC migration tips, join our upcoming webinar:

 About the Author

Richard Haus is a technology leader with over 30 years in construction software innovation. As CEO of WennSoft, he helps contractors modernize operations with purpose-built Microsoft technologies that improve efficiency and drive long-term success. He has led the development of industry-transforming solutions like Signature Time, Signature Telematics, and our new Cloud Field Service, all designed to optimize workflows and enhance productivity for the skilled trades.

Passionate about problem-solving and continuous improvement, Richard believes success – whether in business or the outdoors – comes from preparation, the right tools, and a willingness to adapt.

Connect with Richard on LinkedIn to continue the conversation.