In our earlier blog, Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations vs. Business Central, we discussed the similarities and differences between these two platforms. In this blog, we delve deeper into both systems by addressing some statements that we often hear. What are the myths, and what are the facts?
Myth or Fact #1: Only F&O can be used for international organizations
Let’s start with Finance & Operations. This system allows you to choose from a list of entities, work with a Shared Service Center, and benefit from comprehensive overarching analytics. Business Central, on the other hand, offers a different look and feel and operates using separate production environments and localizations per country.
A Shared Service Center is not available in Business Central; you always work per organization or database. In Finance & Operations, all localizations are included in one license, whereas Business Central requires an additional license per production environment for each localization or country.
Myth or Fact #2: Business Central cannot meet our intercompany needs
Intercompany functionality can be examined from three perspectives: financial, resource sharing, and supply chain.
- Financial: Both systems offer similar capabilities, such as sharing master data to enable seamless intercompany processes.
- Resource sharing: This is not available by default in Business Central. However, Cegeka provides a vertical solution that enables resource sharing across projects. In Finance & Operations, resource sharing is standard, allowing employees and resources to be easily defined and distributed across countries and entities.
- Connected supply chain: In this case, there is a clear distinction. Business Central has limited functionality due to its technical setup with multiple production databases. Finance & Operations includes a connected supply chain as part of its core solution, offering extensive features for planning, logistics, and more.
Both systems can meet intercompany needs, but for a connected international supply chain, Finance & Operations is the better choice.
Myth or Fact #3: Only F&O can meet our industry-specific needs
Both Business Central and Finance & Operations (F&O) provide robust features tailored to a wide variety of industries. While F&O offers extensive out-of-the-box functionality, Business Central complements this with a versatile horizontal layer and highly customizable applications. Additionally, for both platforms, extra functionalities for specific industries are available through apps.
Myth or Fact #4: Microsoft integrates new technology only into F&O
AI, Copilot, and other new technologies are equally integrated into both solutions. However, specific roadmap functionalities are partially determined by customers and partners, which may lead to differences between Business Central and Finance & Operations.
Myth or Fact #5: Non-functional factors are less important
When selecting an ERP system, functional aspects are often the main focus. While crucial, non-functional factors also play a significant role. These include timing, budget, change management, the availability of key users, and the organization’s growth strategy.
Myth or Fact #6: A technical upgrade is always the best choice
When organizations consider adopting a new solution, their first instinct is often to upgrade to the cloud version of their existing system. However, as businesses evolve due to growth and changing needs, it’s essential to evaluate whether this remains the best choice for your organization.
Want to know which Microsoft ERP system fits your organization best? Our ERP simulator can help you find the perfect match. Or, feel free to contact us directly for more information.