In this article, we’ll explain the key differences between Dynamics NAV and Business Central and, if you are still on a version of NAV, why it might be a good time to upgrade from Dynamics NAV to Business Central.
What is Dynamics Nav?
Microsoft Dynamics NAV is an end‑to‑end Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system designed for small and mid-sized businesses to manage their core operations in one platform.
It enables organisations to streamline processes across areas such as:
- Financial management
- Sales and customer management
- Supply chain and inventory
- Warehouse operations
- Projects and service management
Dynamics NAV is known for being flexible and adaptable, allowing businesses to improve efficiency, automate workflows, and gain better control over operations across the entire organisation. In simple terms, Dynamics NAV brings all business processes together into one system to improve productivity, visibility, and control.
What is Business Central?
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is an all-in-one, cloud-based ERP solution for small and medium-sized businesses. It brings together finance, operations, sales, and customer service in one platform.
It’s scalable, cost-effective, and integrates seamlessly with Microsoft tools like Office 365, Power BI, and Power Automate to streamline processes and boost productivity.
Differences Between Dynamics NAV and Business Central
| Feature | NAV | Business Central |
|---|---|---|
| Platform | On-premise | Cloud-based |
| Updates | Manual | Automatic |
| Customisation | Uses C/AL with core code changes ((harder to upgrade) | AL extensions (easier and less risky) |
| Licensing | Server-based | Per-user subscription model |
| Integration | Limited integrations | Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Power Platform & Copilot |
| User Interface | Traditional desktop interface | Modern, intuitive web-based UI |
| AI & Insights | Limited reporting capabilities | Built-in AI, insights & real-time reporting (Copilot, Power BI) |
NAV
- Platform
- On-premise
- Updates
- Manual
- Customisation
- Uses C/AL with core code changes ((harder to upgrade)
- Licensing
- Server-based
- Integration
- Limited integrations
- User Interface
- Traditional desktop interface
- AI & Insights
- Limited reporting capabilities
Business Central
- Platform
- Cloud-based
- Updates
- Automatic
- Customisation
- AL extensions (easier and less risky)
- Licensing
- Per-user subscription model
- Integration
- Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Power Platform & Copilot
- User Interface
- Modern, intuitive web-based UI
- AI & Insights
- Built-in AI, insights & real-time reporting (Copilot, Power BI)
Why should businesses upgrade from NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central?
Here are some of key reasons why businesses should upgrade from NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central.
- Move to a cloud-based
Business Central runs on Microsoft’s cloud, removing the need for internal server management, backups, and security handling. - Access from anywhere
Cloud deployment allows businesses to access the system from anywhere with an internet connection. Businesses don’t have to worry about server maintenance or backups because Microsoft handles those tasks. - Automatic updates
Business Central provides automatic updates, ensuring businesses always have the latest features without manual upgrades. - Reduced upgrade complexity
NAV requires manual upgrades, which are time‑consuming and require additional work. - Easier customisation model
Business Central uses extensions (AL) instead of modifying core code like NAV, making updates easier and less risky. - Lower maintenance and disruption
Extensions allow changes without impacting the core system, reducing downtime and complexity. - More flexible licensing
Business Central uses a per‑user subscription model, allowing businesses to scale usage and costs based on the size of the team using the system. This makes it more cost-effective, especially for growing businesses, since they only pay for the exact number of users they need. - Improved integrations
Business Central is built to work seamlessly with the full range of Microsoft tools. Since it is part of the Dynamics 365 suite, it integrates smoothly with products like Office 365 (Outlook, Excel), Power BI, and Microsoft Dynamics CRM. This allows businesses to easily connect their ERP system with other essential tools they are already using, eliminating data silos and improving productivity. - Better data and insights
Integration with Power BI and Microsoft’s Common Data Service which helps unify data across different applications. This means that all data, whether from CRM, ERP, or other tools, can be accessed and used within Business Central for a single source of truth. - Future support and innovation
Microsoft have stopped new NAV releases and set an end date for support. After 11th January 2028, no version of NAV will receive any updates of any kind. Businesses must upgrade NAV to Business Central to stay supported and up to date.
Why upgrade from Dynamics NAV to Business Central with us?
We are Microsoft UK Partner of the Year, we can help you make a smooth transition from Dynamics NAV to Business Central. Our team will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring minimal disruption to your operations. Other key reasons why you should upgrade from NAV to Business Central with us.
- Proven expertise you can trust
With 30+ years of experience, we’ve helped hundreds of businesses modernise, streamline operations, and scale with confidence. - Seamless, low-risk migration
We plan and manage your upgrade end‑to‑end, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to your day-to-day operations. - ERP Solution tailored to your industry
From retail and jewellery to fashion and distribution, our ERP solutions are built around your sector to deliver real, measurable results. - More than implementation – a true partner
We support you at every stage, from planning and migration to training and ongoing optimisation. - Future-ready innovation
Unlock real-time insights, automation, and scalable systems to stay competitive and drive long-term growth.
Ready to upgrade from NAV to Business Central?
If your business is still using Dynamics NAV, now is the time to consider upgrading to Business Central. With support for NAV phasing out, moving to Business Central ensures you stay up to date with the latest features and security.
While migrating from NAV requires careful planning, with the right Microsoft partner like us, the transition can be smooth, well-managed, and with minimal disruption to your operations.
To discuss how we can help your business please book in a call with our Business Central consultants.