Migrating from ERP AX 2012, 2009 (Axapta) to Dynamics 365 Finance: Complete Guide, Benefits and Tips

In an increasingly competitive and evolving business world, having a robust and scalable enterprise resource planning (ERP) system is key to driving growth and efficiency. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance-formerly part of Dynamics 365 Finance and Operations-has positioned itself as one of the most robust solutions for companies looking to improve their financial and operational processes.

In this article, we will explore what Dynamics 365 Finance is, what its benefits are and what aspects we should consider to carry out a successful migration from ERP AX (Axapta) to Dynamics 365 Finance.

What is Dynamics 365 Finance?

Dynamics 365 Finance is a component of the Microsoft Dynamics 365 suite of business applications, focused on financial management, process automation and data analysis. When combined with other modules such as Supply Chain Management, Sales or Customer Service, organizations can enjoy a comprehensive platform to manage all their operations.

Some outstanding functionalities include:

Multi-entity and multi-currency financial management and consolidation.
Advanced real-time reporting.
Treasury and administrative process automation.
Native integration with other Microsoft products, such as Power BI, Office 365 and Power Automate.

Main advantages of migrating to Dynamics 365 Finance

Cloud architecture: Dynamics 365 Finance runs on the Microsoft Azure cloud, which provides greater flexibility, scalability and security. This reduces the need for local infrastructure and facilitates access to information from anywhere.
Continuous updates: With the cloud solution, Microsoft releases updates on a regular basis, ensuring that the system is always up to date with the latest innovations and complies with the latest regulatory requirements.
Improved user experience: The Dynamics 365 Finance interface is modern, intuitive and customizable, making the tool easier to adopt and reducing the learning curve.
Integration with the Microsoft ecosystem: Being fully integrated with tools such as Power BI, Power Apps, Microsoft 365 and Teams, collaboration and reporting processes are streamlined and improved.
Business intelligence and advanced analytics: Thanks to its integration with Power BI and Azure Machine Learning, it is possible to take advantage of predictive analytics, interactive dashboards and real-time reports to make more informed decisions.

Preparation prior to migration from ERP AX (Axapta) to D365 Finance

Although the benefits of migrating to Dynamics 365 Finance are significant, it is essential to carry out a series of previous steps that will guarantee the success of this process:

1.- Evaluation of the current system

Perform a detailed inventory of customizations, integrations, reports and modules in use in the current version of AX. This assessment will help determine the scope of the migration and the resources required.

2.- Data cleansing and standardization

Before starting the migration, it is advisable to clean the database, eliminate obsolete information and verify the quality of the data. This will reduce errors and problems in later phases.

3.- Review of customizations

Many AX customizations can be covered as standard or with preconfigured extensions in Dynamics 365 Finance. Review each customization to decide if it should be migrated, redesigned or discarded.

4.- Planning and goal setting

Define the timeline, milestones and key performance indicators (KPIs) you expect to achieve with the migration. This way, everyone involved will have a clear vision of the progress and expected results.

Key steps for a successful migration to Dynamics D365 Finance

Solution design: Work with an expert Dynamics 365 Finance partner to design a solution that meets your specific business requirements. During this phase, functional gaps are analyzed and workflows are defined in the new environment.
Configuration and development: Configure the system according to your business needs: account catalogs, financial dimensions, roles and user permissions. If you need extensions or custom developments, this is the time to carry them out.
Data migration: Use migration tools, such as Data Management in Dynamics 365, to import clean and validated information from AX. It is crucial to perform load tests and data reconciliation to avoid inconsistencies.
Testing and validation: Before launching the system into production, run functional, integrated and performance tests. Make sure that all critical business processes are operational and that the established requirements are met.
Team training: The human factor is determinant for the success of the migration. Train end users in the new processes and functionalities of Dynamics 365 Finance, making sure they feel comfortable with the tool.
Implementation and post-production support: Once the system is up and running, keep a support team available to address issues, provide advice and monitor performance. Monitor the defined KPIs to confirm that objectives are being met.

Practical tips for a smooth migration

Constant communication: Regularly inform all departments about the progress of the migration, expected changes and deadlines. Good communication reduces resistance to change and promotes collaboration.
Involve the leaders of each area: Identify Key Users to serve as liaisons between the IT department and the business teams. This ensures that real needs are reflected in the final solution.
Define a change management plan: The adoption of a new ERP involves cultural and organizational changes. A solid change management plan facilitates the transition and improves adoption.
Evaluate the use of agile methodologies: Agile methodologies such as Scrum or Kanban allow greater flexibility and adaptation during the project, ensuring continuous value delivery.
Choose a trusted partner: Working with a specialized Dynamics 365 team like Revertis increases the likelihood of success and reduces risks.

Thinking about migrating to Dynamics 365 Finance?

Migrating from ERP AX (Axapta) to Dynamics 365 Finance offers opportunities for optimization, automation and advanced analytics that can make a difference in the competitiveness of your organization. However, to take full advantage of these benefits, it is essential to carefully plan each stage of the migration, involve the various teams of the company and have reliable partners.

Companies that take this step with a solid strategy and the support of experienced professionals will be able to enjoy a modern, scalable platform that is ready to respond to the challenges of the future.

At Revertis we have a team of experts ready to accompany you in every phase of the project, contact us and find out how we can help you boost the financial and operational efficiency of your organization!

Migrating from ERP AX 2012, 2009 (Axapta) to Dynamics 365 Finance