Top Questions About Migrating from Dynamics NAV to Business Central

If you’re currently using Microsoft Dynamics NAV, you’ve probably heard about Business Central — NAV’s modern successor. As Microsoft continues to invest in the cloud-first Business Central platform, many NAV users are asking the same question: Should we migrate — and if so, what should we expect?

Systema Solutions has guided countless businesses through this transition as a long-time Dynamics implementation specialist and a Microsoft Business Applications Partner. We’ve noticed the same set of questions come up in nearly every conversation. So we’ve rounded up the top FAQs from customers just like you — along with the answers to help you make an informed decision.

Why should we migrate from NAV to Business Central?

Business Central offers a more modern, cloud-enabled experience with regular updates, deeper integration with Microsoft 365 and Power Platform, improved reporting, and a more intuitive user interface. It also positions your organization for long-term innovation and scalability.

What new features do we get when we transition to Business Central?

Migrating to Business Central means gaining powerful new capabilities such as:

• Native Microsoft 365 integration.

• Embedded Power BI analytics.

• AI-powered insights and forecasting.

• Enhanced mobile capabilities.

• Improved bank reconciliation.

• Better workflow automation.

• More flexible dimensions and posting.

• Modern user experience.

• Simplified customization management.

What happens if we don't migrate?

Microsoft has ended support for NAV 2015 and 2018, and if your organization remains on this legacy version, you will eventually face these challenges:

• Declining support with eventual end-of-life.

• Increasing security vulnerabilities.

• Compatibility issues with modern operating systems.

• Growing technical debt.

• Difficulty finding skilled resources.

• Missing next-generation business capabilities.

While migration timing can be flexible, the eventual need to transition is inevitable as Microsoft evolves the Dynamics 365 platform.

Can we migrate in phases or must it be all at once?

Both options are viable:

• Phased approach: Migrate by company, department, or functionality area.

• Big bang approach: Complete migration in a single cutover.

Most organizations benefit from a phased approach that minimizes disruption, though this requires temporary integration between systems during transition. Your specific business cycles and peak periods should influence this decision.

How long will the migration take?

A typical migration takes between 3-6 months, depending on complexity. This includes:

• System assessment (2-4 weeks)

• Planning and design (2-4 weeks)

• Development and configuration (6-12 weeks)

• Data migration (2-4 weeks)

• Testing (2-4 weeks)

• Training and deployment (2-4 weeks)

Systema Solutions offers accelerated approaches for less complex environments, potentially reducing the timeline to 8-12 weeks. Contact us for a high-level assessment.

How much will the migration cost?

The cost varies based on several factors: your current NAV version, customization complexity, data volume, and chosen deployment method (cloud vs. on-premises). A comprehensive migration budget should include:

• Licensing costs (remember Microsoft's Bridge to the Cloud promotion, offering significant discounts).

• Implementation services.

• Custom development.

• Training.

• Data migration.

Most organizations find the total cost ranges from 50-150% of their original NAV implementation, though this investment typically delivers far greater value over time through reduced maintenance costs and improved functionality. We recommend a migration assessment to get an accurate estimate.

Can we keep our existing data?

Yes, Business Central provides robust data migration tools. Most standard NAV data transfers seamlessly to Business Central. The migration toolset has improved substantially with each release.

However, some considerations include:

• Very old data may require cleanup before migration.

• Custom tables require additional migration work.

• Documents like attachments may need special handling.

• Some historical data may be better archived than migrated.

What happens to our customizations when we migrate?

Business Central uses an extension-based development model rather than direct modifications to the base code. While this means customizations need to be redeveloped as extensions, it also brings a significant advantage—your customizations remain intact during updates. The initial investment in redevelopment pays dividends with every future update, as you'll no longer face the painful "merge" process that NAV users know all too well.

Will our integrations with other systems still work?

Business Central offers significantly improved integration capabilities:

• Modern REST APIs for all entities.

• Enhanced web services.

• Native Power Automate connectivity.

• Improved Excel integration.

• Better third-party connector ecosystem.

While existing integrations will need updates, the process is typically straightforward and results in more robust connections.

Will our users need extensive retraining?

While Business Central has a more modern interface, the core functionality remains similar to NAV. Most users adjust quickly, especially with role-tailored interfaces, familiar Microsoft Office integration, consistent terminology and process flows, and improved search and navigation features. We typically recommend a focused training program of 4-8 hours for most users, with additional time for power users and financial teams.

What ongoing support will we receive after migration?

Systema Solutions provides post-go-live 24x7 support, ongoing training, and system optimization. Microsoft also delivers regular updates and enhancements, especially in the cloud version.

Conclusion

The decision to migrate from NAV to Business Central represents more than a system update—it's a strategic choice about your organization's digital future. While the questions above cover the most common concerns, each business has unique considerations that should be carefully evaluated.

Remember that Microsoft's Bridge to the Cloud promotion offers significant financial incentives for transition, making now an ideal time to begin your migration journey. Our team of experienced consultants is ready to provide a personalized assessment of your specific situation and help you develop a migration strategy that minimizes disruption while maximizing return on investment.

Have questions we didn't cover? Contact us today for a personalized consultation about your NAV to Business Central migration.