Microsoft Great Plains vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 (Detailed Comparison) 

Microsoft Great Plains (GP) and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are both powerful business management software solutions offered by Microsoft, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics. 

If you are confused about their nuances, you have come to the right place, we will walk you through- 

Is Great Plains Part of Microsoft Dynamics? 

Yes, Great Plains is part of Microsoft Dynamics.  

In 2001, Microsoft acquired Great Plains Software and rebranded its products as Microsoft Dynamics GP.  

Microsoft Dynamics GP is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution for small and medium-sized businesses.  

It provides a wide range of features, including financial management, human resources, manufacturing, supply chain management, and customer relationship management (CRM). 

What is Microsoft Replacing Great Plains with? 

Microsoft is not replacing Great Plains directly.  

However, it is promoting Dynamics 365 Business Central as its preferred ERP solution for small and medium-sized businesses.  

Read about Business Intelligence and Reporting in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP

Is Great Plains the Same as Microsoft Dynamics GP? 

Yes, Great Plains is the same as Microsoft Dynamics GP. The two names are used interchangeably. 

Learn more about what is the best match for your business now! 

What Are the Key Differences? 

Microsoft Great Plains (GP): 

Microsoft Great Plains, often referred to as Microsoft Dynamics GP, is like a reliable, traditional family sedan.  

It’s been around for a while, known for its stability and versatility.  

Think of it as the tried-and-true workhorse of business software. 

• On-Premises Focus: GP is primarily an on-premises solution, which means you have more control over your data and software, but it requires you to manage your own servers and infrastructure. 
• Functionality: GP provides comprehensive financial and operational management tools. It’s especially robust when it comes to managing finances, accounting, and inventory. 
• Customization: It offers a high degree of customization, allowing you to tailor the software to your specific business needs. It’s like having a car with countless optional features. 
• Legacy Feel: While it’s dependable and flexible, it might feel a bit old-school in comparison to cloud-based solutions. It’s like driving a classic car – timeless, but not the most technologically advanced. 

Microsoft Dynamics 365: 

Microsoft Dynamics 365 is like a sleek, high-performance sports car. 

It’s designed for businesses that want agility, scalability, and advanced capabilities. 

It’s all about embracing the latest technology trends. 

• Cloud-Centric: Dynamics 365 is cloud-based, offering scalability, flexibility, and easy access from anywhere. It’s like having a sports car that can go from 0 to 60 mph in no time. 

• Suite of Apps: Dynamics 365 consists of various applications (Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, Finance, etc.) that seamlessly integrate with one another. It’s like having a sports car that can transform into a luxury sedan or an off-road vehicle when needed. 
• Real-Time Insights: It leverages data and AI to provide real-time insights, helping you make data-driven decisions. It’s like having a sports car with a futuristic dashboard that gives you instant performance metrics. 
• Continuous Updates: Microsoft constantly updates and improves Dynamics 365, ensuring you’re always at the forefront of technology. It’s like getting regular upgrades to your car, keeping it cutting-edge. 

What are the Key Benefits? 
 Microsoft Great Plains (GP) 

• Stability and Reliability: Just like a well-built family sedan, GP is known for its stability. It has a long track record of being a reliable solution for businesses, ensuring your operations run smoothly. 
• Customization to Fit Your Needs: GP offers a high degree of customization. It’s like having a car with numerous optional features – you can tailor it to suit your specific business requirements. This means you’re not locked into a one-size-fits-all approach. 
• Comprehensive Financial Management: GP excels in financial management. It’s like having a seasoned financial advisor at your side, providing robust tools for managing accounting, budgeting, payroll, and more. 
• Control Over Your Data: With GP, you have on-premises control over your data. It’s like having your own private garage where you can securely store and manage your business information. 
• Proven Track Record: GP has a legacy feel, like a classic car, which translates to a well-established and trusted solution in the business world. You’re investing in a system with a history of success. 

Microsoft Dynamics 365: 

• Scalability and Flexibility: Dynamics 365, like a high-performance sports car, is designed for agility. It’s cloud-based, allowing for easy scaling as your business grows. This means you can adapt to changing needs swiftly and efficiently. 
• Integrated Suite of Apps: Dynamics 365 is like having a versatile vehicle with interchangeable parts. The suite of applications (Sales, Marketing, Customer Service, etc.) seamlessly work together, providing a unified platform for all your business functions. 
• Real-Time Insights for Informed Decisions: It’s like having a state-of-the-art dashboard in a sports car. Dynamics 365 leverages data and AI to give you real-time insights. This empowers you to make data-driven decisions on the fly, ensuring you’re always in the driver’s seat. 
• Always Up-to-Date Technology: With Dynamics 365, you’re driving the latest model. Microsoft provides continuous updates and improvements, keeping you at the forefront of technology. You’ll always have access to the newest features and capabilities. 
• Anywhere, Anytime Access: Like a sports car that can go anywhere, Dynamics 365 is cloud-based, giving you the freedom to access your business data and applications from anywhere in the world. This enables a modern, mobile way of doing business. 

Trust The Best, Become The Best in The Game! 

As trusted Gold Microsoft Partners, we’ve been at the forefront of IT solutions for over 30 years, serving clients in 23+ countries. 

Our expertise lies in crafting tailored Microsoft Dynamics 365, LS Central, Azure Cloud, and Power BI solutions. 

Join over 2200+ businesses who’ve thrived on our ERP, CRM, Analytics, and retail solutions.  

Elevate your business with our unwavering commitment to robust IT services and solutions. 

Learn more about Microsoft Great Plains (GP) and Microsoft Dynamics 365 in detail, and what will be the best for your business.