Dynamics NAV

Discover the evolution of ERP excellence – From on-premise beginnings to modern, cloud-based business solutions tailored for today’s enterprises. Transform your business with the power of Dynamics 365 Business Central.

From Navision to Dynamics 365 Business Central:
A Legacy of Innovation

Dynamics NAV, originally launched as Navision, has been a cornerstone in the ERP world for decades. Starting as an on-premise application, it has evolved through various licensing models, ultimately becoming Dynamics 365 Business Central—a modern, cloud-based business solution.

History Highlights

  • Navision (1980s-2002)

Initially developed as an on-premise ERP solution tailored for small and medium-sized businesses.

  • Microsoft Acquisition (2002)

Rebranded as Microsoft Dynamics NAV, continuing as a powerful on-premise application.

  • Licensing Evolution

  • BRL (Business Ready Licensing): Flexibility to purchase modules based on business needs.
  • DPL (Dynamics Price List) Perpetual: One-time purchase model allowing access to the software into perpetuity through an active enhancement plan (EP).
  • Subscription Model: Introduced for businesses to access the software with lower upfront costs.
  • Dynamics 365 Business Central (2018-Present)

Transitioned to a cloud-first ERP, with options for on-premise deployment through Dual Use Rights.

  • Current Focus

Today, Dynamics 365 Business Central stands as a comprehensive, cloud-based business application, offering the flexibility to be deployed on-premise if needed, ensuring businesses have the right tools for growth and innovation.

Customer Case Studies

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microsoft Dynamics NAV?

Microsoft Dynamics NAV is an ERP solution originally known as Navision. It was designed for small and medium-sized businesses to manage finances, supply chains, and operations.

What is Dynamics NAV now called?

Dynamics NAV is now called Dynamics 365 Business Central, reflecting its evolution into a comprehensive, cloud-based business application.

Is Dynamics NAV still supported?

While Microsoft has transitioned to Dynamics 365 Business Central, existing Dynamics NAV customers still receive support based on Microsoft’s lifecycle policy and where enhancement plans (EP) are active.

Is Microsoft Dynamics NAV an ERP?

Yes, Microsoft Dynamics NAV is a complete ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) solution that helps businesses manage various aspects of their operations.

What is the difference between Dynamics 365 and Dynamics NAV?

Dynamics NAV is the predecessor of Dynamics 365 Business Central. Dynamics 365 encompasses a suite of business applications, including Business Central, which is the modern, cloud-based evolution of Dynamics NAV.

Is Navision outdated?

Yes, Navision has been replaced and rebranded over the years. It first became Dynamics NAV and is now known as Dynamics 365 Business Central.

What is Microsoft Dynamics NAV called now?

Microsoft Dynamics NAV is now called Dynamics 365 Business Central.

What replaced Navision?

Navision was first replaced by Microsoft Dynamics NAV and later evolved into Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Is Dynamics NAV still available?

Dynamics NAV is no longer sold as a standalone product; however, existing users can continue to use it. New customers are directed towards Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Is Microsoft Dynamics NAV a SaaS?

Microsoft Dynamics NAV was originally an on-premise solution, but its successor, Dynamics 365 Business Central, is available as a Software as a Service (SaaS) solution.

Is Dynamics NAV the same as Business Central?

Dynamics NAV is the predecessor of Dynamics 365 Business Central. Business Central is the modern, cloud-based version of the solution, offering enhanced features and cloud capabilities.

Can I get Business Central if I have Navision or Dynamics NAV

If you are active on your Annual Enhancement Plan (EP) then you can process what is referred to as a ZERO Dollar Transition Order to migrate you to Business Central Free of Charge.

Can I get the cloud version of Business Central if I have NAV?

Through promotions such as Bridge to Cloud II you can get access to the SaaS (Cloud Version) of Business Central. Contact us to help you achieve this.

What is the Annual Enhancement Plan (EP) for Dynamics NAV?

The Annual Enhancement Plan (EP) is a maintenance and support program offered by Microsoft for Dynamics NAV users. By enrolling in the EP, businesses receive access to the latest updates, hotfixes, and new releases of the software, ensuring their system stays up-to-date with the latest features and security enhancements. The EP also provides access to Microsoft’s support services, offering peace of mind and continued investment protection for businesses using Dynamics NAV.

To ensure your copy of NAV/Navision is legal, you should have received a valid license key from Microsoft or an authorized Microsoft partner at the time of purchase.  Partner may not deploy what is referred to as a ‘Developer Key’ for a customer. Additionally, legal copies are accompanied by proper documentation, including a software licensing term (SLT), and you should have access to official Microsoft support. If you are unsure about the legality of your software, you can verify it through your Microsoft partner or by contacting Dynamics Africa via 4Sight Channel Partner Cluster directly to confirm the authenticity of your license.

Drive Growth, Innovation, & Efficiency in Your Organization with Business Central

Contact us today to learn how Dynamics 365 Business Central can transform your business.