It's not all bad news!
Extended Support for NAV 5 will continue until 11 April 2017.
How does this affect you?
If you are using NAV 2009 SP1 or newer then it probably doesn’t, otherwise you might want to consider an upgrade if you can answer yes to any of the following:
Do you need to be on a version that is on Mainstream support?
Are you looking to upgrade other systems that integrate with NAV that may require an update to NAV? (i.e. Windows, SQL Server, Office, CRM etc.)
Is there functionality in the latest version of NAV which could benefit your company?
Do you have an issue that is fixed in the latest version of NAV?
Do you need to upgrade to the latest version of NAV?
No. Dynamics NAV Partners will support older versions of NAV, but you do run the risk that a fix to the client software may not be possible although you may sometimes be able to do a client only upgrade to solve some compatibility issues.
Can you upgrade?
If you are on a current Business Ready Enhancement Plan (BREP), then you are entitled to use the latest copy of the client software and application objects free of charge. There is however a cost related to the services required to carry out the upgrade, including client installation, data upgrade and migration of modifications to the new objects, these costs can vary depending on the size of your database and amount of modifications and in most cases a bespoke quote will be required from your NAV Partner.
When should you upgrade?
This is down to personal preference and risk assessment. If you want to ensure the highest level of support from Microsoft, then you should ensure you stay on a version with Mainstream support. If however you are happy that your system has been running satisfactorily, your partner can support your current version. If you aren’t planning any infrastructure upgrades any time soon, then you might want to consider if upgrading offers you any benefits.
You can download the Microsoft Feature Enhancements Roadmap to read more on the latest versions of Dynamics NAV and you can visit the Microsoft Dynamics NAV Support Lifecycle Policy FAQ to gain more information about NAV Support now and in the future.
Tom Jenkins
Tom is one of the founding directors of Dynamics Consultants. He has worked on ERP / CRM systems since 1995, initially as an end user and later as a developer/consultant.
Before founding Dynamics Consultants, Tom worked in a management role for a machinery importer / reseller, where his work included inventory management and purchase control, systems development, and IT project management.
