Dynamics NAV 2013 - Preview Part 1

As the new version of Microsoft Dynamics NAV , NAV 2013, is due for release in October 2012, we thought you would like to know a bit of information about the update.

The release will enhance Microsoft Dynamics NAV by including:

Deployment Flexibility

Microsoft is committed to providing the widest range of options for the deployment of Microsoft Dynamics NAV. You can already deploy your solution on your premises or choose to engage a hosting Partner who will run the software from their data centres. Many customers are deciding to have Microsoft Dynamics NAV hosted and managed by a third-party. These customers do not have to maintain their IT infrastructure and the staff associated with traditional on-premises implementations. They pay for their ERP solution on a per-user, per-month basis using operational expenditure instead of capital expenditure.

Web Client

As well as the Role Tailored Client, Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2013 will include a web browser capability that will enable users, whether they are running on premises or in the cloud, to access Microsoft Dynamics NAV through the Internet Explorer on their PC.

This capability will reduce the time taken to deploy the solution, because no software will need to be installed on individual user’s computers. The learning curve for users is dramatically reduced as they will already be comfortable with web browser functionality.

Additionally, both client options will allow remote users to access the solution via an internet connection whether hosted or on-premise.

Please note, the classic client will no longer be an option from NAV 2013 onwards.

SharePoint Integration

A wide range of businesses are harnessing the diverse functionality that SharePoint offers. In NAV 2013, Microsoft will introduce integration to SharePoint that will allow your users to get more out of both SharePoint and Microsoft Dynamics NAV. The SharePoint integration will enable the following scenarios:

The delivery of Microsoft Dynamics NAV through SharePoint - Deployment through SharePoint offers the same benefits as with the NAV 2013 web client. No software needs to be installed on a user’s individual PC which reduces the cost of deploying and maintaining the product across a distributed user environment.

Self-Service Applications - Now self-service solutions can be deployed with data going directly to and from Microsoft Dynamics NAV. For example, time registration and expenses can be more effectively delivered through SharePoint instead of requiring individuals to log into an ERP system.

Rich Business Applications - You can choose to deploy Microsoft Dynamics NAV Portal Framework to tightly integrate ERP data and processes with content that is typically found in SharePoint. For example, you could add purchasing functionality to a procurement portal where contracts, specifications, and details of alternative suppliers are stored.

Enhancements to Application Functionality

Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2013 will provide considerable enhancements to the existing functionality that is already available in Microsoft Dynamics NAV.

For the RoleTailored user interface, context-sensitive charts and Fact Boxes will be included to give the user better data access and to minimize data entry times.

The data visualization capabilities will be enhanced to support better decision making. Users will be able to see projected availability, supply/demand, forecast, and suggested planning changes in one integrated view.

Core functionality will continue to be a focus for development. VAT compliance and tax reporting will be simplified. The kitting, cost accounting and cash flow forecasting capabilities will also be upgraded in NAV 2013.

Microsoft Dynamics NAV data will be available through ODat, the new industry standard interface, and integration to PowerPivot for Microsoft Excel will be enabled.

We will release further information about NAV 2013 when it becomes available from Microsoft in the months leading up to the release date

Jesse Lawrence

Jesse is our marketing manager, keeping an eye on the latest news in the market as well as having worked on the GDPR legislation.