Many manufacturers using Microsoft Dynamics GP know that a move to Dynamics 365 Business Central may be in their future. The challenge is deciding when to migrate. For , the right answer was to continue getting value from GP while making targeted improvements that support the business today and leave future options open.
Rather than pushing an ERP replacement, focused on maximizing the return on CEIA-USA's existing Dynamics GP investment through responsive support, practical guidance, and strategic improvements.
Key Highlights
- CEIA-USA has relied on Microsoft Dynamics GP for nearly 25 years to support its manufacturing operations.
- Dexpro Dynamics recommended improvements based on business value rather than pushing an immediate Dynamics 365 Business Central migration.
- Targeted integrations and code cleanup improved efficiency while extending the life of the existing ERP system.
- The partnership provides ongoing Dynamics GP support while helping CEIA-USA prepare for future ERP decisions.
Why Did CEIA-USA Continue Using Microsoft Dynamics GP Instead of Migrating Immediately?
CEIA-USA designs, engineers, and manufactures security screening equipment used throughout North America, including walk-through metal detectors and non-metallic cargo inspection systems for commercial organizations and government agencies.
After nearly 25 years on Microsoft Dynamics GP, the company recognized that evaluating would eventually become important. However, they determined that an immediate migration was not the best business decision.
Instead, CEIA-USA wanted a trusted Dynamics GP partner who could:
- Keep their existing ERP system running efficiently
- Recommend improvements with a clear return on investment
- Help evaluate Business Central when the timing made sense
- Support long-term business goals rather than a predetermined software migration
Choosing a Dynamics GP Consulting Partner Focused on Long-Term Success
Before selecting Dexpro Dynamics, CEIA-USA evaluated several Microsoft Dynamics consulting firms.
According to Robert Schindler, Accounting and Information Systems Analyst at CEIA-USA, discussions with Dexpro Dynamics founder stood out because they focused on realistic support options and practical guidance for a future Business Central migration rather than a sales pitch.
Robert described working with Dexpro Dynamics as a "night-and-day difference" compared to the company's previous Dynamics GP partner, calling the experience a "breath of fresh air" because of the team's responsiveness and willingness to help.
Fast, reliable support matters because unresolved issues can grow into larger operational problems. Sometimes companies begin considering a new ERP system not because the software has failed, but because they no longer receive the support they need.
Targeted Dynamics GP Improvements That Delivered Business Value
Instead of recommending a large ERP project, Dexpro Dynamics first evaluated what actually needed improvement.
The team also provided honest guidance about return on investment. On one proposed upgrade, Dexpro Dynamics advised CEIA-USA that the expected ROI might not justify the cost. Rather than recommending additional consulting work, they explained the tradeoffs and allowed the customer to make an informed decision.
That same philosophy applies to Business Central migration planning. If the costs of moving outweigh the benefits, Dexpro Dynamics recommends continuing with Dynamics GP until the business is ready.
Manufacturing-Focused Dynamics GP Enhancements
The work centered on practical improvements designed for CEIA-USA's manufacturing environment, including:
- Warehouse management system integration
- Expense management software integration
- CRM web service feed upgrade
- Review and cleanup of custom code created by previous consultants
Each enhancement addressed specific operational needs without requiring a full ERP replacement.
How the Expense Management Integration Improved Efficiency
One of the most valuable improvements involved integrating CEIA-USA's external expense management application with Microsoft Dynamics GP.
The integration automatically transferred information such as:
- Expense type
- Associated employee
directly into GP.
As a result, employees reduced expense lookup time from approximately five minutes to just two clicks, saving time while improving visibility into company expenses.
Supporting Dynamics GP in a High-Security Manufacturing Environment
Because CEIA-USA serves both commercial customers and government contracts, the company operates under strict security requirements.
Rather than asking CEIA-USA to change its security standards, Dexpro Dynamics adapted its support process to fit those requirements. The team coordinated closely with internal staff and provided clear technical guidance whenever direct system access was not available.
Robert recalled one support request where a quick response from Dexpro Dynamics enabled him to resolve the issue himself in approximately 30 seconds. Small interactions like these helped build confidence throughout the relationship.
Dynamics GP Support Today with Business Central Guidance for the Future
Many Dynamics GP customers feel pressure to migrate immediately to Dynamics 365 Business Central.
Dexpro Dynamics takes a different approach.
The goal is to support Dynamics GP for as long as it continues delivering value. When Business Central becomes the right choice, the migration can happen from a position of preparation rather than urgency.
For CEIA-USA, that means:
- Maintaining a stable Dynamics GP environment
- Making strategic improvements where they provide measurable value
- Evaluating Business Central when the business is ready
- Building a long-term partnership based on trust and practical advice
Frequently Asked Questions
Should manufacturers move from Dynamics GP to Business Central immediately?
Not necessarily. If Dynamics GP continues meeting business requirements, targeted improvements and ongoing support may provide greater value than an immediate ERP migration.
How can manufacturers extend the life of Microsoft Dynamics GP?
Manufacturers can extend the value of Dynamics GP through strategic integrations, selective upgrades, custom code reviews, and responsive support that addresses operational needs without unnecessary projects.
Does Dexpro Dynamics still support Microsoft Dynamics GP?
Yes. Dexpro Dynamics continues supporting Dynamics GP customers while helping them evaluate Dynamics 365 Business Central when the timing aligns with their business goals.
Talk to Dexpro Dynamics About Your Dynamics GP Strategy
Whether you're evaluating a future move to Dynamics 365 Business Central or simply want to get more value from your current Dynamics GP investment, Dexpro Dynamics can help you assess your options and determine the right path for your business.