What Microsoft’s Modern Lifestyle Support Policy Means for Dynamics GP
Posted on: January 19, 2021 | By: Guy Logan | Microsoft Dynamics GP
Last month, we published blog posts that answered our most frequently asked questions regarding the switch from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Business Central and addressed whether companies should stay on Microsoft Dynamics GP. In this blog post, we will help users staying on Dynamics GP understand Microsoft’s Modern Lifestyle Policy and provide our prediction of how Microsoft will move forward with Dynamics GP.
The Modern Lifestyle Support Policy
Beginning with Dynamics GP 18.2 (released in October 2019), every Microsoft GP version will adopt Microsoft’s Modern Lifestyle Support policy. To ensure that users’ GP platforms are up to date, this policy requires users to install one of GP’s three annual updates in order to receive full support on updates and features.
Modern Lifestyle Support Policy vs. Fixed Lifestyle Policy
The Modern Lifestyle Support Policy in newer GP versions has replaced the Fixed Lifestyle Policy in Dynamics GP versions preceding 18.2. While the Fixed Lifestyle Policy provides users with support for a defined 10-year period, the Modern Lifestyle provides ongoing support with no definitive end date.
In the past, the Fixed Lifestyle policy has offered one or two new versions of Dynamics GP per year. However, these upgrades tended to be complex and costly. With the switch to a Modern Lifestyle policy, users of Dynamics GP 18.2 and beyond are guaranteed three updates per year, all of which will be simpler and more cost-efficient. Because the new support policy requires at least one update a year, Microsoft is making it easier for GP users to install updates.
Do all users need to upgrade their GP platform?
There are many upsides to upgrading your GP environment, such as access to new features, tax updates, and increased security. However, Microsoft will continue to support users who choose to stay on older versions of GP. That being said, if older GP environments encounter problems that can be addressed with a software update, Microsoft will not provide alternative solutions to help the user avoid an upgrade.
Even under the new Modern Lifestyle Policy, users can choose when they would like to upgrade their platform. Users are only required to update their platform once a year if they would like to receive full support on the newest GP features.
What’s Next?
The adoption of Modern Lifestyle support for Dynamics GP suggests that Microsoft will continue to update and improve the platform. Logan Consulting has helped numerous clients optimize and upgrade their GP platform; if you are interested in learning more about Dynamics GP or the Modern Lifestyle Support Policy, please do not hesitate to contact us.