Andrew Karasev

Great Plains Technology Partner News: Version Upgrade

Microsoft Dynamics GP version update should be entrusted to professional Great Plains consultant, as there are multiple scenarios, such as required service packs, upgrade paths (such as if you are on version 6.0 and need to get to version 10.0 – which intermediate steps should you make). 

If you have add-ons, you should first check with add-on ISV if the add-on is ready for the intended version.  During version upgrade process you may find that some of your tables contain so-called orphan records, where business logic is to some extend compromised and upgrade virtually stops – you will need to do data repair.  This is especially possible if you are using Great Plains really long time and already undergone numerous version upgrades.  If this is applicable to your company, please follow the recommendations below:

1.       Verify with your Great Plains reseller that you are current in annual enhancement program, meaning that you have access to new version license key.  If this is not the case, then you should have your Great Plains VAR to reenroll your organization into the program, reenrollment fee may be applicable.  If you are not sure who is your Great Plains Partner, please call Microsoft or approach Dynamics GP reseller in your area.  Usually what you need in order to change Great Plains Service Provider is to sign Change VAR form and fax it to Microsoft

2.       Design upgrade path with your Great Plains consultant.  Please, make sure that you have complete system backup and rollback scenario, as you would not like the idea to have your ERP system destroyed

3.       Service Packs concept.  When you are doing upgrade, it is generally not recommended to just install new version from your Great Plains CD or DVD.  Before you launch upgrade process you should apply newest Service Pack available.  If your intention is to upgrade to GP version 10.0, please know that it is especially vulnerable to service packs application.  For example, if you will try to launch GP 10.0 upgrade from CD, you will never get new security rolls upgraded for your existing GP users

4.       Dexterity customizations upgrade.  As all GP code, your unique Dexterity modifications should be reviewed by Great Plains Programmer and upgraded accordingly.  Please expect programming upgrade budget

5.       Last advice.  Great Plains ERP is intended for midsize businesses and these organizations typically have strong IT departments with formal policies and budgets on ERP system support.  If you are smaller organization, please do not rush into upgrade just hoping that everything will go smooth

Article Tags: Great Plains, Version Upgrade

Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com

ABOUT THE AUTHOR