What’s included in the October 2023 release of Dynamics GP

Dynamics GP is an established and standalone enterprise resource planning (ERP) that includes everything you need to run your business. Microsoft recently released the October 2023 update of GP, Dynamics GP 18.6. In this post, we will highlight the updates we believe are most valuable that were included in the October 2023 release of Dynamics GP.

The October 2023 release of Dynamics GP brings a range of small-scale enhancements to different software functions. Some of the notable updates include:

• Redisplay button in the financial summary inquiry section: This new button allows users to easily redisplay information in the financial summary inquiry, providing improved accessibility and usability.
• Blank-picking ticket templates for print sales order processing: This feature allows users to create blank-picking ticket templates for sales order processing, streamlining the printing process and enhancing efficiency.
• Writing assistant for final notice collection letters and HR expiring tests: Dynamics GP now offers a writing assistant feature for final notice collection letters and HR expiring tests. This tool provides assistance and suggestions to users while composing these important documents.
• Print and email cash receipts: Print and email cash receipts have been upgraded in previous releases, and this update further refines these processes, making it easier to manage cash receipts efficiently.
• Project time and expense workflow nav lists: The project time and expense workflow nav lists have also undergone refinement in this release, optimizing the workflow processes and improving visibility and tracking.
• Payroll year-end wage reports: Payroll year-end wage reports have been enhanced, ensuring accurate and comprehensive reporting for year-end processes.
• Reverse fiscal year-end close by company: The reverse fiscal year-end close feature is now iterative meaning that users can review information company by company, providing more flexibility to teams that rely on Dynamics GP.
• Share Mailbox with MFA Enabled: Users can now set up a shared mailbox with multi-factor authentication enabled, providing heightened security.
• Format Workflow Emails with Item Decimals: Over 60 votes in the suggestion database led to this feature being implemented, allowing users to format workflow emails with item decimals.

The release became available on October 2nd. Along with these new features, there are other minor additions that GP users will appreciate, including various project time and expense updates.

An exciting feature in this release is the inclusion of lines in all payables 1099 forms, such as MISC, INT, DIV, and 1099-NEC. In the previous version, line printing was limited to 1099-NEC forms only. With this update, all 1099 forms, including 1099-MISC, -INT, and -DIV, can now be printed on blank paper, eliminating the need to purchase pre-printed templates.

Microsoft previously announced that the 2022 October release of Dynamics GP would be the final release with major feature updates, meaning the October 2023 release of the software would not include significant new feature updates. Microsoft made it clear that their focus would shift towards deploying annual releases that mainly encompass tax, compliance, and security enhancements, rather than introducing new modules or major functionality.

Microsoft’s strategic decision not to incorporate major new feature updates for Dynamics GP is driven by their intention to concentrate on investing in significant new features, capabilities, and modules for their Dynamics 365 cloud offerings. By directing their focus towards the cloud-based solution, Microsoft aims to align with the evolving requirements of businesses and provide enhanced functionalities through their Dynamics 365 suite.

In April 2023, Microsoft announced that the sale of Dynamics GP to new customers would be discontinued by 2026. Despite this decision, Microsoft has committed to honoring the lifecycle roadmap for Dynamics GP, pledging support for the product until 2028. However, it is evident that Microsoft’s research and development efforts are shifting towards the Dynamics 365 family of cloud-based products, with fewer updates and new features expected for Dynamics GP. Instead, updates will primarily focus on hotfixes and tax and regulatory compliance. 

This announcement has prompted existing Dynamics GP users to contemplate their options for the future. One attractive choice is to migrate to a new ERP system that offers modern, cloud-based solutions. Dynamics 365 Business Central, Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations, or NetSuite are excellent alternatives, providing robust functionality and offering a clear roadmap for future investments, new features, and updates. At Rand Group, we specialize in assisting organizations with the transition from Dynamics GP to modern ERPs like Dynamics 365 or NetSuite. Our team of software experts has developed a proven methodology for migrating to these platforms, ensuring a smooth and seamless transition. We understand the technology changes that come with adopting a new ERP system and will work closely with your organization to ensure a successful migration.

The October 2023 release brings a handful of small-scale updates including updates to 1099 forms. It is important to note that GP clients are required to take at least one update a year to remain current on the Modern Lifecycle Policy and to continue to receive support from Microsoft. Additionally, by implementing this update, you can unlock the full potential of Dynamics GP and ensure compliance with the latest regulations.

By upgrading Dynamics GP with Rand Group as your support partner, you can capitalize on these improvements and take your business to new heights of efficiency and productivity. Stay ahead of the curve and empower your organization with the latest advancements in Dynamics GP. Contact Rand Group today to embark on your upgrade journey and unlock the full potential of your system.