Why Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, Why Now?

As businesses face increasing pressure to make faster, more informed decisions, the limitations of legacy ERP systems become painfully apparent. The integration of ERP systems with artificial intelligence for inventory management is transforming how organisations fundamentally operate, enabling real-time insights and automation that previous systems simply couldn’t deliver.

Many organisations find themselves at a critical inflection point. They’re operating with systems that haven’t kept pace with modern business demands, relying on disconnected spreadsheets and manual processes that create an illusion of control while introducing significant risks. The shift towards modern platforms like Microsoft’s Business Central represents a strategic pivot towards integrated, cloud-based solutions that deliver clarity and confidence in business data.

What drives organisations to consider a new ERP implementation?

According to Eirini Katsampa, Head of ERP at BCN, it often comes down to inefficiencies and a fundamental lack of clarity. Having worked as an accountant for nine years before moving into consultancy, she understands first-hand the frustrations of working with disconnected systems.

“If business cannot see clearly in their systems their data, stock, balance sheets, analysis… that is a need that could push them to consider another ERP system,” she explains. This clarity gap becomes particularly evident when businesses struggle with cost control, budget management, or when they find themselves managing business-critical information across multiple disconnected spreadsheets.

Despite recognising these challenges, many organisations hesitate to make the transition. The concerns are both practical and psychological: business disruption, fear of complexity, worries about losing control of data, and anxiety about potential cost overruns. There’s also the personal responsibility that stakeholders feel—what if they get the implementation wrong and end up with a system that doesn’t meet business needs? Eirini suggests reframing this transition as “an opportunity to do a clean start” with the security and functionality of a cloud-based Microsoft solution designed to meet standard business requirements out of the box.

What makes Business Central stand out in a crowded field of ERP solutions?

Integration with the broader Microsoft ecosystem creates immediate familiarity for users already comfortable with Excel, Word, and Teams. This seamless connection means users can leverage existing skills, importing journals from Excel or using familiar copy-paste functionality. For small and medium businesses, choosing a globally recognised platform provides confidence that support will always be available, and experienced consultants can guide them through the implementation process.

The day-to-day benefits for users are equally attractive. Remote accessibility from mobile devices or tablets provides flexibility for today’s distributed workforce. Having all business data in one place accelerates monthly processes like VAT returns. Most importantly, everything happens in real time—inventory costs update automatically with each transaction, data is analysed instantly, and there’s no waiting for overnight system refreshes.

BCN’s Approach

BCN’s approach to ERP implementation differs from traditional models by prioritising business experience alongside technical expertise. The company has built a team of professionals who haven’t just studied ERP systems—they’ve actually used them in real business environments. This practical foundation creates a shared language and understanding with clients, building trust during what can be a vulnerable transition period for businesses.

Looking forward, the integration of AI with ERP platforms like Business Central is creating new possibilities for businesses. As Ban Hasan notes, ERP is evolving “from a system of record to a platform that helps people make better decisions.” AI capabilities now embedded in Business Central support functions like demand forecasting, bank reconciliation, and natural language processing through Microsoft’s Copilot. These tools make advanced data analysis accessible to everyday users like finance managers and inventory planners, not just technical specialists.

The most innovative businesses today aren’t just collecting data—they’re making it work for them, creating insights that drive strategic planning and future growth. For organisations considering an ERP implementation, the advice is straightforward: look for a long-term foundation from a trusted provider, prioritise clean, centralised data, and choose a platform that can grow with your business. When evaluating implementation partners, seek out those who combine technical certifications with hands-on business experience—people who have faced the same challenges you’re currently navigating.