Hey there, recruiters! If you're in the world of sourcing top talent for Microsoft Dynamics 365, you may also have run into some legacy names like GP, NAV, and Solomon along the way. Let’s break down what D365’s current modules do, and how the older, classic systems (yep, GP, NAV, and Solomon) fit into the picture. Understanding these will help you match the right candidates to the right roles, whether they're working with the latest D365 suite or supporting older systems.
First, What is D365?
Dynamics 365 (D365) is Microsoft’s modern ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) and CRM (Customer Relationship Management) platform, with each module tailored to a specific business need. Companies can pick and choose which modules they need, making it adaptable for a variety of industries and business sizes.
But before we get to D365’s modern lineup, let’s acknowledge some classics:
The Legacy Trio: GP, NAV, and Solomon
Microsoft Dynamics GP: Originally known as Great Plains, GP is focused on financial and inventory management for small to medium-sized businesses. Though still in use by some companies, Microsoft now channels most development efforts into D365.
Microsoft Dynamics NAV: NAV is the predecessor to D365 Business Central and was popular with mid-sized businesses for its flexibility in financials, supply chain, and manufacturing. It’s common to see job profiles referencing both NAV and BC experience as companies transition from NAV to Business Central.
Microsoft Dynamics SL (Solomon): Primarily used in project-based industries like construction, Solomon offered strong project and accounting management. While it's now largely out of active development, some organizations continue to maintain it, especially in industries that heavily rely on project tracking.
And Now, the Modern Lineup: D365 Modules
Finance & Operations (F&O) Aka D365 Finance or D365 SCM
The powerhouse ERP solution in D365, F&O combines finance and supply chain management (SCM) capabilities. It’s the all-in-one suite for companies with complex needs like manufacturing, inventory management, and logistics.
Who uses it? Large enterprises or companies with extensive operational needs, such as those in manufacturing, retail, and distribution. If you see job descriptions that mention F&O, candidates are likely expected to handle intricate finance and operational processes.
Business Central (BC)
BC is the modern successor to NAV and is tailored for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a full suite of ERP capabilities, from accounting and project management to inventory and order processing, but with a user-friendly, cloud-based setup.
Who uses it? Small to mid-sized businesses, especially those looking to move from NAV. When you see BC in job profiles, you’re likely looking for candidates comfortable with ERP functions like financials and operations at a smaller scale.
Customer Engagement (CE)
This umbrella term includes several CRM modules within D365, each focusing on a different aspect of managing customer relationships:
Sales: Covers the sales cycle from lead generation to closing deals.
Customer Service: Manages cases, customer inquiries, and issue resolution.
Marketing: Supports campaign management and lead nurturing.
Who uses it? Any business focused on CRM, particularly in sectors like retail, financial services, and healthcare. Look for CRM experience and customer-focused skills in candidates.
Project Operations
An evolution of the capabilities in legacy SL, Project Operations supports project-based businesses. It covers everything from project planning and resource allocation to time tracking and billing.
Who uses it? Service industries that focus on complex, project-based work, such as consulting and construction. Candidates here often need project management expertise, as well as experience with billing and resource planning.
Field Service
For companies that operate outside of traditional office settings, Field Service manages mobile resources, schedules work orders, and enables real-time support.
Who uses it? Industries with mobile or distributed workforces, like utilities, healthcare, and telecommunications. Candidates with experience in logistics and mobile service support are a great fit here.
Human Resources (HR)
The HR module is built to handle everything from recruitment and onboarding to payroll and compliance management, helping companies centralize all HR operations.
Who uses it? Any company looking to streamline HR processes. When you see D365 HR in a job description, look for candidates familiar with HR data management, compliance, and payroll systems.
Understanding the Transition from Legacy to D365
So, why the shift from GP, NAV, and SL to D365? The main reasons are cloud accessibility, scalability, and integration with the broader Microsoft ecosystem. Many companies are still in the process of transitioning, which is why you’ll see job profiles asking for experience in both legacy systems (like NAV or GP) and their modern counterparts (like Business Central or F&O).
As a recruiter, understanding D365’s modular approach alongside its legacy systems equips you to source the right candidates for companies at any stage of their transition. Each module and legacy system has unique capabilities and industry relevance, so look out for the expertise that aligns best with the company's current needs.
Stay tuned for Part 2, where we’ll dive deep into experiences levels for candidates if they've worked in the Partner channel vs the End User side.
Update: here's the link to Part 2.
Dad Joke of the Day
How does a penguin build its house? Igloos it together.
Happy hunting!
DynamicsDad
Technically D365 Marketing is no longer a product. We now offer D365 Customer Insights, Data and Journeys to replace that functionality. 😃