From outdated to future-ready: how to transform your ERP with cloud
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From outdated to future-ready: how to transform your ERP with cloud

5 min read Jun 19, 2025

Still relying on an older on-premises ERP system such as Dynamics NAV, AX, or another legacy platform? If so, you're likely already facing challenges such as rising maintenance costs, limited scalability, and increasing pressure to modernize. Outdated systems often create barriers to compliance, cybersecurity, and talent acquisition, as today's workforce expects intuitive, user-friendly tools.

In a world where constant change is the new normal, simply patching your existing solution is no longer enough. The future demands a more flexible, secure, and innovative ERP platform.

That’s why more and more businesses are upgrading to cloud-based solutions like Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central or Finance & Supply Chain Management. Business Central is well-suited for midsize companies with standardized processes, while Finance & Supply Chain Management serves larger, more complex organizations. Ultimately, the right solution depends on your specific needs.

This blog explores why moving to the cloud isn’t just a technical upgrade, it’s a strategic decision. 

Five compelling reasons to move your ERP to the cloud

1. Reduce costs and refocus on your core business

Stop spending time and resources on server maintenance, backups, and manual security updates. With cloud ERP, you gain:

  • Predictable costs through a subscription-based model
  • Less IT overhead, more focus on business growth
  • Built-in scalability without hardware investments

Cloud ERP transforms upfront capital expenses into monthly license fees, improving budget control and aligning costs with business priorities. Your IT team can focus on driving innovation, like creating new data reports, system integrations, or supporting digital transformation, rather than putting out fires.

2. Scale effortlessly with your business

Whether you’re adding users, new modules, or expanding internationally, a cloud solution can scale with you:

  • Global access via Microsoft Azure
  • Quick adaptation to new market demands
  • Support for modern business models and expansion

Cloud ERP enables employees across locations to access the same system via the Internet, no VPNs, and without duplicated data. Rolling out to new sites is faster, and collaboration across regions becomes seamless. Scaling your operations becomes a matter of clicks, not costly IT overhauls.

3. Always up to date, without disruption

Say goodbye to time-consuming upgrade projects. With cloud ERP, you benefit from:

  • Continuous improvements with no downtime
  • Automatic security updates for better data protection
  • A future-proof platform that evolves with your business

New features like automation tools or enhanced reporting are rolled out automatically, reducing technical debt. Microsoft handles the updates and security, giving you peace of mind and a secure foundation for compliance-heavy industries.

4. More flexibility, less dependency on IT

Cloud ERP is designed for business users, not just IT specialists:

  • Easy customization of dashboards, workflows, and fields
  • Faster responses to shifting market and business needs
  • Reduced reliance on internal or external IT teams

Your teams can adjust the system independently, empowering experimentation and speeding up innovation. Adapting to new logistics requirements or changing customer expectations, your ERP can keep pace.

5. Innovation is built-in, not bolted on

With Dynamics 365, innovation is embedded in the platform:

  • Integrated tools for AI, Power BI, and process automation
  • Backed by Microsoft’s continuous R&D investment
  • Early access to cutting-edge technologies

Get access to predictive analytics, intelligent automation, and real-time data visualization—without buying extra software. This positions you to quickly embrace trends like AI, IoT, or ESG reporting, enhancing your competitive edge.

Common concerns and how we support your transition

Many businesses hesitate due to questions like:

  • “Are we ready for the cloud?”
  • “What about our customizations and historical data?”
  • “Should we choose Business Central or Finance & Supply Chain Management?”

BE-terna supports midsize and enterprise organizations through every step of the transition. As a trusted Microsoft Business Solutions Partner, we guide you from strategic planning to successful go-live.

How do we ensure a smooth and secure migration?

1. Strategic assessment and planning

Together, we define your needs, current processes, and future goals to select the right solution.

2. Clear migration roadmap

We help identify the data, processes, and integrations to migrate safely and efficiently.

3. Organizational buy-in and enablement

We ensure cross-functional involvement, so the solution supports your entire business.

4. Data preparation and testing

We assist with data cleansing, system testing, and user training to ensure a seamless launch.

Ready to future-proof your ERP?

Moving from on-premises ERP to the cloud is more than a technical change—it’s an investment in agility, efficiency, and innovation.

Let’s explore what’s right for your business. Start with a free, no-obligation Business Solution Assessment. Together, we’ll review:

  • Your current ERP setup
  • Which solution, Business Central or Finance & Supply Chain Management, fits your needs
  • What a secure, effective transition could look like

The first step doesn’t have to be big, but it can make a difference. 

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Topics
ERP
About the Author

Nicolai Hardahl

Managing Director, BE-terna Denmark