Understanding ERP migration

The right path from legacy ERP to Dynamics 365

Between like-for-like and process optimisation

Migrating from a legacy ERP such as Dynamics AX or NAV to Dynamics 365 is much more than a technical step: it determines how efficiently, flexibly and sustainably your company works in the cloud. Between like-for-like migration (purely technical update of the platform) and process optimisation, there are two basic approaches to choose from: fast, close to the status quo, but with little business benefit, or strategic, modernised and optimally geared towards the cloud, but more complex. And in between, of course, there is a wide range of ‘hybrid forms’. The right approach depends on your goals, your starting point and the desired degree of transformation. We support you in finding the optimal path between these two approaches and successfully implementing your transformation.

Planning ERP migration correctly

A successful ERP migration requires structure, clarity and experience. adesso supports you in migrating your legacy ERP to Microsoft Dynamics 365 in a targeted manner – from analysis and planning to go-live. With our proven migration assessment, we lay the foundation for a smooth, secure and future-proof ERP transformation.

Our approaches at a glance

Like-for-like migration (lift and shift)

With the like-for-like approach, your existing ERP system is transferred to the cloud almost 1:1. Processes and functionalities remain largely unchanged – the focus is on fast and secure technical migration.

Your advantages:

  • Fast and pragmatic: minimal process changes, rapid implementation
  • Less training required: existing working methods are retained
  • Continuity: proven processes and data structures remain in place
  • Cost-efficient: Lower initial costs

What you should bear in mind:

  • Modern cloud functions are only used to a limited extent
  • Existing inefficiencies remain
  • Long-term maintenance costs may be higher

Ideal for: Companies that want to move to the cloud at short notice while retaining their processes.

Migration with process optimisation

This approach combines migration with process analysis and optimisation to fully leverage the benefits of Dynamics 365 and generate business value. The goal is to digitise, automate, streamline and standardise your business processes.

Your advantages:

  • More efficient processes: Increased productivity through optimised workflows
  • Maximum cloud utilisation: Modern technologies such as AI and real-time analytics are used to their full potential
  • Future-proof: Processes are flexible and scalable
  • Long-term cost efficiency: Standardised procedures reduce process effort and maintenance costs

What you should consider:

  • Analysis and optimisation require more time and resources at the beginning
  • Initial project costs are higher, but operating costs tend to be lower

Ideal for: Companies that want to strategically improve their processes and become more competitive in the long term.

ERP migration:
Which path suits you best?

Whether you opt for rapid like-for-like migration or choose the path of migration with process optimisation, the key factor is that your transformation fits your company's goals and framework conditions.

Like-for-like migration enables a rapid transition that leaves existing processes largely unchanged. Migration with process optimisation, on the other hand, opens up the opportunity to strategically modernise processes and leverage the full potential of the cloud to benefit your business.

With our extensive experience in Dynamics 365 transformations, we can help you find the optimal mix of both approaches. This ensures that your ERP migration is pragmatic, efficient and future-proof, without having to compromise on speed or quality.

Do you have any questions?

Let's discuss how we can implement your ERP project. I look forward to meeting with you.