This article was originally written by Avanade alum Hakan Donmaz.

We live in an increasingly volatile, uncertain, and unpredictable world. Rapid change and development – both in technology and in our world more widely – can make it hard to keep up. And the COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated this change further, with companies having to rapidly change from full-time office work to flexible home-working.

In this environment, organizations face the challenge of adapting their technologies. One tool that could help them is cloud systems. In particular, the Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations cloud brings new levels of flexibility and efficiency to organizations’ operations. And, by teaming up with the right partner, you can make migration from on-site systems to this cloud smooth, seamless, and risk-free. 

One cloud, countless benefits
But why should you switch? Too often, only the risks of moving to a cloud system are emphasized. In fact, the benefits far outweigh the disadvantages. From reduced costs to increased security and accessibility, let’s take a look at some of the biggest advantages.

 

Security. It’s the worst fear of businesses everywhere: being hacked can cause severe financial and reputational damage. So, it’s not surprising that for too long, security concerns have put people off migrating to cloud systems. In fact, the cloud keeps your data safer! Personal data used for Microsoft solutions is guarded by Microsoft 24/7, and risks such as security breaches are monitored. The ultimate result? No more worries about securing on-premises devices!

Accessibility. When applications are available in the cloud, users can access them anywhere, anytime, from any device. This means everyone can easily connect with their colleagues – even when they’re not working from the office. In addition, it also decreases speed drops and the chance of the server becoming overloaded. A win-win situation!

Reduced costs. It’s not just security and accessibility where the cloud wins – it can also dramatically reduce costs. With no more need for your own on-site data center, you can wave goodbye to the costs for the building, electricity, servers, network, staff… the list goes on!

Updates. Want to ensure your technology will stand the test of time? The cloud is the ultimate way to keep up with technological change. Microsoft provides monthly updates for the Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations cloud, so you’ll always have the latest version running. What’s more, new features can be easily added to avoid using independent software vendors (ISVs) or enhancing the application.  

Your cloud migration journey
So, you’re thinking of making the switch – what happens next? It’s true that migrating from AX2012 to the Dynamics 365 cloud can be a complex process. But don’t fear! The right approach, tools, and partner will make the transition as smooth as you could wish for. 

It all starts with your vision and strategy. Performing a technical and functional analysis of the current on-premises environment helps identify the cloud architecture and the right tools to guide the migration. This cloud migration plan is the foundation of the project.

Above all, your plan will be tailored to your needs. Perhaps a ‘big bang’ approach doesn’t fit your business, culture, or infrastructure? No worries! Indeed, a hybrid migration with phased implementation can minimize the risk of unforeseen costs, downtime, and security breaches when guided by the right partner. Once migration is complete, your application is monitored 24/7 by Microsoft.

The sky is the limit
Over the next few years, we expect to see more businesses than ever switching to cloud systems. Indeed, it’s likely to become the standard way to store your data. And as this shift takes place, we’ll be here along the way to support you with your own organization’s transition. Say hello to better security, increased accessibility, and always being up to date!

Want to learn more about how Avanade can help you migrate to Microsoft’s Dynamics 365 Finance & Operations cloud? Check out our roundtable session with Microsoft and DGS.