End of Support for Dynamics SL 2018: What it Means and How to Start Your Cloud ERP Migration | Quisitive
General Quisitive gradient background
End of Support for Dynamics SL 2018: What it Means and How to Start Your Cloud ERP Migration
September 1, 2024
Quisitive
Microsoft ended mainstream support for Dynamics SL 2018 on July 11, 2023. See what this means for your Cloud ERP and how to migrate ERP today.
Feature Image Dynamics SL End of Support

As Microsoft Dynamics SL 2018 is the last major release, be aware of the risks this poses to your business as Microsoft begins End of Support for Dynamcis SL 2018. Here is the latest product lifecycle from Microsoft: 

Microsoft ended mainstream support for Dynamics SL 2018 on July 11, 2023. This means Microsoft no longer provides updates, fixes, or service packs for functionality problems. 

Extended support is available until July 11, 2028, but it only includes security updates at Microsoft’s discretion—and only for customers with active support or maintenance plans. After this date, you won’t be able to purchase support or receive any fixes, updates, or assistance for Dynamics SL. 

This end-of-support timeline poses significant risks to your organization’s financial operations, efficiency, and security, making it imperative to plan a migration to a modern cloud ERP system. 

What are the Risks of Staying on Dynamics SL?  

Remaining on an unsupported platform like Dynamics SL exposes your business to: 

  • Security vulnerabilities: Without regular updates, your system may become a target for cyberattacks. 
  • Operational inefficiencies: Outdated technology can limit productivity and innovation. 
  • Compliance risks: Unsupported systems may not meet evolving regulatory requirements, putting your organization at legal risk. 

Migrating to a modern Cloud ERP solution helps ensure your systems remain secure, scalable, and future-proof. 

What Are the Best Cloud ERP Options for Dynamics SL Users? 

There are great options available for organizations looking to migrate from Dynamics SL. These Cloud ERP solutions are scalable, modern, secure, and offer advanced tools and features like AI-driven analytics and Copilot-enabled workflows.   

  1. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central: A comprehensive, modern ERP solution built on the Microsoft ecosystem, ideal for businesses looking for scalability and deep integration with tools like Microsoft 365. Learn more about Business Central  
  1. Sage Intacct: A robust financial management solution with powerful automation and reporting features, designed to streamline accounting and compliance processes. Learn more about Sage Intacct.  

Both are strong options for Dynamics SL users seeking a seamless migration to a true cloud ERP. 

Quisitive offer options that are true cloud offerings. Microsoft Dynamics Business Central and Sage Intacct https://quisitive.com/business-applications/unanet/ are viable options for Dynamics SL customers to consider.   

Not sure which Cloud ERP is right for you? Take our free Cloud ERP Quiz to find out! 

How to Start Your Dynamics SL Migration?  

  1. Assess Your Current Environment:  

Conduct a comprehensive review of your Dynamics SL setup. Identify customizations, third-party integrations, and mission-critical processes. Proper documentation ensures you don’t overlook any key components during the migration process. 

  1. Evaluate Business Central and Sage Intacct Features:  

Understand your organization’s needs and compare them to the functionality offered by Business Central or Sage Intacct. A modern ERP can automate workflows, improve reporting, and offer scalability your current system lacks. 

  1. Engage an Expert Partner for a Migration Assessment: 

Partnering with experts like Quisitive is crucial. With over 35 years of ERP experience, Quisitive specializes in Dynamics SL migrations and is recognized as Microsoft’s Global Partner of the Year and a Premier Sage Intacct reseller. We help analyze your existing setup, conduct a fit/gap analysis, and recommend the best Cloud ERP for your business, budget, and needs.  

  1. Plan for Data Migration:  

Define a clear strategy to migrate critical historical data, including financial records, compliance documentation, and customer data. Evaluate which datasets must be migrated versus archived to avoid unnecessary complexity. 

  1. Develop a Change Management Plan:  

Prepare your team for the new system with training, communication, and process adjustments. Change management ensures a smoother adoption and minimizes resistance during the transition. 

  1. Pilot and Test the New System:  

Run a small-scale pilot to identify potential issues before a full rollout. Testing helps ensure data integrity, system accuracy, and user readiness. 

  1. Go Live with Full Support:  

Deploy the system organization-wide with post-go-live support to address issues, train users, and provide ongoing assistance during the transition. 

How can Quisitive help ensure a smooth Cloud ERP migration?

Quisitive offers tailored migration assessments to help organizations transition from Dynamics SL to a modern ERP system. Our team ensures minimal business disruption, focusing on secure data migration, process optimization, and end-user training. 

Don’t Wait—Secure Your ERP Future Today 

The end of support for Dynamics SL is a critical moment for organizations still using the platform. By planning a thoughtful migration to Business Central or Sage Intacct, you can mitigate risks, improve efficiency, and future-proof your operations. 

Start your migration journey today. Contact Quisitive for a migration assessment and take the first step toward a modern, scalable ERP solution. 

[email protected]  

For additional resources: