Comprehensive Support for All Iterations of Great Plains and Dynamics GP

Jul 29
16:32

2024

Andrew Karasev

Andrew Karasev

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Discover the full spectrum of support available for every version of Microsoft Dynamics GP, its predecessors, and related platforms. From the earliest DOS-based systems to the latest Dynamics GP releases, this guide covers the essentials of maintaining and upgrading your financial management software, ensuring your business stays on the cutting edge of technology.

A Historical Overview of Great Plains and Dynamics GP Versions

Great Plains software has evolved significantly since its inception,Comprehensive Support for All Iterations of Great Plains and Dynamics GP Articles with various versions tailored to different operating systems and database platforms. Here's a brief rundown of the versions:

  • Microsoft Dynamics GP: Versions 11.0 (released in May 2010), 10.0, 9.0, 8.0, and 7.5.
  • Microsoft Great Plains: Version 7.0.
  • Great Plains on Pervasive SQL 2000/Ctree: Versions 7.5, 7.0, 6.0, 5.5, 5.0, 4.0, and 3.2.
  • Great Plains eEnterprise: Versions 7.0 and 6.0 (on MS SQL Server 2000 and 7.0).
  • Great Plains Dynamics C/S+: Versions 5.5, 5.0, 4.0, and 3.2.
  • Great Plains Accounting for DOS and Windows: Versions 9.5, 9.2, and earlier.
  • Mac versions of Great Plains Dynamics: Versions 5.0, 4.0, 3.2, and earlier.

Dynamics GP Upgrade Strategies

Upgrading your Dynamics GP system is crucial for maintaining access to the latest features and support. Microsoft Business Solutions recommends staying current with their annual enhancement program, which provides access to Customer Source, new version registration keys, and discounts on support cases. It's advisable to align your upgrade schedule with the versions directly supported by Microsoft, typically the two latest releases. As of December 2009, these were Dynamics GP 10.0 and 9.0. If you're using Dynamics GP 8.0 or 7.5, consider updating to Dynamics GP 10.0 promptly.

Upgrade Recommendations:

  • Early Adopters: Upgrade as soon as a new version is released.
  • Conservative Approach: Wait for the release of at least the first or second service pack.

Upgrading can be a complex process, requiring careful planning and execution. For those planning to upgrade, it's beneficial to hire Microsoft Dynamics GP migration experts to ensure a seamless transition. Their expertise will help you avoid common pitfalls and optimize the performance of the new system.

Support for Legacy Great Plains Versions

For businesses using older versions of Great Plains (7.0 and 6.0), it's possible to continue using these versions with the potential for future upgrades or amnesty programs from Microsoft. Great Plains had two main editions: Professional (on Microsoft SQL Server) and Select (on Pervasive SQL 2000/Btrieve and Ctree). The last version available on a non-Microsoft SQL Server platform was Dynamics GP 7.5. Transitioning Pervasive SQL 2000 servers to Windows 2003 or Windows 2008 Server is generally straightforward, requiring the opening of Pervasive SQL Port 1583. When moving a Microsoft SQL Server-based Great Plains version to new hardware, ensure compatibility with the supported database platform. For instance, Microsoft SQL Server 2005 is compatible with Dynamics GP 10.0, 9.0, and 8.0, provided the latest service pack is applied.

The Demise of Great Plains for Apple Macintosh

The competition between MS Windows, Mac, and Unix was intense in the late 1990s, particularly with the introduction of the Power Mac in 1995. Ultimately, Great Plains Software discontinued its Mac product line around version 5.0, marking a regrettable moment for Mac enthusiasts and the company's certified CPA and Great Plains consultants.

Supporting Great Plains Accounting for DOS, Windows, and Macintosh

Organizations still using Great Plains Accounting (GPA) for their corporate ERP application often need to be cost-conscious regarding support and upgrades. Support for GPA includes resolving issues with corrupted files and assisting with migrations from Windows NT to Windows 2003 or 2008, including the move of Pervasive SQL Server 2000 SP3.

Legacy Ecommerce Integration Support

Dynamics GP ecommerce solutions often involve eConnect programming and integration. eConnect reached maturity around 2006 or with the release of Microsoft Dynamics GP version 9.0.

Customization Support for Great Plains Dynamics

Customizations for Great Plains Dynamics were primarily developed using GP Dexterity in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Continued support for these customizations is essential for businesses relying on tailored solutions within their Great Plains environment.

For more detailed information or if your version isn't described in detail, please contact us for additional support. For the latest on Dynamics GP, visit the Microsoft Dynamics GP Community.