Microsoft has announced that Dynamics GP will now have a 6 month release cadence. So instead of waiting 2 years and releasing a BIG update, they will release small ones more often. This means, when new features are ready, you will get them sooner. Here’s a look at the upcoming release schedule:
| Version | # of New Features | Release Time Frame |
| GP 2013 | 125 | Late 2012 |
| GP 2013 SP1 (Service Pack 1) | 15 | Early 2013 |
| GP 2013 SP2 | 25 | Late 2013 |
| GP 2013 R2 | 40 | Early 2014 |
| GP 2015 | 40 | Late 2014 |
So in Dynamics GP 2013 we had 125 new features. Then before we get to the next new version we will have 80 new features released early. When Dynamics GP 2015 comes out, it will have 40 additional features. So if you do the math, we are still getting about the same amount of new stuff, but spaced out more evenly.
The question is, is this new cadence good for Dynamics GP customers? On one hand, it gives users the chance to more easily digest the changes in smaller increments. On the other hand, it means companies have to think about upgrades, and the cost and learning curve involved in them, on a more regular basis.
Many companies choose not to do Microsoft Dynamics GP upgrades on their own, but instead look to their for assistance. The Dynamics partner has access to test environments, knows if there are any issues with add-on tool compatibility and other concerns.
It really comes down to a question of ROI. If there is a feature that your company really wants sooner than later, you will likely choose to upgrade as soon as it is available. (For example, the addition of ) Otherwise, you may choose to wait for a few releases and then catch up. As long as you keep your active, you have access to the license keys to upgrade anytime.
However, do keep in mind that you will not get updates (such as payroll and tax updates) if you are not on supported version of Microsoft Dynamics GP. And it is always frustrating to hear about new features and then realize you can’t use them yet.
Are you considering purchasing Dynamics GP and wonder if you should you wait until the next is released before you purchase? That question, and many more are answered in the White Paper: 30 Questions Every CFO Must Ask About the Cost of Accounting Software available at
By CAL Business Solutions, Connecticut Microsoft Dynamics GP Partner,
