Office-like UIs for Dynamics GP and SL

Updated user interfaces (UIs) and support for strategic Microsoft platforms, such as SharePoint and SQL Server Reporting Services, are the most notable changes delivered in Dynamics GP 10.0 and Dynamics SL 7.0. The updates make the products easier to use and give partners a better, more modern technology foundation for extending them. GP and SL are among four enterprise resource planning (ERP) applications marketed under the Dynamics brand. The June 2007 releases deliver on Microsoft promises to update all four products while it moves to consolidate them. However, a recently appointed Microsoft Business Solutions leader could change the group’s approach to consolidation.

GP and SL Move Forward

Microsoft acquired Dynamics GP and Dynamics SL (formerly Great Plains and Solomon, respectively) in the 2001 purchase of Great Plains. Both products offer ERP software for midsize businesses: GP has historically been popular with public sector organizations, professional services companies (such as consulting or accounting firms), manufacturers, wholesalers, and retailers, whereas SL targets companies doing project-based work, such as construction firms. The products are sold predominantly in North America and together have more than 50,000 customers.