Baan ERP vs Dynamics 365 Business Central: Which One Is the Right Fit?
When you are using the right ERP system, your day to day business tasks get easier. Whether it is performing major tasks like tracking inventory or managing money, or internal tasks like keeping teams on the same page and yes, keeping your customers happy. If you’re still relying on old tools or systems that don’t communicate with each other, it makes it hard to share information quickly, so chances are very high that you’re wasting time and missing chances to grow.
If you look up on the internet or ask experts, two names frequently appear in these discussions: Baan vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP. One is a long-time player that made its mark in big industries. The other is a newer, cloud-based system that’s easy to use and built for growth.
So, which one fits your business better in 2025?
Let’s break it down in plain language so you can decide with confidence.
A Quick Look at Baan ERP vs and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central
What is Baan ERP?
Baan ERP is an ERP software that started in the 1990s. It was a strong tool in manufacturing and industrial companies. Over time, it became part of Infor, a big software group. Many companies still use it today, especially in heavy industries.
What is Dynamics 365 Business Central?
Dynamics 365 Business Central is a modern ERP by Microsoft. It’s cloud-based and made for small to mid-sized businesses. It handles finance, sales, stock, projects, and more in one place. You can use it anywhere, on any device.
Why Choose Dynamics 365 Business Central ERP in 2025?
Built by Microsoft
It works well with other Microsoft tools like Excel, Outlook, and Teams. Your staff won’t need to learn unfamiliar tools.
Cloud-Based
Cloud-based access can make it easy for you to access it anytime, anywhere. A big server setup is not needed.
Always Up to Date
Microsoft keeps improving it with updates, so you never get stuck with an old version.
Easy to Use
Dynamics 365 comes with a user-friendly look and feel. You can search, filter, and move around without help from IT all the time.
Affordable and Scalable
You can start small and add more features or users as you grow.
A Brief Comparison between Baan ERP vs Dynamics 365 Business Central
Feature |
Baan ERP |
Dynamics 365 Business Central |
Age |
Legacy system (from the 90s) |
Modern cloud-based system |
Deployment |
On-premises |
Cloud, with on-premises option |
Updates & Support |
Slower updates |
Regular updates from Microsoft |
Ease of Use |
Can feel outdated |
Easy and modern interface |
Integration |
Limited |
Strong Microsoft and third-party links |
Scalability |
Hard to scale |
Scales as your business grows |
Cost |
High long-term support costs |
Flexible pricing based on needs |
Industry Fit |
Heavy industries, manufacturing |
All industries, especially SMBs |
Integration: Smooth Flow with Microsoft Tools
With Business Central, you don’t need to jump between apps. It connects with:
- Microsoft 365 tools like Excel, Word, and Outlook
- Power BI for reports
- Teams for collaboration
- Power Automate for workflows
- Popular third-party apps like Shopify, PayPal, and more
Baan, on the other hand, often needs custom coding or third-party tools to connect with modern platforms.
Implementation Baan vs Business Central ERP: What’s Easier?
- Baan ERP: Needs heavy setup. Often involves long timelines and skilled consultants.
- Business Central: Fast cloud deployment. Microsoft partners like Dynamics Square UK can set it up quickly. You can also choose a hybrid setup if needed.
Cloud ERP: Why It Matters in 2025
With more remote work, online selling, and global teams, cloud ERP is no longer an option. It’s a must.
Business Central gives:
- Access from anywhere: Your team can work from home, on the road, or at the office — all they need is internet.
- Better security: Microsoft handles your data with top-level protection and backup, so you don’t have to worry.
- Lower IT costs: You won’t need to buy or manage servers. That means fewer bills and less hassle for your IT team.
- Real-time updates: You’ll always be using the latest version. No waiting for big upgrades or dealing with downtime.
Baan ERP, unless fully modernised, often needs on-site hardware and manual updates, which slows things down.
Which One is Right for You?
Choose Baan ERP if:
- You’re already using it, and it still fits your needs
- You’re in a niche manufacturing sector and don’t plan big changes
- You have the team and budget to keep supporting it
Choose Dynamics 365 Business Central if:
- You want a modern, flexible, cloud ERP
- You’re a small or medium business looking to grow
- You want better links with Microsoft tools
- You want regular updates, better support, and simple pricing
Talk to Experts
If you're unsure, talk to a Microsoft partner like Dynamics Square UK. They can help you compare, plan your move, and get started with the right ERP, without worry.
Final Thoughts
After going through insight data on Baan vs Business central the key finding says Baan ERP definitely works well for big and older companies. But after some time, it becomes harder to manage and takes more time and money to maintain.
But if your business is growing and you want to implement something easier and more flexible, definitely Business Central is a better choice. Its simple-to-use interface, automatic updates, and flexibility with existing tools make it top choice for your team.
In Today’s modern world, technology upgrades quickly. Which mandates you to choose a system that has the potential to scale and upgrade. Business Central has it all, and it can also help you save time, reduce mistakes, and help you serve your customers better.
If you're ready to upgrade from Baan to Business Central, reach out to Dynamics Square UK. They’ll help you plan, switch, and start ahead.
Some FAQs of Baan and Business Central ERP
1. Is Baan ERP still supported?
It’s still used, but active development has slowed. Many companies are now moving to more modern systems.
2. Can Business Central handle manufacturing?
Yes, Business Central has features for light manufacturing and works with add-ons for more complex needs.
3. How long does it take to set up Business Central?
Most businesses can set up and run in a few weeks with the help of a Microsoft partner.
4. Can I move from Baan to Business Central?
Yes. A Microsoft partner like Dynamics Square can help with data migration and setup.