Are you wondering what Navision actually is — perhaps because your company still runs on an older system, or because a vendor suddenly talks about Business Central instead? Here is the answer: Navision is the former name of Microsoft's ERP system, known today as Dynamics 365 Business Central. Same core idea, new name — and a far more modern solution in the cloud.
From Navision to Dynamics NAV to Business Central
Navision started as a Danish financial system and later became part of Microsoft. The name has changed several times along the way, which is exactly why many people still use the terms interchangeably:
- Navision — the original name, which many still know and use in everyday speech (Microsoft Navision, Dynamics Navision).
- Dynamics NAV — Microsoft's name for the system through a long series of versions, e.g. NAV 2009, NAV 2016 and onwards.
- Dynamics 365 Business Central — the current name, where the system runs as a modern cloud solution.
In short: whether someone says Microsoft Dynamics Navision, Business Central Navision or simply Navision, it is the same system — just in different generations.
What is the system used for?
Whatever the name, the purpose is the same: to bring your company's key processes together in one place, so you avoid manual workflows and scattered spreadsheets. The system typically covers:
- Finance — bookkeeping, general ledger, VAT and reporting.
- Sales — quotes, orders, invoicing and customer overview.
- Purchasing — vendors, purchase orders and approvals.
- Inventory — stock, locations and movements.
- Projects — resources, hours and project finances.
If you want to see what this looks like in the current solution, read more about Business Central or browse our insights.
The difference between old Dynamics NAV and Business Central Online
The big difference is not just a new name, but how the system is run and updated. The older Dynamics NAV versions were typically installed locally at your own site, with customizations that locked you to one version for many years. Business Central Online runs in the cloud, where Microsoft handles operations and continuous updates.
In practice, that means:
- Automatic updates instead of big, heavy upgrade projects.
- Access from browser and mobile, not just an installed client.
- Easier integration with the rest of the Microsoft stack, such as Power BI and Outlook.
- Apps that extend the system without changing the core — so you stay on the update track.
If you are still on an older version, we have gathered our knowledge about older Dynamics NAV versions, so you can see where your current solution stands.
Considering an upgrade from Navision?
Many come to us from the same starting point: the system works, but it is getting harder to maintain, and you are curious about what a move to Business Central requires. That is a completely natural consideration — and it does not have to be overwhelming.
Start with our walkthrough of upgrading to a new version of Dynamics NAV or Business Central, where we explain the steps and the key decisions along the way. If you want a feel for the economics, our price example for implementing Dynamics 365 Business Central gives a concrete picture.
We help with both old NAV and migration to Business Central
At Vision People we work across the whole span every day — from older Navision and Dynamics NAV versions to the current Business Central Online. Some of you need to keep an older system running reliably a little longer, while others are ready to take the step into the cloud. We help with both.
Our goal is a solution that fits your business — not a standard package you are squeezed into. If you have questions about what your current Navision means for your options going forward, reach out via contact us. We will find the right path together.
