Taking time to learn Microsoft Dynamics GP can be a game-changer. Microsoft Dynamics GP, originally known as Great Plains, is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) tool that offers a wealth of features specifically designed for finance roles.
With capabilities ranging from financial management and accounting to inventory management and operations, learning Dynamics GP equips you with the skills to streamline business processes, increase productivity, and ultimately boost your company’s bottom line.
In this blog, we’ll guide you through understanding and mastering Microsoft Dynamics GP. We’ll explore the variety of training resources available to you.
Let’s get started!
Assess Your Learning Goals
Learning Microsoft Dynamics GP is much easier, with a clear roadmap to help guide you. The first step on this roadmap is to assess your learning goals.
Determining Personal Learning Goals
Each finance role demands different levels of expertise in Microsoft Dynamics GP. Some roles might need a comprehensive understanding of the system, while others might require a focus on specific modules.
Start by identifying what you hope to achieve by learning Dynamics GP. Do you want to use it to streamline your daily accounting tasks? Or do you aim to manage complex business processes across various departments? Setting clear, attainable goals is the foundation of your learning journey.
Identifying Specific Skills Based on Job Function
Your position within your organization will largely determine which Dynamics GP functionalities you need to learn.
For instance, if you work in accounts payable, you might need to focus on vendor management and invoice processing modules. A finance manager would need a more holistic understanding, including areas such as financial forecasting and analytics.
Using Available Resources for Personalized Learning
Microsoft Dynamics GP has a vast range of features, and not all of them will apply to your role. Once you’ve identified your learning goals and the skills you need, you can tailor your training program accordingly.
Luckily, there’s an abundance of resources available to help you do this, from official Microsoft Dynamics GP training courses to forums, blogs, and user groups. These resources can be tailored to suit your specific learning goals, ensuring you focus your energy on the areas that will benefit you the most.
The Power of Microsoft Dynamics GP Training Resources
Once you’ve identified your learning goals, it’s time to dive into the wealth of training resources Microsoft provides to help you become proficient in Dynamics GP.
Official Microsoft Dynamics GP Training Resources
Microsoft offers a suite of comprehensive training resources designed to cover every aspect of Dynamics GP. These resources are a treasure trove of information designed to cater to different learning styles and proficiency levels.
To get started, explore the Dynamics GP resources page. Here, you’ll find detailed guides and documentation on various Dynamics GP features. Additionally, the Dynamics GP community is a bustling forum where you can ask questions, share experiences, and learn from other Dynamics GP users.
The very people who developed Dynamics designed these official resources GP. This means they provide accurate, up-to-date information that aligns with best practices.
The Importance of Custom Training from Your GP Partner
While Microsoft’s official resources provide a solid foundation, there’s nothing quite like receiving training tailored to your specific needs. This is where custom training from your GP partner comes into play.
Understanding Custom Training
Custom training is a personalized training program designed to align with your unique learning goals and job function. It offers the opportunity to delve deeper into the specific features and functionalities of Dynamics GP that are most relevant to you. This kind of training usually involves one-on-one sessions, workshops, or small group training, often led by experienced Microsoft Dynamics GP professionals.
Benefits of Custom Training
The primary benefit of custom training is its relevance. It’s designed around your needs, ensuring you spend time learning the aspects of Dynamics GP that are most important for your role. Moreover, custom training often includes real-world examples and scenarios, which can make it easier to understand how to apply what you’re learning in your daily tasks.
Identifying Who Might Need Custom Training
Custom training is particularly beneficial if you have specific, unique, or complex Dynamics GP needs. If your role involves complex business processes or if your organization uses Dynamics GP in a unique way, custom training can help you understand how to leverage the system most effectively.
Getting Custom Training
Your GP partner can provide custom training—they’re experts in the system and can offer a wealth of experience and knowledge. A partner or consultant can guide you through the process, answer your questions, and provide hands-on training to ensure you’re comfortable with Dynamics GP.
Tips for Making the Most of Custom Training
To maximize the benefits of custom training, come prepared with a list of questions or areas you’re struggling with. Don’t be afraid to ask for demonstrations or additional explanations on how to perform specific tasks. Remember, this is your training, so make sure it meets your needs.
Embracing Additional Opportunities to Learn Microsoft Dynamics GP
Your journey to learn Microsoft Dynamics GP doesn’t stop at official resources and custom training. The world of Dynamics GP is vast and ever-evolving, and embracing additional learning opportunities can help you stay ahead and truly master this powerful tool.
Online Forums, Blogs, and User Groups
The online community of Microsoft Dynamics GP users is an invaluable resource. Online forums, blogs, and user groups offer the chance to engage with other users, ask questions, share experiences, and learn from the collective wisdom of the community. These platforms often discuss real-world problems and solutions, providing practical insights that can complement your formal training.
Conferences and Networking
Attending industry conferences and events can be a great way to deepen your Dynamics GP knowledge. These events often feature sessions led by Dynamics GP experts, where they share the latest features, best practices, and tips. Networking at these events also provides the chance to connect with other Dynamics GP users, learn from their experiences, and even form beneficial professional relationships.
Staying Up-To-Date
As with any software, Dynamics GP is regularly updated with new features and improvements. Keeping up with these updates is crucial to ensure you’re maximizing the system’s capabilities. Follow Microsoft’s official channels, subscribe to relevant newsletters, or join Dynamics GP groups on social media to stay informed about the latest developments.
The Value of Continuous Learning
Remember, learning Dynamics GP is not a one-time event but a continuous process. As you grow in your role and as the software develops, there will always be new things to learn. Embrace this journey of continuous learning, and you’ll become a true Dynamics GP expert.
Practice, Practice, Practice
As the adage goes, “Practice makes perfect.” The same holds true when learning Microsoft Dynamics GP. No amount of theoretical knowledge can replace the value of hands-on experience. Practicing the skills you’ve learned is vital to truly mastering Dynamics GP.
Understanding the features and functionalities of Dynamics GP is one thing, but using them in real-world scenarios is another. Hands-on experience allows you to apply what you’ve learned, cementing your knowledge, and boosting your confidence. Plus, it gives you a better understanding of how Dynamics GP can streamline your specific business processes.
When you practice, try to mimic your real-world tasks as much as possible. This helps you understand how the features you’re learning apply directly to your role. For instance, if you’re learning about the accounts payable module, try entering a mock invoice and processing a payment.
As you become comfortable with different Dynamics GP features, start incorporating them into your daily work. This not only gives you more practice but also helps you reap the benefits of Dynamics GP sooner.
Elevate Your Dynamics GP Expertise
Taking time to learn Microsoft Dynamics GP is an investment in your professional growth and your organization’s success. Following the guidance we’ve provided will help you become proficient in this powerful tool.
Remember, the journey to mastery is continuous, and it’s crucial to stay up to date with the latest developments, keep practicing, and always be open to learning new things.
As you continue learning, know that expert help is just a click away. Our team at Intelligent Technologies, Inc is here to support you in achieving your learning goals and maximizing the potential of Microsoft Dynamics GP. Get in touch with our experienced professionals and take your Dynamics GP skills to new heights.
