GP 2016 Web Client Review

Since the release of GP 2016, there has been renewed hype about the redesigned GP Web Client.  We decided to review the new release so you know what to expect.  Here’s what we found:

The Good

You can forget about workstation installations and the time it takes to configure the application on every single workstation after every patch and upgrade.  The Web Client gives your users the edge to be more productive every second by enabling access to GP from anywhere, anytime, on any workstation.  The Microsoft Dynamics GP Web Client provides access to Microsoft Dynamics GP using various web browsers and mobile devices including IE, Edge, Firefox, Chrome etc..

Organizations who are using the GP Payroll and Project Accounting modules can take advantage of the Web Client so employees can login to view and print paystubs and year-end tax documents by using self-service licenses.  Employees can also enter time and expenses using the same licenses without having to fill out manual timesheets. The GP Web Client offers you efficiency by reducing the time spent on manual processes.

The Bad

The Integration Manager application is not available on the Web Client.  Organizations who are using Integration Manager may choose to go with other 3rd party applications to take care of their integration needs.

Some 3rd Party Apps are also not compatible with the GP Web Client so this might be a concern for organizations that rely on those add-ons.  It’s important to remember that it is possible to use the Web Client in a hybrid environment, so you can keep the full desktop client for those users that require the add-ons and leverage the Web Client for everyone else.

Also keep in mind that your IT department will need to maintain an additional server with IIS to run the Web Client site.

The Ugly

There are security risks to consider as data can be compromised over the web.  Users must adhere to the company security policy, which should include a provision to prevent the download of data from the ERP system on a non-company device.  Organizations should review their security policies before extending this functionality over the web.