5 Top Tips and Productivity Hacks for Microsoft Business Central


Published: 31st May 2024



Microsoft Business Central is a powerful tool for managing your business operations. Here are our 5 top tips and productivity hacks to help you get the most out of this versatile platform.

1. Customise Your Role Centre

Tailor your Role Centre to display the most relevant information for your role. This can significantly improve your efficiency by providing quick access to the data you need. You can edit this dashboard under the settings > personalise, from there you can add charts and lists for quick insights.

2. Utilise Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts can save you a lot of time. Familiarise yourself with common shortcuts like F3 for searching and Ctrl+F3 for advanced filters to navigate Business Central more swiftly. Check out some of our other favourite shortcuts below:

  • Alt + T: Open the actions menu.
  • T: Enter today’s date in a date field.
  • Ctrl + F3: Switch between different filter types in the filter pane.

3. Leverage Power BI Integration

Integrate Power BI with Business Central to create detailed reports and dashboards. This integration allows you to visualise your data more effectively and make informed decisions.

4. Automate Routine Tasks

Use workflows and the Power Automate feature to automate repetitive tasks. This can reduce the time spent on mundane activities and minimise errors.

5. Enable Notifications

Set up notifications for important events, such as when a customer’s balance exceeds their credit limit. This ensures you are always aware of critical changes without constantly monitoring the system. You can enable this feature in the settings, under notifications. Simply check the “Enabled” box to turn on notifications for approval requests and select your notification method and the conditions.

Getting Set up With Dynamics 365 Business Central

Want to find out how to get the most out of Dynamics 365 Business Central? Follow our guide below.

  1. Start with a Clear Plan: Before implementing Business Central, outline your business processes and requirements. A clear plan ensures a smoother implementation and maximises the system’s benefits.
  2. Data Clean-Up: Ensure your data is accurate and clean before migrating to Business Central. This avoids issues later and ensures the reliability of your reports and analytics.
  3. User Access Management: Assign appropriate roles and permissions to users. This prevents unauthorised access and ensures that employees can only access the data relevant to their roles.
  4. Customisation vs Standard Features: Evaluate whether customisation is necessary or if the standard features meet your needs. Over-customisation can lead to complexities and higher maintenance costs.
  5. Leverage Extensions: Use extensions from Microsoft AppSource to enhance Business Central’s capabilities. These pre-built add-ons can save time and provide additional functionality without extensive custom development.
  6. Regular Backups: Schedule regular backups to prevent data loss. Ensure your backup strategy is robust and tested periodically to safeguard your business information.
  7. Monitor System Performance: Keep an eye on system performance and address any issues promptly. Regular monitoring helps maintain efficiency and ensures a seamless user experience.
  8. Continuous Improvement: Encourage feedback from users and continuously improve your Business Central setup. This helps in adapting to changing business needs and maximising the system’s potential.

An ERP system tailored to your business

By following these tips and leveraging the powerful features of Microsoft Business Central, you can optimise your business processes and enhance productivity.