Whether you’re troubleshooting issues on the go, checking inventory from the warehouse floor, or reviewing key financials between client meetings, having access to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central on your mobile device is a game-changer.
Let’s explore the most practical and powerful ways to use Business Central on mobile, grounded in real-world scenarios, internal documentation, and Microsoft’s official guidance. If you’re a Senior Consultant looking to streamline operations, increase responsiveness, and support clients with greater agility, this tailored overview is for you.
1. Real-Time Operational Access
Stay connected to your business in the field or on the road. With Business Central’s mobile capabilities, you can interact with live data instantly and keep critical workflows moving without delay.
- Access financials, inventory, sales, and customer records in real time
- Monitor live KPIs and dashboards to make fast, data-driven decisions
- Create and send quotes or invoices on the go to speed up sales cycles
- Attach photos to records instantly to document damage or confirm deliveries
This level of access is especially valuable for field consultants, warehouse teams, and sales professionals who rely on up-to-the-minute information to stay productive and responsive outside the office.
2. Mobile-Optimized Warehouse Management
For teams managing inventory and logistics, the WMS Express app offers a modern, mobile-first approach to warehouse operations, fully integrated with Business Central. It transforms traditional processes by replacing manual, paper-based systems with a streamlined digital solution.
- Scan barcodes for fast, accurate item tracking—no more error-prone paperwork
- Get real-time inventory updates to maintain accuracy and speed up fulfillment
- Manage tasks on mobile to streamline picks, put-aways, and transfers on the go
Designed to work with affordable, widely available hardware and requiring minimal setup, WMS Express is a cost-effective way to modernize your warehouse, improve operational visibility, and reduce manual errors.
3. Manufacturing & Shop Floor Integration
Mobility and automation are essential for staying efficient and competitive in manufacturing. With Business Central and its integration capabilities—highlighted in Business Central Webinars: Order Fulfillment, Production Scheduling, and Manufacturing Execution System (MES)—mobile devices are critical in bringing real-time visibility to the shop floor.
- Track time and attendance via barcode scans to cut manual entry and improve workforce oversight
- Integrate with MES for live production updates, keeping teams aligned and responsive to issues
This functionality empowers plant managers, operators, and production supervisors to monitor operations, track progress, and stay connected to Business Central without being tied to a desk.
4. Point-of-Sale (POS) & Retail Applications
In retail and trade desk environments, speed and flexibility at the POS are critical. The Counter Sales app—featured in the Business Central Partner Update from Insight Works: November 2024—brings mobile POS functionality directly into the Business Central ecosystem.
- Process purchases from anywhere on the sales floor or at a service counter
- Manage gift cards and payment reconciliation for smooth promotions and reporting
- Handle returns and post sales easily to boost service and reduce back-office tasks
This mobile solution is ideal for businesses that need to serve customers quickly and efficiently, without the constraints of fixed terminals or complex setups.
5. Licensing & Access Flexibility
Keeping cross-functional teams informed doesn’t have to mean expanding your software budget. Not every user needs full access to Business Central—some just need to view data or perform a few light tasks. For those users, Microsoft offers affordable licenses that provide partial access based on need. According to the Dynamics 365 Licensing Guide, here are two key options:
- Business Central Team Members License: Ideal for users who only need limited access, such as viewing data, looking up records, or performing basic functions within Business Central.
- Team Members License: Designed for users who work across departments (e.g., project managers or support staff). This license allows read-only access across Dynamics 365, plus the ability to perform basic tasks like submitting expenses or updating contact records.
These licenses extend Business Central access without inflating costs—perfect for “additional users,” who often make up a large percentage of the total users in an organization.
- Expand visibility across departments so executives, project leads, and support roles stay informed without a full license
- Integrate with Microsoft Teams to surface real-time data where collaboration happens
6. Setup & Compatibility
Getting started with Business Central on mobile is simple and flexible, whether you’re in the cloud or managing an on-premises deployment. Here’s why:
- Easy Installation: The mobile app is available on both the App Store and Google Play for quick setup on iOS or Android devices.
- Flexible Deployment: Supports cloud and on-prem environments so teams can access Business Central however it’s configured.
- Advanced Configuration: Sandbox environments and multi-tenant support are ideal for consultants, partners, and complex operations.
With minimal setup, your team can stay connected to critical tools—anytime, anywhere.
Whether managing operations from the warehouse floor, supporting clients in the field, or making quick decisions between meetings, Business Central’s mobile capabilities help you stay connected, informed, and productive. Ready to empower your team with Business Central on mobile? Reach out to us here to get started.
