Introduction
Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central SaaS (Software as a Service) offers an advanced, cloud-based ERP solution ideal for small and mid-sized businesses.
While Business Central provides extensive benefits like scalability and flexibility, occasional performance issues can arise, impacting user productivity and operational effectiveness.
This article identifies the top 10 common performance challenges encountered in Business Central SaaS deployments and provides actionable solutions, and practical tips to help users optimise system performance.
1. Slow Page Loading and Navigation
Slow page loading and delayed navigation in Business Central SaaS often result from excessive extensions or complex customisations.
Extensions that are resource heavy or poorly optimised can significantly reduce system responsiveness. Regularly audit your installed extensions, removing any unnecessary apps.
For example, disabling rarely used reporting or analytics extensions can improve page speed considerably.
Utilise page inspection tools to identify specific slow-loading components, and leverage Microsoft’s Application Insights for deep performance diagnostics. You can access Application Insights by logging into your Azure portal (portal.azure.com).
2. Reports and Queries Taking Too Long
Complex reports or queries processing large datasets can cause significant performance bottlenecks, especially during critical operational times like month-end or quarterly reporting.
To improve speed, simplify complex queries by eliminating unnecessary fields or data joins. Apply precise data filters to reduce the scope of queries.
Scheduling large reports for off-peak hours, such as overnight, ensures daily operations are unaffected.
For example, scheduling detailed inventory valuation reports to run after business hours can notably enhance day-to-day system responsiveness.
3. Excessive Data Accumulation
An extensive build-up of transactional data or audit logs can decrease system responsiveness over time. Regularly archive or delete old transactional records in line with your data retention policies.
Using Business Central’s automated archival capabilities, you can maintain essential historical records without negatively impacting performance.
For instance, quarterly archiving of completed sales transactions can significantly reduce data volume and enhance system responsiveness.
Steps to find automated archival settings:
1. Sign into Business Central.
2. Use the Search (magnifying glass icon) in the top-right corner and type:
- Sales & Receivables Setup (for sales documents) OR
- Purchases & Payables Setup (for purchase documents)
3. Open the relevant setup page:
-
For Sales Documents (Orders, Quotes, Invoices):
- Look for the section “Archiving”
- Toggle “Archive Quotes” or “Archive Orders” to enable automatic archiving.
Follow the same process for Purchases & Payables.
4. Inefficient or Poorly Designed Extensions
Custom extensions, if not developed following best practices, can introduce performance issues.
Conduct regular code reviews focusing on performance optimisation techniques recommended by Microsoft, such as avoiding unnecessary loops or excessive database calls.
For instance, streamlining extensions that manage order processing or customer data retrieval can greatly improve system efficiency and response times.
5. High Number of Concurrent Users
Performance can suffer when many users simultaneously access resource intensive functions within Business Central.
Analyse user patterns through telemetry data provided by Microsoft Application Insights. Spread out resource-intensive tasks, such as financial batch processing, to non-peak hours.
Implementing staggered workflows or adjusting user schedules can also balance workloads, ensuring consistent performance even during peak usage periods.
6. Excessive API Calls and Third-Party Integrations
High volumes of API calls and integrations with external applications can degrade the overall performance.
Optimise by batching API requests or scheduling integration tasks to run asynchronously. Regularly review integration efficiency and consider consolidating similar calls.
For example, synchronising CRM data or inventory updates in batch processes rather than real-time requests can substantially improve system responsiveness.
7. Network Latency and Connectivity
Slow or unstable network connections can drastically affect user experience in cloud-based Business Central deployments.
Enhance your network infrastructure by upgrading bandwidth capabilities or employing dedicated business-grade internet connections.
Implementing a virtual private network (VPN) or content delivery networks (CDNs) can further stabilise connections.
Monitoring tools can quickly identify and rectify network-related issues.
For example, businesses with geographically dispersed users often benefit significantly from optimised network solutions.
8. Unoptimised Use of Microsoft Cloud Resources
Poorly managed cloud resources, such as inadequate user license allocation or inefficient Azure Active Directory configurations, can impact performance.
Regularly assess your licensing structure and resource allocation.
Once again, utilise Microsoft Azure monitoring tools to detect and rectify under or over utilisation issues.
For instance, adjusting user licenses based on actual usage patterns helps optimise resource allocation, reducing unnecessary costs and enhancing system performance.
More about Business Central Licenses HERE
9. Misconfigured Cloud Environment Settings
Incorrect configurations, such as inappropriate data retention policies or excessive scheduled background tasks, can negatively impact Business Central performance.
Conduct regular audits of cloud settings and fine-tune parameters like data retention periods and background job frequencies.
For example, modifying nightly batch job scheduling to times of minimal user activity can significantly improve daytime operational responsiveness.
10. Lack of Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Neglecting routine maintenance and performance monitoring allows minor issues to escalate into significant problems. Establish regular system health checks and proactively monitor telemetry data from Business Central SaaS.
Use Microsoft Application Insights for continuous performance monitoring.
Quickly addressing small performance warnings prevents larger disruptions.
For example, regularly reviewing telemetry logs to identify and resolve slow-performing database queries can maintain optimal system performance.
Conclusion
Optimising Business Central SaaS performance involves consistent management, regular monitoring, and proactive troubleshooting.
By addressing these common SaaS-based performance challenges, businesses can achieve smoother, more reliable ERP operations.
Engaging with experienced Business Central consultants and leveraging built-in Microsoft tools ensures sustained peak performance, maximising efficiency, and driving ongoing business growth.
Next Steps:
If you are experiencing performance issues with your Business Central implementation contact us for an assessment of your installation. Enter you details below or call us on +44 (0) 1782 976577