Why Implementation Timelines Vary
Here’s what really drives the difference between a 3-month project and a 12-month one:
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Number of users: More users = more roles, permissions, and training.
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Modules selected: Financials only is faster. Add manufacturing, distribution, or service management, and timelines grow.
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Data migration: Clean, structured data speeds things up. Messy, outdated data adds weeks or months.
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Integrations: Connecting to CRM, ecommerce, payroll, or EDI systems increases complexity.
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Internal resources: A dedicated internal project lead often cuts weeks off the timeline.
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Decision speed: Fast, empowered decision-making keeps momentum. Endless committee debates slow everything down.
Original Analysis: Why SMBs Underestimate Timelines
In our research across SMB clients, about 62% initially expect to go live in under three months , but fewer than 20% actually do.
Why the gap? Because many underestimate the “hidden” tasks:
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Data cleanup takes longer than expected.
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Employees need more training than planned.
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Scope creep sneaks in (new reports, new processes).
This is why we always advise: budget for the longer end of the range, celebrate if you finish early.
Average Timelines by Company Size (With Examples)
Small Business (Under 25 Users) — 2 to 3 Months
These projects are the fastest. Most small businesses move from QuickBooks or Sage into Business Central with a lean setup.
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Scope: Financials, light inventory.
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Example: A 15-user distributor implemented Business Central in 10 weeks. They had clean data and a dedicated project champion, which made all the difference.
Mid-Size (25–100 Users) — 3 to 6 Months
This is the most common range. Multiple departments are involved, which means more testing, training, and data migration.
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Scope: Financials, distribution, light manufacturing.
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Example: A 60-user manufacturer took 5 months to go live. Training needed to be staggered so production wasn’t disrupted.
Larger SMB (100–250 Users) — 6 to 9 Months
At this size, you often have multiple entities or complex requirements. Testing cycles take longer and integrations are usually needed.
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Scope: Financials, manufacturing, warehouse, multi-entity.
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Example: A 120-user company took 8 months because they needed integrations with Salesforce and a third-party payroll system.
Complex SMBs (250+ Users, Multi-Entity) — 9 to 12+ Months
Large SMBs with subsidiaries, advanced manufacturing, or global operations fall here. Implementation may be phased, with finance going live first, then operations.
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Example: A 300-user distributor planned a 14-month rollout, with wave one covering finance and wave two covering supply chain and manufacturing.
How to Speed Up a Business Central Implementation
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Clean your data early. Do not wait until the last minute.
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Dedicate an internal champion. Someone needs to own the project.
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Limit scope creep. Stick to core requirements for go-live. Add “nice-to-haves” later.
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Choose the right partner. Experience matters. A partner that knows your industry can shave months off the timeline.
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Engage employees. Training and buy-in are as important as software.
Pros and Cons of a Faster vs. Longer Timeline
| Approach | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Faster (2–3 months) | Quicker ROI, less disruption | Higher stress, risk of missed requirements |
| Moderate (3–6 months) | Balance of speed and thoroughness | Requires steady focus from internal team |
| Longer (6–12 months) | More training, less disruption, more robust rollout | Higher cost, project fatigue |
Conclusion
So, how long does it take to implement Business Central? The answer depends on your size, scope, and resources , but for most SMBs, you’re looking at 3–9 months.
The biggest mistake we see is businesses underestimating timelines and overpromising internally. A realistic plan that matches your company size will help you set the right expectations, keep your team motivated, and actually get live successfully.
