Microsoft adds planning and analytics tools in new Dynamics 365 Finance Premium license

Microsoft announced plans in May 2023 for new extended planning and analytics capabilities (xP&A) in Dynamics 365 Finance, and this week Microsoft VP Georg Glantschnig confirmed they  will reach general availability on December 31, 2023.

xP&A in D365 Finance will be referred to as business performance planning and will have tools for financial planning, budgeting, forecasting, sales and operations planning, workforce planning, and more, according to the company. The planning capabilities work with Power BI and Excel and build on both acquired and licensed IP.

Glantschnig also unveiled a new licensing tier, Dynamics 365 Finance Premium. It will provide users with access to the business performance planning capabilities, along with additional advanced functionality.

“This license will only be needed for roles within the organization that are responsible for creating strategic plans, budgets, reports, and insights,” he wrote.

Due to the timing around the new year, the new D365 Finance Premium SKU is not transactable until January 2, 2024. It will roll out on Microsoft’s website, including pricing information, on January 3, 2024, according to a Microsoft spokesperson.