Project Overview
World Animal Protection, an international charity operating across 14 global offices, relied on a Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2015 system hosted on a physical server in London, with global users accessing it via Citrix. With the need to renew its Citrix environment and avoid further investment in on-premise infrastructure, the organisation wanted to move to a cloud-based solution aligned to its cloud-first strategy — without disrupting existing finance operations.
Transparity delivered a phased migration from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to Dynamics 365 Business Central in the cloud, preserving all existing functionality and transferring Prophix reporting and historic data. The project was delivered on time and within budget, giving World Animal Protection a secure, accessible and future-ready platform across all its locations.
The Challenge
World Animal Protection relied on a Microsoft Dynamics NAV 2015 system hosted on a physical server in London. Global users accessed the system via Citrix, which created inefficiencies and a complex user experience.
With the need to renew its Citrix environment and avoid further investment in on-premise infrastructure, the organisation wanted to move to a cloud-based solution aligned to its cloud-first strategy.
The finance team was satisfied with existing functionality and required a low-risk, like-for-like transition that would maintain current capabilities without disrupting operations across international offices.
“We were looking for a better value solution that aligned with our cloud-first strategy, while ensuring there was no disruption to the way our teams work across different countries.” — Kate Brown, Systems Project Manager, World Animal Protection
The Solution
World Animal Protection selected Transparity to deliver a migration from Microsoft Dynamics NAV to Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central in the cloud.
The project focused on preserving existing functionality while enabling improved access and performance. Transparity worked closely with the organisation to design a migration approach that included transferring Prophix reporting and historic data.
A phased rollout was implemented, starting with the UK office followed by international locations on a weekly basis. Transparity provided guidance and support throughout, while enabling the internal team to take ownership of certain tasks such as migrating opening balances.
“We were confident Transparity had the experience to deliver exactly what we needed. Their flexibility and proactive approach meant we could adapt the project as it progressed.” — Kate Brown, Systems Project Manager, World Animal Protection
The migration was delivered smoothly, supported by strong planning, collaboration and clear communication between teams.
The Outcome
World Animal Protection now operates a fully cloud-based finance system, providing secure and efficient access for users across all locations.
The move has removed the need for Citrix and simplified system access, improving user experience and reducing complexity. Performance has improved, and users can more easily export and work with data.
The organisation has also eliminated the need for manual backups and large upgrade projects. Instead, the system benefits from regular incremental updates that are easier to manage and incur no additional cost.
“We’re very pleased that we’ve been able to deliver all the same functionality as before with no issues. At the same time, we now have a platform that gives us a strong foundation for future improvements.” — Kate Brown, Systems Project Manager, World Animal Protection
Benefits
Improved user experience: Cloud access removes reliance on Citrix, simplifying login and improving usability across global teams.
Reduced IT overhead: No need for physical infrastructure, backups or major upgrade projects, lowering costs and complexity.
Seamless migration: The organisation retained all existing functionality with no disruption to operations.
Better performance and accessibility: Users benefit from faster system performance and easier data access from any location.
Future-ready platform: The cloud-based solution provides a scalable foundation for innovation and future enhancements.
