Microsoft launches read-only Teams access to Dynamics 365 Business Central
In the 2022 releases wave 2 of Dynamics 365 Business Central, a new feature was added to allow Microsoft 365 users to access Business Central data through Microsoft Teams without a Business Central full user or team member license. This means that Microsoft Teams users will be able to view Business Central records without having to purchase a license. Additionally, users that have both a Microsoft 365 and Business Central full user license will have access to advanced Business Central functionality from within Teams.
Access key data with your Microsoft 365 license
Microsoft released new functionality that will allow Microsoft Teams users to read Business Central ERP data without needing to purchase a Business Central license. These users will get a read-only view of BC data that has been shared with them by a licensed Business Central user. This means that the Microsoft 365 users who do not have a Business Central license will only be able to read table data and they cannot modify, create, or delete records. Additionally, users will experience a reduced set of features and functions provided by Business Central in Microsoft Teams.
Microsoft 365 users will now be able to read Business Central data through a user interface directly in Microsoft Teams. These users will be able to:
- Access Business Central data embedded in a tab in Teams chat or channels
- Access Business Central cards that have been shared in Teams chat or channels
- Read data they have permission to
- Search, sort, and drilldown on details using simplified UI
Embed Business Central in Teams tabs
In addition to enabling access to BC data from Teams without a license, Microsoft has also implemented enhancements for Teams users who hold a BC license. If a user has both a Microsoft 365 and Business Central license, they will be able to embed Business Central in Teams tabs and share BC data to other Teams users. By embedding Business Central in a tab in any group chat or channel, the team has convenient access to the latest data. This data is also editable and actionable from within Teams, without having to continually switch apps.
Additionally, Business Central users can share compact cards and records to Teams from within the web client. By sharing a compact card instead of just a hyperlink to a record, coworkers are able to gain more context and act faster on business data.
Access important Business Central data from Microsoft Teams
These recent updates make it easier for organizations to share and collaborate on important pieces of data without having to purchase a Business Central license. With these updates, Microsoft wants to make it easier for organizations to share master data with employees who need access, empower departments to access data needed to perform their tasks, improve data security, and empower data-driven decisions across the entire organization. If you are interested in utilizing this new functionality, the right Dynamics 365 Business Central implementation partner can help you set up and configure Business Central access and permissions.
