Business Central Update 26.2 Empowers Users with GP-Like Smart List Analysis

When transitioning from Microsoft Dynamics GP to Business Central, one of the most frequently voiced concerns from seasoned users is the absence of the beloved Smart Lists feature. For years, this functionality has empowered GP users to easily slice and dice data, extract insights, and drive better decision-making without needing technical expertise.

Now, with the Business Central 2025 Release Wave 1, Microsoft is bridging that gap in a way that’s both powerful and familiar.

Key Article Takeaways:

• GP users now have access to smart list-style analysis in Business Central.
• The new update allows users to add fields from related tables while in Analysis Mode.
• This update facilitates the transition for GP businesses that are upgrading to Business Central.
• Highlights include improved analytics and migration ROI opportunities.

The Power of Familiarity – GP Users Get Their Smart List Back

Smart Lists have long been a staple for GP users because of their accessibility and flexibility. Users could quickly generate lists, apply filters, and export to Excel—all without writing a single line of code. Business Central's Analysis Mode has offered some of this power, but the latest update takes it further.

And here’s the exciting part for former GP users: you now have your Smart Lists back—only presently they’re smarter, more integrated, and fully embedded within Business Central’s modern platform.

How Analysis Mode Now Mirrors GP's Smart Lists

Note: This feature supports fields from related one-to-one tables—ideal for data like customer emails, vendor addresses, and contact info.

With the 2025 Wave 1 update, users can now add fields from related tables directly within Analysis Mode. This advancement means users no longer need to create complex extensions or wait on IT support. It empowers finance, sales, and operations professionals to get more granular data insights right inside the application.

This change is a monumental win for those migrating from GP, who have been looking for a comparable tool in Business Central. It’s not just a workaround—it’s an evolution of what made Smart Lists so beloved.

Why This Matters for Transitions from GP to Business Central

For organizations considering or currently undergoing the move from GP to Business Central, this update significantly reduces the learning curve. The ability to interact with data in a smart list-like manner means teams can maintain productivity and familiarity, easing change management.

This release is the kind of upgrade that makes users excited—not hesitant—about moving forward.

What Else is New in Business Central 26.2 Release

The highlight for many is certainly the enhancement to Analysis Mode, but there's even more in this release:

Additional Highlights from 26.2:

• User Experience Improvements: Cleaner layouts, consistent field ordering, and overall UI enhancements.
• Enhanced Document Management: Easier document attachment and previewing options.
• Microsoft 365 Integration: Improved collaboration through deeper connections with Teams and Outlook.
• Performance Enhancements: Backend optimizations for faster performance and better scalability.
• Developer Improvements: More efficient development with expanded AL language features and tooling.

No Customization, No Problem

One of the biggest advantages of this update is that it doesn’t require any development work. Users can begin analyzing extended data sets immediately—no extensions, no customization, just instant productivity.

Add Fields from Related Tables – A Game Changer

This capability enables a new depth of data analysis. By accessing related tables, users can combine financial, sales, and inventory data into one cohesive view without needing to open multiple windows or export to Excel.

Learn more here: Add Fields from Related Tables in Analysis Mode

Enhanced Analytics for Projects and More

This release also includes vertical enhancements tailored for project-based businesses. Updates to project visibility, job planning lines, and reporting deliver more accurate, real-time insights into resource management and profitability.

Explore this update: Enhanced Analytics for Projects

Benefits for Businesses Considering the Switch

Reducing Friction in the Migration Process

Reducing user resistance is key in any ERP transition. By making Business Central more intuitive for GP users, Microsoft is not just improving usability—they’re removing one of the main barriers to adoption.

ROI Considerations and Future Readiness

Tools like the ROI Calculator show the financial upside of switching. Combined with improved usability and advanced analytics, the case for upgrading becomes more compelling than ever.

How to Get Started

This update proves Microsoft is listening to its loyal user base. For GP users making the leap, or businesses considering it, this is the best time to evaluate Business Central.

Are you prepared to experience the advantages firsthand? Contact Western Computer today for a guided walkthrough.