Types of AI You Need to Know

While the term “AI” is broad, understanding its key types can help you identify which ones are most applicable to Dynamics GP and finance teams:

• • Generative AI
    Tools like ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot dominate the conversation. They simulate human-like text generation, enabling tasks like creating product descriptions, writing job postings, or summarizing meetings.
    Real-life Example: ChatGPT can draft an accounting policy or assist in writing client communication letters—saving hours of manual effort.
    
    
  • Machine Learning (ML)
    ML excels at identifying patterns and predicting future outcomes based on past data. It powers tools like Excel’s predictive analytics and inventory forecasting software, helping finance teams plan more strategically.

    Use Case: Analyzing historical sales trends in Dynamics GP to optimize inventory purchasing decisions.

    Robotic Process Automation (RPA)
    RPA automates repetitive, rule-based tasks such as invoice processing or financial reconciliations.
    Example: Automating vendor invoice uploads and approvals through AI-powered AP automation tools.

    Deep Learning
    A subset of ML, deep learning analyzes unstructured data like PDFs, emails, or financial documents.
    Example: Extracting data from vendor invoices and automatically categorizing them in Dynamics GP.

How AI Is Impacting Dynamics GP Users Today

Here’s the big question: What can Dynamics GP users do with AI right now? The good news is that AI isn’t some futuristic concept—it’s already here, embedded in Dynamics GP and the broader Microsoft ecosystem.

Built-in AI Capabilities in Dynamics GP

• • PO Generator
    Dynamics GP’s PO Generator uses historical order data and current inventory levels to suggest optimal purchasing quantities.
    Today, we’d call this AI. Yesterday, we called it an algorithm.
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  • Cash Flow Forecasting

    This tool helps businesses predict cash inflows and outflows based on current and historical data.

    MRP (Material Requirements Planning)
    MRP tools in Dynamics GP assist manufacturers by forecasting production needs based on demand and inventory levels.

    Average Days to Pay
    Dynamics GP calculates average payment times for customers, enabling more accurate cash flow predictions. 

Partner ISV Solutions Adding AI to Dynamics GP

The Dynamics GP ecosystem is packed with Independent Software Vendors (ISVs) delivering cutting-edge AI solutions:

• • Bank Reconciliation Automation:
    Tools like PowerGP Banking can automatically match bank transactions with GP entries.

    
    AP Automation:
    ISVs like PN3 and KwikTag use AI to process and code invoices with minimal manual intervention.

    Inventory Forecasting:
    Solutions like NetStock use predictive analytics to help manage inventory levels efficiently.

    Subledger Reconciliation:
    Reporting Central’s The Closer leverages AI to clean up data discrepancies between the general ledger and subledgers. 

Microsoft Copilot and Power BI

Microsoft’s Copilot technology, integrated with Power BI, enables users to create sophisticated reports using natural language prompts. For example, simply type: “Show me a customer sales report grouped by class comparing year-over-year revenue,” and Copilot will generate the report—no coding required.