The year 2026 marks a turning point in which artificial intelligence is no longer an add-on to ERP systems, but an integral part of them. AI is no longer used solely for data analysis—it is increasingly taking an active role in business processes, supporting users in decision-making, automating routine tasks, and reducing work time from hours to minutes.
In this article, we explain the role AI plays in modern ERP systems, the AI-driven capabilities currently available in Dynamics 365 Business Central, and what companies can realistically expect from AI-powered ERP solutions in 2026.
Is artificial intelligence already being used in business in a real way?
Yes—and on a large scale. According to data from the 2024 Work Trend Index Annual Report published by Microsoft, nearly three out of four knowledge workers were already using AI-powered solutions in their daily work. This trend continues to accelerate, as AI delivers measurable operational and organizational benefits.
The most frequently cited effects of using AI at work include:
- the ability to focus on high-value tasks by eliminating routine activities,
- increased productivity and significant time savings,
- greater creativity and better use of employees’ skills,
- improved work comfort thanks to the automation of repetitive processes.
In practice, this means that an ERP system without AI capabilities in 2026 will be an incomplete solution. Why does an ERP system need AI?
Why is AI-powered ERP becoming increasingly important in 2026?
For many years, ERP systems primarily served as central data repositories—organizing information related to finance, sales, inventory, or production, and enabling the recording of business processes. In 2026, this approach is no longer sufficient. Companies expect ERP systems not only to register events, but to actively support the management of the organization.
An ERP system with built-in artificial intelligence addresses these expectations by going beyond data storage. AI in ERP enables:
- real-time data analysis without the need for manual report creation,
- identification of patterns and relationships that are difficult to detect using traditional analysis methods,
- forecasting of events and trends such as demand, cash flow, or the risk of delays,
- suggesting next actions based on the current business context,
- automatic execution of selected operations in the background, without user involvement.
As a result, ERP systems move away from being tools used only for after-the-fact processing. Instead of merely reacting to events, they support decision-making at the moment it matters, and in many areas are capable of operating autonomously.
In 2026, this is particularly important due to the growing complexity of business processes, the shortage of skilled employees, and increasing pressure to improve operational efficiency. AI-powered ERP systems allow teams to work faster and more accurately, relieving them of repetitive tasks and enabling them to focus on activities that deliver higher business value.
That is why ERP systems equipped with artificial intelligence are becoming the new standard, rather than just an innovative add-on.
What does artificial intelligence in ERP systems look like in practice?
At IT Vision, artificial intelligence in ERP systems is not a future concept—it is a practical tool already used by our clients today. We implement and develop a range of AI solutions that support the daily work of ERP users and automate key business processes.
Some of these solutions are ready-made AI tools from Microsoft, available within the Dynamics 365 Business Central ecosystem. These include, among others:
- Payables Agent, which automates processes related to payables and invoice handling,
- Sales Order Agent, which supports sales order processing and accelerates commercial workflows.
At the same time, we develop custom AI-powered applications, designed and implemented individually to meet the real business needs of our clients. An example is an AI application that automates and simplifies meter reading—eliminating manual data entry, reducing the risk of errors, and significantly shortening process execution time.
All of our AI solutions—both those based on Microsoft technologies and fully tailored applications—are deeply integrated with ERP systems. This ensures they genuinely support business operations rather than functioning as separate, disconnected tools.
Our full portfolio of solutions is available in the “Artificial Intelligence and Innovation” section, where we showcase the latest AI applications for business. We invite you to explore the current possibilities of using artificial intelligence in ERP systems.
What AI features do modern ERP systems offer?
Using Dynamics 365 Business Central as an example, four main areas of artificial intelligence usage in modern ERP systems can be identified.
Microsoft Copilot in ERP
Microsoft Copilot is an intelligent AI assistant embedded directly into Business Central. Its role is to support users in their daily work by:
- automating repetitive tasks,
- generating content (e.g. emails, descriptions, reports),
- analyzing data without the need for manual system searches,
- working in the context of real-time ERP data.
Copilot operates without switching between applications and uses live system data, making it a natural part of everyday ERP workflows.
AI Agents (Microsoft Agents)
The next stage in the evolution of AI-powered ERP systems is the use of AI agents—autonomous mechanisms that operate in the background of the system. In Business Central, they can, among other things:
- monitor payment due dates and respond to delays,
- initiate document approval workflows,
- forecast financial results,
- suggest actions based on historical patterns.
In practice, AI agents do not merely react—they anticipate, relieving users from the need for constant manual supervision of processes.
IT Vision AI Virtual Assistant
A proprietary solution developed by IT Vision is an AI virtual assistant designed to address real challenges faced by ERP users. Available 24/7, it:
- guides users step by step through ERP processes,
- provides precise answers based on IT Vision documentation,
- generates instructions in Word format, ready for internal use,
- supports onboarding and everyday team operations.
This is an example of AI tailored to a specific ERP environment—not a generic chatbot, but a practical business tool.
AI Extensions from IT Vision and Its Partners
ERP systems in 2026 function as ecosystems of integrated solutions. IT Vision offers additional AI modules, including:
- sales forecasting and customer behavior prediction,
- cost analysis,
- creation of custom reports,
- integration with OCR systems (e.g. automatic processing of invoices and sales orders).
All of these solutions are directly integrated with Business Central and fully supported by the IT Vision team.
What business benefits does AI bring to an ERP system?
The use of artificial intelligence in ERP systems translates into very tangible business outcomes, including:
- automation of business processes,
- improved forecasting and data analysis,
- anomaly detection and more effective risk management,
- a measurable increase in employee productivity.
In practice, this means a significant reduction in the time required to complete key operations, for example:
- order creation: from 30 minutes to 1 minute,
- custom reports: from 4 hours to just a few minutes,
- subscription-based invoicing: from 2 hours to several minutes,
- invoice processing: from hours to minutes.
These results are what make AI in ERP systems no longer just an “innovation,” but a real source of competitive advantage.
ERP in 2026 – what can companies expect?
The year 2026 is redefining how artificial intelligence is used in business. We are no longer talking about theory or long-term planning. AI is becoming an integral part of ERP systems, delivering real competitive advantage.
In 2026, the following will become standard:
- ERP systems with built-in AI assistants,
- autonomous agents handling selected processes,
- deep integration of AI with operational data,
- stronger security and greater control over how AI is used.
Companies that are already implementing AI-powered ERP solutions today are better prepared for the future of work—where technology actively supports decision-making rather than merely reporting on it.
FAQ – Questions and Answers
Can an ERP system operate without AI in 2026?
Yes, but it will be less efficient. An ERP system without AI does not fully leverage the potential of data and automation.
Which ERP systems offer AI capabilities?
One example is Dynamics 365 Business Central, which offers Copilot, AI agents, and the ability to integrate additional AI solutions. The implementation of this system is handled by IT Vision.
Is AI in ERP systems secure?
Yes. Solutions provided by Microsoft and IT Vision are designed with data security and regulatory compliance in mind.
Does AI in ERP replace employees?
No. AI supports employees by automating routine tasks and allowing them to focus on work that requires expertise, experience, and decision-making.
Where should companies start when implementing AI in ERP?
With an analysis of business processes and the selection of AI functionalities that will deliver the greatest value for a given organization.
Want to implement AI solutions in your company?
At IT Vision, we take a practical approach to AI. Our clients have been using AI tools for several years—solutions tailored to the real needs of their businesses.
If you’re not sure where to start optimizing your operations with AI, get in touch with us. We’ll help you choose the tools that will best improve efficiency in your organization.
Contact us using the form below—let’s talk about your business needs.
IT Vision is an experienced provider of ERP systems, BI solutions, and B2B platforms, operating on the market since 2000. The company has completed over 400 projects worldwide, supporting organizations in their digital transformation. IT Vision’s team of experts combines business and technological knowledge, delivering high-quality implementations based on Microsoft technologies.
