Sage Intacct vs NetSuite Choose the right ERP For Your Business

  • February 20, 2024

If you are looking for a cloud-based accounting software solution for your business, you may have come across two of the most popular options: NetSuite and Sage Intacct. Both offer a range of features and benefits, but they also have some key differences that may affect your decision.

In this blog post, we will compare and contrast NetSuite and Sage Intacct on four main criteria: functionality, integration, pricing, and customer support. We will also help you determine which one is right for your business based on your specific needs and goals.

Overview of Sage Intacct vs NetSuite 

Software-as-a-service (SaaS) deployment models are available for Sage Intacct and NetSuite, both cloud-based ERP systems. The software vendor maintains the software and database in its data center—customers who typically pay a subscription fee access the software via the Internet.

Multitenant cloud suites allow all customers to run the same software version, making updating easier and creating economies of scale. Customers' data is separated at the database level to maintain privacy.

While there are some overlaps between Sage Intacct and NetSuite, their differences can best be summed up by the fact that NetSuite was designed to run an entire business, while Intacct was designed to handle only accounting and finance. Among NetSuite's features are robust customer relationship management (CRM), manufacturing, e-commerce, and human capital management (HCM) modules.

With add-on applications, Intacct fills some of these gaps, but it doesn't offer the same level of functionality as NetSuite. For example, Intacct's sub-ledger architecture inherently limits reporting, and its English-only support and difficulty with currency conversions present challenges for businesses conducting business internationally.

Moreover, NetSuite has a large partner ecosystem and advantages when it comes to implementation services.

With NetSuite, businesses can start with a core financial package and add features as their business grows.

Sage Intacct: The Financial Management Specialist

Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management software that is specifically designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a robust set of financial features, including general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, and more. Sage Intacct is known for its user-friendly interface and ease of customization.

Key Features of Sage Intacct

  • Robust financial management features
  • User-friendly interface
  • Customizable to fit your specific needs
  • Integrates with other business applications
  • Cloud-based deployment model

Benefits of Sage Intacct

  • Improved financial visibility and control
  • Increased efficiency and productivity
  • Reduced costs and improved ROI
  • Ability to scale your business without limitations

NetSuite: The All-in-One ERP Solution

NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP system that offers a comprehensive suite of features, including financial management, customer relationship management (CRM), human resources, and more. It is designed to handle complex business processes and provides a single source of truth for all your data.

Key Features of NetSuite

  • A comprehensive suite of features
  • Powerful customization capabilities
  • Robust reporting and analytics tools
  • Scalable to support growing businesses
  • Cloud-based deployment model

Benefits of NetSuite

  • Improved efficiency through streamlined processes
  • Enhanced visibility and control over your business
  • Increased productivity with real-time data
  • Ability to scale your business without limitations

Key differences between NetSuite and Sage Intacct

Cloud-based accounting software saves money and increases ROI. NetSuite and Sage Intacct both offer low TCO (Total Cost of Ownership) and high ROI (Return on Investment), but NetSuite has a higher average ROI and lower payback period than Sage Intacct, according to a study.

Also, Read -> migrate from Sage 100 ERP to Sage Intacct

Cloud-based accounting software can grow with your business without extra costs or resources. NetSuite and Sage Intacct both offer scalable solutions for different business sizes and industries.

Functionality

NetSuite and Sage Intacct are both cloud-based accounting software solutions that can handle core accounting functions such as general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, cash management, and financial reporting. However, they differ in the scope and depth of their functionality.

NetSuite is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) system that covers not only accounting, but also inventory, order management, project management, human resources, customer relationship management (CRM), and e-commerce. It is designed for businesses that need a full suite of integrated applications to manage their entire operations.

This covers not only financial accounting, but also inventory management, project management, human resources, and customer relationship management. You have the option to customize the number of modules you're using in NetSuite. However, if you're using other programs like Salesforce or HubSpot CRM, you're more likely to become locked into NetSuite and rely on its modules instead.

Table: Comparison of modules in NetSuite and Sage Intacct

Module NetSuite Sage Intacct
General Ledger Yes Yes
Accounts Payable Yes Yes
Accounts Receivable Yes Yes
Cash Management Yes Yes
Financial Reporting Yes Yes
Inventory Yes Additional Module
Order Management Yes Additional Module
Project Management Yes Additional Module
Human Resources Yes Additional Module
Customer Relationship Management Yes No, but Salesforce integration is available.
E-commerce Yes Additional modules and integrations
Multi-entity Consolidation Yes Yes
Revenue Recognition Yes Yes
Budgeting and Forecasting Yes Yes
Financial Analysis Yes Yes

Sage Intacct is a financial management system that focuses on one aspect of business: finance. It is designed for businesses that need a robust and flexible accounting solution that can handle complex financial processes, such as multi-entity consolidation, revenue recognition, budgeting and forecasting, and financial analysis. It also integrates with other best-in-class applications to provide a complete solution for specific industries and functions.

The main difference between NetSuite and Sage Intacct is that NetSuite offers advanced ERP features that many businesses may not require, while Sage Intacct offers financial management features that focus on one aspect of business, which is finance. Depending on your business size, industry, and goals, you may prefer one over the other.

Key Features of Sage Intacct

  • Robust financial management features
  • User-friendly interface
  • Customizable to fit your specific needs
  • Integrates with other business applications
  • Cloud-based deployment model

Benefits of Sage Intacct

  • Improved financial visibility and control
  • Increased efficiency and productivity
  • Reduced costs and improved ROI
  • Ability to scale your business without limitations

Integration

Another difference between NetSuite and Sage Intacct is their approach to integration. NetSuite is a closed system that locks you in their ERP, meaning that you have to use their applications for all your business functions. Sage Intacct is an open system that gives you the flexibility to choose the best applications for your specific needs and integrate them seamlessly.

Sage Intacct Integrations

Sage Intacct has a native integration platform called Sage Intacct Marketplace that allows you to access hundreds of pre-built integrations with leading applications, such as Salesforce for CRM, Expensify for expense management, and Adaptive Insights for business planning. You can also use their open API to create custom integrations with any application you want. Sage Intacct does not try to be a Swiss army knife, but rather a best-of-breed solution that works well with others.

The main difference between NetSuite and Sage Intacct is that NetSuite locks you in their ERP, so you end up using everything by them, while Sage Intacct gives you the flexibility to choose the best applications for your business and integrate them easily.

NetSuite Integrations

NetSuite has a built-in integration platform called SuiteCloud that allows you to connect with third-party applications, but it is limited and costly. You have to pay extra fees for each integration, and you may face compatibility and performance issues. NetSuite also tends to acquire and rebrand other applications, such as Bronto for email marketing and SuiteCommerce for e-commerce, which may force you to switch from your preferred vendors.

Pricing

NetSuite and Sage Intacct both use a subscription-based pricing model that depends on the number of users, modules, and features you need. However, they have separate ways of calculating and disclosing their prices.

When comparing Sage Intacct and NetSuite for ERP solutions, NetSuite does not provide transparent pricing on its website, while Sage Intacct offers four subscription plans with published prices. NetSuite's prices are estimated to range from $999 to $9,999 per month for the base license, plus additional fees for users and modules. On the other hand, Sage Intacct's Essentials plan starts at $400 per month for core accounting features, with additional user fees. Advanced, Professional, and Custom plans are also available with varying prices based on business needs.

Note: The pricing may change in the future. You must confirm the pricing by connecting with the service providers directly, as they’ll offer you a custom quote based on the modules that you require.

The main difference between NetSuite and Sage Intacct is that NetSuite has a hidden and complex pricing structure that may surprise you with hidden costs, while Sage Intacct has a transparent and flexible pricing structure that lets you pay for what you need.

Note: For both of these apps it is generally better to get in touch with a sales team of the service provider to figure out the total cost of licensing the app as well as implementing it in your business. Or you can go with certified consultants who can help you figure this out and understand the key requirements of your business.

Security

In terms of security, both of these services ensure that your data is protected using state-of-the-art encryption techniques. As these apps are tailor-made for mid-tier enterprises, the level of security is both reliable and reassuring for business leaders. you need to note that you cannot download apps and host any of these programs on your local server or hardware so you have to rely on the security provided by the service provider be it Sage or Oracle.

Conclusion

NetSuite and Sage Intacct are both cloud-based accounting software solutions that offer a range of features and benefits. However, they also have some key differences that may affect your decision.

NetSuite is a comprehensive ERP system that covers all aspects of business, but it may be too complex and costly for some businesses. Sage Intacct is a financial management system that focuses on one aspect of business, but it may be too limited and specialized for some businesses.

The best way to choose between NetSuite and Sage Intacct is to evaluate your business needs and goals and compare the functionality, integration, pricing, and customer support of each solution. You can also request a demo, a free trial, or a consultation from each vendor to see how they work for your business.

We hope this blog post has helped you understand the differences between NetSuite and Sage Intacct, and how to choose the best one for your business. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact us.

Key Points

  • NetSuite and Sage Intacct overview: NetSuite and Sage Intacct are both cloud-based accounting software solutions that can handle core accounting functions.
  • Functionality difference: NetSuite is a comprehensive ERP system that covers all aspects of business, while Sage Intacct is a financial management system that focuses on one aspect of business: finance.
  • Integration difference: NetSuite is good for businesses that want to use all the modules available in the ERP. But if you want a solution focused on financial management, then it’s better to go with Sage Intacct.
  • Pricing difference: Both NetSuite and Sage Intacct are expensive options. The implementation, integration, and training costs are substantial for both solutions.

FAQs

Q. What are the main benefits of using NetSuite?

A. NetSuite is a good option for businesses that want a single, integrated system that can manage all their business processes, from accounting to CRM to e-commerce. NetSuite offers a unified view of your data, real-time visibility into your performance, and scalability as your business grows.

Q. What are the main drawbacks of using NetSuite?

A. NetSuite is a costly and rigid system that may not suit your specific needs or preferences. NetSuite has a high total cost of ownership, as you have to pay for licenses, maintenance, implementation, training, and customization. NetSuite also limits your ability to integrate with other applications, as you have to use their proprietary tools and connectors.

Q. What are the main benefits of using Sage Intacct?

A. Sage Intacct is a good option for businesses that want a powerful and flexible financial management system that can automate and streamline their accounting processes. Sage Intacct offers a modular approach, allowing you to choose the features and functionalities that you need. Sage Intacct also integrates easily with other applications, giving you the freedom to customize your solution.

Q. What are the main drawbacks of using Sage Intacct?

A. Sage Intacct is a specialized system that may not cover all your business needs, especially if you require advanced features such as inventory management, project management, or manufacturing. Sage Intacct may also require additional investment in integration, as you have to connect with other applications to create a complete ERP solution.

Q. How easy is it to switch from NetSuite to Sage Intacct, or vice versa?

A. Switching from one accounting software to another can be challenging, as you have to migrate your data, configure your settings, train your users, and ensure compliance. However, switching from NetSuite to Sage Intacct may be easier than switching from Sage Intacct to NetSuite, as Sage Intacct has more flexibility and compatibility with other systems. You can also leverage the expertise and support of Sage Intacct's partners and consultants to help you with the transition.

Q. How long does it take to implement NetSuite or Sage Intacct?

A: The implementation time for any accounting software depends on various factors, such as the size and complexity of your business, the scope and customization of your project, and the availability and involvement of your team. Generally speaking, NetSuite takes longer to implement than Sage Intacct, as NetSuite requires more configuration and testing to fit your business. According to a 2019 report by Nucleus Research, the average implementation time for NetSuite is 10.6 months, while the average implementation time for Sage Intacct is 3.6 months.

Q. How secure are NetSuite and Sage Intacct?

A: Both NetSuite and Sage Intacct are cloud-based solutions that use industry-standard security measures to protect your data and transactions. They both comply with various regulations and standards, such as PCI DSS, SOC 1, SOC 2, GDPR, and HIPAA. They both also offer backup> and recovery options, as well as disaster recovery plans. However, Sage Intacct has an edge over NetSuite in terms of security, as Sage Intacct has more certifications and accreditations, such as ISO 27001, FedRAMP, and HITRUST.

Q. How do NetSuite and Sage Intacct compare in terms of customer satisfaction and support?

A. According to the 2020 G2 Grid Report for Accounting Software, Sage Intacct has higher ratings than NetSuite in terms of customer satisfaction and support. Sage Intacct scored 4.4 out of 5 stars, while NetSuite scored 3.7 out of 5 stars.

Q. Can I migrate data from NetSuite to Sage Intacct?

A. Yes, you can. However, the migration process can take a long time because NetSuite has multiple modules that aren't compatible with those of Sage intact. You'll also have to consider the total cost of the migration process because based on the amount of data that you want to migrate the cost will keep going up. It is generally better to just migrate the essential data and the account balances and customer and vendor balances and then get started in your new accounting software.

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