Acumatica Cloud ERP vs QuickBooks
Why do companies looking for alternatives to QuickBooks choose Acumatica?
QuickBooks and other entry-level accounting systems are very popular among small, growing businesses. This is no surprise since they’re economical and easy to use.
However, many small businesses soon find that the accounting software they used to start their business is now holding them back. Not sure you’re ready to take the leap and replace QuickBooks? Keep reading!
First, let’s set the stage with a simple explanation of ERP systems and how they differ from accounting software.
ERP, or enterprise resource planning, is a software solution that combines all facets of a company. Sales leads, inventory, and financial projections are all integrated, providing a comprehensive overview of the business. In addition, it diminishes the likelihood of errors, miscommunication, and duplication. The #1 factor leading companies to outgrow QuickBooks is the need to coordinate various components of the business.
Our tips for researching alternatives to QuickBooks cover the warning signs you should be on the lookout for. Are you already familiar with those? Let’s use them to explore how Acumatica stacks up against QuickBooks.
1. How easy is the system to learn and use?
Small business owners know user adoption is key to the success of any implementation project. But if software frustrates or intimidates users, they won’t use it. And when that happens, your business can never fully realize the benefits the system offers.
That said, user adoption is one area in which Acumatica really shines. Because it’s completely browser-based, Acumatica is extremely easy to learn and use. If you know how to use a web browser, you can use Acumatica.
There’s no additional software to master, so training time is minimal. Watch this quick user interface demo to see Acumatica in action.
2. Does this solution support different work styles?
Again, because Acumatica is completely browser-based, you can use it on virtually any device, anywhere you have an Internet connection. The system automatically adjusts itself to different screen sizes. So, Acumatica goes where you go. The same user-friendly experience is available on desktop, tablet, or phone, thanks to its mobile apps.
3. Does the vendor offer deployment options and pricing plans to fit my needs?
Another area where Acumatica shines among other alternatives to QuickBooks is the fact that it gives users so many deployment options.
With Acumatica, you can buy a software license and deploy it on your own servers in-house. Or you can purchase a public, cloud-based version as software as a service (SaaS). And, if your needs change down the road, you can always adjust your deployment model. Acumatica never locks customers into a single deployment method.
4. What kind of after sales support does the vendor offer?
Acumatica receives regular updates. These bring users additional functionality and allow them to capitalize on the latest advancements in web technology.
In addition, like most ERP software, you buy Acumatica through a network of partners like Intelligent Technologies, Inc. When you choose to work with us, our friendly team of experts will walk you through the entire process. From software selection to implementation, training, and support, you’ll have our team of experts there to lead the way. Find out more about what sets Intelligent Technologies apart from other Acumatica partners.
5. Does the vendor understand the customer support needs of small to medium-sized businesses?
At Intelligent Technologies, Inc., we have over 30 years’ experience working with clients in a wide variety of industries. These include pharmaceutical/medical technology, professional services, hotel and restaurant, and manufacturing. Explore our industry expertise.
Additional reasons why businesses like yours choose Acumatica when they’re looking for alternatives to QuickBooks
Cloud-Based
QuickBooks offers an option they refer to as cloud based. But the software is not native to the cloud. Instead, the cloud offering is really QuickBooks desktop hosted on a server the client does not own or manage.
Acumatica was built from the ground up in the cloud. So, all you need to access it is a web browser. So, checking data from your computer or your phone while on the go is simple. No additional apps or subscriptions needed.
Enterprise Resource Planning Functionality
Over the years, QuickBooks has developed to include some basic ERP -like features. But ultimately the product’s focus remains on accounting.
When you move outside the walls of the accounting department, Acumatica has much more to offer. Each of its available modules connects with one another to help you run your entire business. So, it breaks down walls between departments, rather than being limited to your back office.
Business Processes Automation
Acumatica eliminates error prone duplicate data entry and other manual processes. Simplify accounting functions like purchase order approvals, sales quote approvals, time tracking and expense report submissions.
Real-Time Reporting
Acumatica’s browser-based and available anytime, anywhere. It delivers crucial accounting features like real-time reporting to users exactly when they need it, regardless of where they are. With its flexible chart of accounts, you can see reports by product, office, or department.
Global Business Support
Acumatica offers a single integrated system to manage multiple currencies, languages, and entities with ease. With it, you can perform currency translations and consolidations across product lines and offices.
Comprehensive Audit Trail
Acumatica makes it simple to understand the who, when and where around each transaction’s entry and approval. Achieving your financial reporting and compliance goals has never been easier.
Integration with Other Key Systems
With Acumatica, enjoy a complete set of accounting, purchasing, inventory management and CRM capabilities. Plus, it offers additional tools for importing or exporting data. And make integration with external tools, like tax or payroll services simple, thanks to a robust API.
Flexible Licensing Options
When buying QuickBooks, you have very few options to choose from. Acumatica offers both monthly and upfront pricing. So, whether you prefer an ongoing operational expense or a depreciable capital one, Acumatica fits your budget.
Relational Database Export
QuickBooks uses a one-of-a-kind database. So, users can’t export data to another system without a third-party tool. This can be a major roadblock to users who wish to analyze their data in Excel or in another reporting program.
Acumatica uses SQL, which is the most commonly used relational database. So, users enjoy much greater flexibility in working with their data. They can run reports in the tool of their choice, build custom applications and much more.
Unlimited Growth
As your business expands, QuickBooks could become slower because of multiple users trying to access the files simultaneously. This can often be one of the first and strongest indicators that it’s time to make a change.
One thing former QuickBooks Enterprise users love most about Acumatica is that it does not charge them per user. Instead, your price is based on the amount of computing resources your business uses. That way, you can include everyone as your business grows without incurring exorbitant price increases. Additionally, you can control who has access to information with simple role-based security settings.
The Verdict in the Acumatica vs. QuickBooks Debate
For many small businesses, QuickBooks offers a good jumping-off point. But as your business grows, you may find it lacks staying power. Check out the chart below to compare these two popular systems in greater detail. And find out if Acumatica is the right choice for you to pick up where QuickBooks leaves off.
Fully available
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Acumatica |
QuickBooks |
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| True cloud-based ERP | ||
| Platform adaptability – Open APIs, low code/no code customization | ||
| Native mobility | ||
| Embedded CRM | ||
| Industry specific functionality | ||
| Forged alliances with ISVs for rapid, specialized integrations | ||
| Customer Bill of Rights (e.g., dual layers of support, unlimited users, etc.) | ||
| Data access (easy access to your data—YOU own your data) | ||
| Flexible deployment options (public cloud, private cloud, and hybrid) |
Want to Learn More About Acumatica?
As a leading Acumatica Partner, Intelligent Technologies can help you work the way you want, grow without worry, reduce spending, and improve business performance with Acumatica. Simply fill out the form to register for your custom demo or to request more information.
