Many new and small businesses initially choose QuickBooks to manage their finances because it has a reputation for being easy to use and setup. And, it probably works great for a while, but there often comes a time where QuickBooks is just too simple and can’t keep up with your growing business’s needs. If you’ve reached that point, it’s time to look for your next financial management system.
One popular option is Microsoft’s new Dynamics 365 offering. Just like QuickBooks, it is simple to use and setup. Because it is cloud-based, there is no hardware to buy or maintain. Plus, the software is automatically updated for you regularly by Microsoft.
Now, let’s inspect how these two popular accounting systems compare. For the basis of our discussion, I will use five questions our experts suggest potential clients used to compare their options when they are ready to replace QuickBooks.
QuickBooks Versus Dynamics 365
1. How user-friendly is the system?
If you are familiar with Microsoft’s other popular business management solutions such as Office or Dynamics CRM, you will feel right at home working in Dynamics 365. The learning curve is minimal, so you can get back to focusing on what’s most important.
2. Can the system support different work styles?
Since Dynamics 365 is cloud-based, you can access it anywhere you have an Internet connection, all you need is a browser. And, there are also mobile apps for both phones and tablets. So, you no longer need to be in the office to get work done or access important data.
3. Are there different deployment options to choose from?
With Dynamics 365, the answer to this question depends on which edition of the software you choose. The business edition is only available to be deployed on Microsoft Azure (a public cloud). But, don’t let that scare you. Having a system that’s hosted in the cloud means you no longer must worry about expensive equipment upkeep or time-consuming updates. And, the system is available anytime, anywhere you have an Internet connection.
If security is a concern, keep in mind that Microsoft constantly invests a lot of resources and effort into making sure that Azure delivers reliable and secure service. Public clouds from large providers like Microsoft are usually much more secure than anything a small or medium-sized business could set up on their own.
However, if you are in a highly regulated industry where you cannot put your data on the public cloud, or you don’t want to, that is fine. The enterprise edition of Dynamics 365 allows users to deploy the system through hosting provider, using a hybrid setup or on premise (your own server).
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4. What after sales support does the vendor offer?
Microsoft is continually updating Dynamics 365, adding new features to help you do more. Furthermore, it is backed by a worldwide network of partners like Intelligent Technologies. When you choose to your Dynamics 365 provider, our friendly team of experts will be there for you throughout the entire process of replacing your QuickBooks accounting system, from software selection, all the way to replace implementation, training and support. Anytime you have a question about or issue with your Dynamics 365 software, we will be your first phone call. No more calling a busy one 800 number, hoping to get connected to the right person or submitting an email support tickets and waiting days for a response.
5. Does the vendor understand the needs of SMB’s?
Dynamics 365, especially the business edition is built with the needs of small businesses in mind. Additionally, we at Intelligent Technologies has over 25 years’ experience working with small and medium-size businesses in many industries, such as hospitality, professional services and distribution to name a few. By now, there isn’t much we haven’t seen or done when it comes to business software implementation. So, if you have unique needs that require any customization, our seasoned experts have what it takes to get the job done.
Want to explore QuickBooks versus Dynamics 365 in greater detail?
Not sure you’re ready to replace QuickBooks? .
Feeling overwhelmed by the prospect of replacing QuickBooks? Fear not! .
Have questions, or want to begin your upgrade from QuickBooks to Dynamics 365? ! We will be happy to help in any way we can.
By: Laura Schomaker, Intelligent Technologies, Incorporated, a North Carolina Dynamics 365 partner
