NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics SL

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Our analysts compared NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics SL based on data from our 400+ point analysis of ERP Software, user reviews and our own crowdsourced data from our free software selection platform.

Microsoft Dynamics SL Software Tool

Product Basics

NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based enterprise resource planning (ERP) solution designed to automate and streamline core business processes. It manages all aspects of a company's operations, including financials, accounting, inventory, supply chain, and customer relationship management (CRM). NetSuite is best suited for mid-sized and large businesses with complex needs who require a comprehensive solution to manage their growth. Key benefits include improved visibility, real-time data access, increased efficiency, and enhanced collaboration. Popular features include order management, project management, financial reporting, and business intelligence. User reviews praise NetSuite's scalability, flexibility, and ease of use. However, some users mention the initial implementation cost and learning curve as drawbacks. Pricing is tiered based on the number of users and modules required. Monthly subscription fees can range from $999 to $4,999 per month. Additionally, one-time implementation fees may apply.

Pros
  • Scalable
  • Flexible
  • Easy to use
  • Real-time data
  • Improved visibility
Cons
  • High cost
  • Steep learning curve
  • Limited customization
  • Integration issues
  • Vendor lock-in
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Microsoft Dynamics SL combines the power of an ERP solution with robust project and financial management features. It helps users deal with fluctuating demand while providing accurate budgeting support to keep financial records organized.

It functions within businesses of any size and can help boost sales, reduce job costs, provide insight into company data and ensure all compliances are met. It comes in two versions, Business Essentials or Advanced Management, that can come as a complete package or users can choose a la carte.

Pros
  • Strong financial management
  • Robust project accounting
  • User-friendly interface
  • Customizable features
  • Reliable support
Cons
  • Limited customization options
  • Potentially complex setup
  • Costly add-ons
  • Reporting could be enhanced
  • Some integration challenges
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$999/User, Monthly
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$1,800/User, Annually
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Product Assistance

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Product Insights

  • Customization and visibility: The ability for clients to develop solutions that are tailored to their own business needs is a driving benefit of NetSuite ERP. The tool also provides visibility across workflows, which provides heightened transparency across departments. 
  • Built-in workflows: Built-in workflows are helpful because they allow for the automation or streamlining of various business tasks, therefore improving productivity. This benefit includes more accurate financial management and omnichannel engagement. 
  • Control over business processes: NetSuite ERP gives companies more control over business processes. For example, the program contains a supply chain portal that makes sure your customers benefit from the same experience, no matter where exactly they decide to convert within the sales funnel. 
  • Real-time insights: Real-time data is a key benefit that, when paired with NetSuite ERP’s personalized dashboards, can help your company develop insights more quickly. This can reduce the amount of time you spend filtering and sorting data to develop actionable solutions for your business. 
  • Easily accessible: NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based solution, meaning that as long as you have internet access, you can use it. This means you won’t have to be tied to your desktop computer to work with its suite of tools, which gives you the freedom to work where and when you want. 
  • Relatively low cost of ownership: Cost is an essential factor to consider when implementing an ERP solution, which is why NetSuite ERP seeks to lower its price by eliminating IT expenses (both initially and on an ongoing basis.) It also provides automatic updates so that you don’t have to pay extra for maintenance. 
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  • Quick Startup: This system leverages the simplicity of Microsoft Office apps to cut down on training time and get everyone up and running fast. 
  • Stay Mobile: Users can perform all of their necessary data entry, project management, expense entry, setup and approval from desktops, laptops and internet-enabled mobile devices. 
  • Scalable: The system is scalable and can adapt to the changing requirements of a business. Use what you need and expand as the company grows. 
  • Inclusive Project and Accounting Management: Microsoft Dynamics SL combines project management with accounting support for an accessible, end-to-end platform. 
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  • Sales Order Management: The sales order management tool provides automation that works to reduce manual errors and to speed up the billing and order management process. It is also integrated with other business functions such as finance and fulfillment. 
  • Source Management: This tool helps ensure compliance during the purchasing process through its centralized supply portal. It also has forecasting abilities that are able to recalculate predictions based on actual fluctuations. 
  • Warehouse Management: The warehouse management feature streamlines warehouse operations by decreasing overhead and cycle times. It can also improve rates of on-time delivery, therefore improving customer retention and ultimately boosting revenue. 
  • Production Management: The production management tool is integrated with CAD and PLM functionality. This feature assists in the development of quotes, tracking of contract renewals and cost estimation. 
  • Manufacturing Accounting: All of the basic features of accounting are present in this tool, from invoicing to forecasting. It can also help your company determine the amount of taxes you need to pay based on factors such as location and revenue. 
  • Transportation and Logistics: This tool is well-integrated with IoT functionality, as it lets you see in real-time where your transportation units are located. The logistic side of this tool provides inventory estimation based on historical data to help you decide what to order more of and what to order less of. 
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    Financial Management
  • Accounts Payable: Keep track of when payments are due, discounts, predict funding requirements and monitor payments as they process. 
  • General Ledgers: This feature helps users analyze financial data for informed decision-making processes. 
  • Cash Manager: The Microsoft Dynamics SL Cash Manager gives users instant access to current balances and bank reconciliation tools. 
  • Multi-Company Support: Users can monitor and analyze information from multiple companies. Keep track of multiple divisions within companies, run processes and report results based on multiple businesses. 
  • Business Intelligence
  • Business Analyzer: Users can view SQL reports, Excel charts and Management Reporter documents from internet-enabled devices.  
  • Microsoft Forecaster: This feature can be integrated to boost budgeting and planning processes through the creation of accurate and realistic budgets. 
  • Quick Query and Quick Query Web App: Users can leverage over 100 predefined views of financial information. Filter and save custom financial views with Refreshable Excel documents and Pivot tables. 
  • Project Management
  • Communicator: It features automatic alerts that inform users of upcoming deadlines, approvals, rising costs and more. This way project managers can step in before problems spiral out of control. 
  • Contract Management: Gain better control over change orders, subcontractor disbursements and document tracking. 
  • Resource Management: This included web app gives users an accessible visualization of resources to make assigning them easier. Boost profitability, track availability of personnel, billable time and more. 
  • Microsoft Project Connector: Integrate directly with Microsoft Project. Data flows directly from the original Microsoft Dynamics system without being compromised. 
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Product Ranking

#38

among all
ERP Software

#93

among all
ERP Software

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Analyst Rating Summary

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Analyst Ratings for Functional Requirements Customize This Data Customize This Data

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Microsoft Dynamics SL
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Analytics And Reporting Asset Management Customer Relationship Management Finance And Accounting Human Resource Management Inventory Management Manufacturing Order Management Procurement Project Management Service Management Supply Chain Management Warehouse Management 89 57 91 99 84 97 78 83 86 100 64 67 87 0 25 50 75 100
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User Sentiment Summary

Great User Sentiment 6448 reviews
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81%
of users recommend this product

NetSuite has a 'great' User Satisfaction Rating of 81% when considering 6448 user reviews from 5 recognized software review sites.

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Awards

SelectHub research analysts have evaluated NetSuite and concluded it earns best-in-class honors for Finance and Accounting and Warehouse Management.

Finance and Accounting Award
Warehouse Management Award

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Synopsis of User Ratings and Reviews

Real-time data and visibility: Gain immediate insights into your business performance with real-time access to all your data.
Improved efficiency and automation: Automate routine tasks and streamline workflows to boost productivity across your organization.
Enhanced collaboration: Break down departmental silos and foster better communication across teams.
Scalability and flexibility: Adapt NetSuite to your unique needs and accommodate your business growth.
Comprehensive features: Manage all aspects of your business operations with a single platform.
Improved decision-making: Get data-driven insights to make informed and strategic decisions.
Strong customer support: Reliable support is available through multiple channels to ensure your success.
High security and compliance: Secure your data and meet industry regulations with robust security features.
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Familiar Interface: Microsoft interface makes it easy to learn and use for users familiar with other Microsoft products.
Project-Centric Focus: Strong project accounting features cater to industries like construction and engineering.
Financial Management: Robust financial management tools provide accurate insights and control.
Customization Options: While not as extensive as some, it offers flexibility through configuration and add-ons.
Reliable Support: Microsoft and partner support options provide assistance and guidance.
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High cost: NetSuite's initial implementation and ongoing maintenance fees can be significant, especially for small businesses.
Steep learning curve: The platform's extensive features require significant training and user adoption efforts.
Limited customization options: While customizable, NetSuite requires technical expertise and can be costly compared to competitors.
Vendor lock-in concerns: Switching to a different ERP provider can be challenging due to potential data migration issues and dependence on NetSuite's proprietary features.
Integration challenges with certain applications: While NetSuite offers pre-built integrations, connecting with niche or less popular applications might require complex manual data entry or third-party solutions.
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Limited Customization: May not be as customizable as some other ERP systems, especially for complex needs.
Potential Setup Complexity: Initial setup can be complex, requiring IT expertise or partner assistance.
Costly Add-ons: Additional features and modules can be expensive, increasing overall cost.
Reporting Enhancements Needed: While reporting capabilities exist, some users find them lacking in flexibility and customization.
Integration Challenges: Integrating with other systems can be complex, requiring additional tools or expertise.
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User reviews for NetSuite ERP paint a mixed picture, highlighting both its strengths and weaknesses. Many users praise its comprehensive features and real-time data visibility, reporting improvements in efficiency and collaboration. One user commented, "NetSuite has transformed our business by automating tedious tasks and providing us with a single source of truth for all our data." Another added, "The collaboration features are fantastic – we can now work together seamlessly across different departments, which has boosted productivity significantly." However, users also raise concerns about the complexity of the platform and its high cost. Some find the learning curve steep and the customization options limited compared to competitors like SAP Business One and Microsoft Dynamics 365. One user noted, "NetSuite was initially overwhelming for our team due to its complexity. We had to invest heavily in training just to get started." Another commented, "The cost was a major barrier for us. We found other ERP solutions that offered similar features at a fraction of the price." The issue of vendor lock-in is another recurring concern among users. Switching to a different ERP system can be challenging due to data migration issues and dependence on NetSuite's proprietary features. One user expressed their apprehension, "We're worried about getting locked into NetSuite's ecosystem. Switching to another provider seems like a huge headache." Overall, user reviews suggest that NetSuite ERP is a powerful and feature-rich solution but comes with a steep learning curve and high cost. While it may be the perfect fit for large organizations with complex needs and significant resources, smaller businesses might find it overwhelming and expensive. When evaluating NetSuite, it's crucial to carefully consider your specific needs, budget, and technical expertise before making a decision.

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User reviews for Microsoft Dynamics SL paint a mixed picture. While lauded for its user-friendly interface and familiar Microsoft look-and-feel, especially for existing Office users, its strengths seem geared towards specific needs. "It shines in project-based industries like construction," commented one reviewer, praising its robust project accounting features. However, some find its customization options limited compared to competitors like Acumatica or NetSuite, especially for complex businesses. "Setting it up initially can be a beast," another user shared, highlighting the potential complexity and need for expert assistance. Cost is another key factor in reviews. While praised for its reliable Microsoft support, users raise concerns about additional costs. "Add-ons can get pricey," a reviewer noted, comparing it to more cost-effective options like Dynamics 365 Business Central. Reporting capabilities also drew mixed reactions. Some appreciate the standard reports and Power BI integration, while others wish for more flexibility and customization. "I miss the advanced reporting features I had in [competitive product]," shared one user, emphasizing the importance of reporting for data-driven decisions. Overall, Microsoft Dynamics SL seems like a solid choice for project-centric businesses who value familiarity and appreciate its strengths in financial management and project accounting. However, limitations in customization, setup complexity, and potentially higher costs for add-ons and integrations should be carefully considered against its competitors, especially for businesses with complex needs or strong reporting requirements.

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Screenshots

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