In today’s competitive business world, companies are always searching for ways to streamline their operations and maximize efficiency. Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software has become an important tool for achieving these goals, and two popular options are NetSuite and SAP Business One.
Need help determining which platform is right for your business? Here’s an up-close look at SAP Business One vs. Netsuite.
SAP Business One is the original SAP software for small to medium-sized businesses. It provides end-to-end functionality for managing financials, sales, purchases, inventory, and production.
You can deploy SAP Business One on-premise or, as of 2012, in the cloud. Its modular design allows companies to choose their desired features and add more as they grow. Several other selling points include:
There are a few other types of SAP, including SAP Business ByDesign and SAP 4HANA. Check out our comparison of NetSuite vs. SAP to learn more.
NetSuite is a cloud-based ERP that serves a wide range of industries and company sizes. Its cloud-based architecture enables users to access the software from any device with an internet connection — making it an excellent option for remote teams.
Other key features include, but aren’t limited to, the following:
When comparing SAP Business One vs. NetSuite, you’ll want to consider several factors: deployment, integration, software features, reporting capabilities, and ease of use.
SAP Business One: SAP Business One was launched as an on-premise ERP solution; this means you must house the system on your building’s servers. While this works for businesses with remote operations and limited internet access, more flexible solutions exist.
As of 2012, SAP Business One offers hybrid deployment options. You can either deploy the system in the cloud or on-premise.
NetSuite: NetSuite is 100% cloud-based ERP software that offers users easy access through a web browser.
NetSuite supports over 33,000 customers and is one of the first cloud software companies, making them a clear leader in the industry. Generally speaking, NetSuite is easier to deploy because of its history as a cloud software solution, which gives partners the experience of creating quick, effective processes.
SAP Business One: Any reputable ERP system should be able to integrate with other software and vendors. SAP Business One supports SAQ-based integrations with data and interface APIs and offers several preconfigured integration options, including Salesforce, Shopify, MailChimp, UPS, and Magneto.
While SAP Business One has a few add-ons, NetSuite's offerings are more robust. SAP S and SAP 4HANA have more integration potential than SAP Business One, though they might be more expensive.
NetSuite: NetSuite might be a better fit if your business needs multiple integrations with niche software or large-scale customizations. They offer various add-ons and integration functions. Plus, multiple platforms can integrate with NetSuite, including but not limited to the following:
SAP Business One: SAP Business One and NetSuite offer robust features, including financial management, inventory, order management, CRM, and more. You can also customize the software and main dashboard.
However, SAP Business One is primarily designed for small businesses and may lack the advanced functionality that larger organizations require. For example, you might need additional licenses for HR management functions and eCommerce integration. While doable, these costs can quickly add up.
NetSuite: On the other hand, NetSuite is known for its comprehensive feature set, making it a suitable choice for businesses of all sizes. Some of NetSuite's most popular features include:
Unlike SAP Business One, NetSuite already includes these functionalities, so integrating them and their data isn't necessary.
NetSuite also contains more out-of-the-box customization capabilities than SAP Business One. Not only can you update NetSuite’s home dashboard, but you can also alter reports and saved searches. Plus, with the help of experienced NetSuite developers, you can personalize more than the basic software allows. That way, it suits any work role!
SAP Business One: SAP Business One offers a wide range of reporting capabilities. However, some advanced customizations require licensing add-ons. For example, you’ll need the SAP Crystal reports add-on to access certain reports and dashboards, which costs an additional $495 per user.
NetSuite: Besides full customization, NetSuite provides drill-down reports out of the box. NetSuite also offers real-time reporting, personalized reports, and data analytics to help business owners create dashboards and presentations as needed.
SAP Business One: SAP Business One’s user interface is easy to navigate, with a simple layout and intuitive controls. Compared to NetSuite, SAP Business One also offers more software update flexibility. The option to schedule updates means they won’t disrupt your workflow, and you’ll have more time to prepare for them.
In terms of pitfalls, updates can sometimes mess with your software’s customizations. When this happens, customers typically need the help of a developer to restore things to how they were.
Fortunately, SAP Business One offers various support options, including online resources, user communities, and direct customer support.
NetSuite: While still user-friendly, NetSuite might take some time to master due to its complex feature set and customizable dashboards. Additionally, NetSuite updates roll out immediately, so you have little control over when they happen; this might be frustrating if you're in a pinch and the update isn't compatible with certain customizations or integrations.
However, NetSuite’s support team is known for its responsiveness and expertise, making them the better choice for companies that need extensive assistance.
Ultimately, the choice between SAP Business One and NetSuite depends on your business's needs. SAP Business One suits small businesses looking for a comprehensive, easy-to-use ERP solution. At the same time, NetSuite's cloud-based architecture and advanced features make it a better choice for larger companies with complex needs.
Carefully consider what customizations you need, what deployment type you prefer, and who your implementation provider will be before you make the call. The best ERP solution is the one that fits your unique requirements and helps you achieve your business goals.
Are you on the fence about SAP Business One or NetSuite? Our cloud software experts can help! With decades of experience, we’ll show you how NetSuite works and what it can do for your business.
Contact us to schedule a FREE consultation!