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It’s time to pit NetSuite vs. Microsoft Dynamics 365. In the expansive world of enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, a few names stand above the rest. Two such names are Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365, but despite their notable presence, knowing which one is right for your company can prove challenging.
With that said, the following NetSuite vs. Microsoft Dynamics 365 comparison will explore everything there is to know regarding both platforms, from pricing and licensing to the full implementation process. By familiarizing yourself with the nuances of each platform, you can identify the solution that is the best fit for your business.
NetSuite or Microsoft Dynamics 365?
Microsoft Dynamics 365, as the latest and greatest in the long line of the tech giant’s ERP solutions, is cloud-based, offering exceptional scalability. Naturally, it seamlessly integrates with the entire Microsoft ecosystem of business apps while also offering some third-party integrations as well.
Oracle NetSuite is widely considered to be the leader in ERP software. It features dozens of modules and applications, a versatile design, and exceptional scalability. NetSuite also offers countless integrations with third-party tools, making it a good fit for businesses in a wide range of industries.
Overall, NetSuite is the more versatile solution, as it can be tailored to meet the needs of small to mid-sized businesses and large corporations alike. Nevertheless, Dynamics 365 is best suited for small to mid-sized companies that already rely on the Microsoft product ecosystem, given its integration capabilities.
Understanding NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365
In today’s digital age, ERP systems serve as the backbone of your company. They provide cutting-edge tools with which to manage your data and processes, offer real-time insights, and empower decision-making with advanced forecasting capabilities.
Regardless of what industry you operate within, you need an ERP solution; the question, however, lies in knowing which one is best for your business, and despite the fact that both NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 are top-tier ERPs, each has a unique flair. With that said, let’s take a closer look at how they stack up.
What Is NetSuite?
NetSuite ERP is a cloud-based ERP solution designed to scale with your business as it grows. Its modular design allows you to choose the applications you need and leave out the ones you don’t, keeping costs down. From startups to established enterprises, NetSuite offers modules for customer relationship management (CRM), e-commerce, finance, and more, all under one unified platform.
Some key NetSuite features and attributes include the following:
- User-based pricing
- Transparent billing practices
- Dozens of available modules
- Countless integrations
- Holistic financial management capabilities
- CRM integration
- Customizable dashboards
With NetSuite ERP, you can retake control of your supply chain and inventory, track goods from production to transaction, monitor every cent of revenue, and proactively identify any sources of waste that may be undermining your growth trajectory.
What Is Microsoft Dynamics 365?
Dynamics 365 is Microsoft’s answer to ERP and CRM solutions. Like NetSuite, Dynamics 365 is modular, and from sales and customer service to finance and operations apps, the platform includes tools you can use to manage your core business processes. It effortlessly integrates with products like Office 365, Azure, and Outlook, offering your team a familiar experience.
Additional ERP Software Comparison Factors
As we dive deeper into our ERP software comparison, consider the differences between the aspects of both platforms, such as the following:
Pricing and Licensing
NetSuite operates on a subscription-based pricing model. The price includes everything, such as updates, maintenance, and customer support, but it is essential to note that NetSuite’s pricing can be a bit higher than some other ERP providers. Nevertheless, you’ll receive a more-than-fair amount of bang for your buck.
Dynamics 365 offers modular pricing, meaning you only pay for the modules you use. While it’s cost-friendly for small businesses that only need a few applications, expenses will certainly mount as you add more modules and user licenses, and unlike NetSuite, Microsoft does not include everything for its base price. You may incur extra fees for licensing support modules like SharePoint.
Implementation Process
NetSuite has a cloud-native architecture, which promotes faster deployment. Everything is available straight from the cloud, thereby minimizing setup time; however, migrating data from your existing systems can be tedious, especially if it is siloed across multiple applications.
Dynamics 365 also offers cloud-based deployment to speed up your implementation process, and if your business is already using other Microsoft products, you may enjoy an even faster rollout.
That said, migrating data from numerous legacy systems will prove tedious, regardless of the ERP platform you choose, which is why many businesses choose to work with a Microsoft or NetSuite service provider. A provider like QBIX assists with everything from planning to rollout and post-deployment support, all so you can enjoy a frictionless implementation.
Customization and Scalability
In terms of scalability and customization, the two platforms sound pretty evenly matched. NetSuite is renowned for its scalability, evolving right alongside the businesses it supports, and with SuiteCloud Developer Network, the software can be tailored to a company’s unique needs.
Similarly, the modular, cloud-based nature of Dynamics 365 also ensures scalability. You can add or remove apps as the needs of your business change, and Microsoft’s Power Platform makes customizing the solution quick and easy.
Still, NetSuite offers a broader mix of modules, making it the better long-term solution for most businesses. It offers a holistic view of all core business processes, from finance to HR, thereby expediting your decision-making and helping you turn your company into a finely-tuned machine.
User Experience and Support
NetSuite’s user interface (UI) is clean and user-friendly. Even if your team is new to ERP systems, they will have no problem getting to know NetSuite’s common-sense menus and tools, and on the support front, NetSuite offers robust customer aid. There is also a bustling user community that you can turn to for peer assistance.
If you’re familiar with Microsoft products, Dynamics 365 will feel like just another Microsoft application with some cool new tools. The support is top-notch, and the active community often has answers to your questions.
As such, when it comes to user experience and support, you can’t go wrong with either ERP solution. You’ll have no problem getting the help you need if you encounter a snag, and both platforms offer clean, crisp user interfaces, so even your less tech-savvy employees should be able to find their way around.
Integration Capabilities
All of NetSuite’s core applications are already integrated, which means that they automatically communicate, share information, and consolidate your data into a centralized database. Moreover, the SuiteCloud Developer Network makes it easy to integrate your favorite third-party tools. Once integrated, these tools will also share data with NetSuite, thereby providing a more holistic view of your business.
Nevertheless, Dynamics 365 excels in integration, too, especially if you’re already in the Microsoft ecosystem. It includes built-in connectors and Microsoft Power Automate, which make it easier to connect with third-party tools.
Industry-Specific Solutions
NetSuite provides industry-specific solutions catering to sectors like retail, manufacturing, health, and non-profit organizations. Each comes with features and tools tailored to the particular industry’s unique demands.
While Dynamics 365 does not offer industry-specific solutions, it truly shines in industries already leveraging Microsoft’s suite of products. Over the years, Microsoft has continuously improved its offerings for retailers, manufacturers, and finance organizations.
Final Take
As evidenced, in a direct NetSuite vs. Microsoft Dynamics 365 comparison, both business management software platforms are robust, versatile, and capable. However, NetSuite has a broader array of integration capabilities, modules, and third-party providers that can ensure you enjoy a seamless implementation.
As a NetSuite service provider, QBIX Analytics helps clients like you plan, implement, and configure the NetSuite business management platform. With us in your corner, you can enjoy a condensed time to value and a robust return on investment. Additionally, we offer complementary solutions designed to help you derive even more value from your NetSuite platform.
Contact us today to learn more about our NetSuite implementation services and proprietary applications.
FAQs
NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 have different feature sets, pricing models, and industry focus. Specifically, NetSuite provides a broader set of integrated business management tools, encompassing everything from CRM to financials, making it an all-in-one solution for your business. Microsoft Dynamics 365 stands out for its integration with other Microsoft applications, allowing small to mid-sized businesses already within the Microsoft ecosystem to easily merge the ERP with their current tools.
QBIX specializes in facilitating a smooth transition to NetSuite. We offer tailored training sessions to get your team up to speed, address any concerns that may arise, and ensure the implementation aligns with your business goals and processes. With QBIX, you’re not just purchasing software; you’re investing in a partner committed to ensuring a successful transition.
As you consider the integration capabilities of each platform, you should be mindful of the following:
1. Your Existing Software Stack: Gauge how easy it will be to integrate the ERP with your current software tools
2. Pre-Built Connectors: Look for pre-built connectors that will expedite the integration and allow you to connect third-party tools
3. Scalability: The solution should be adaptable and grow with your business
Overall, NetSuite offers better scalability and a broader mix of integrations. It also features dozens of connectors, ensuring an accelerated implementation process.
NetSuite offers a transparent pricing structure based on three factors: the number of users you enroll, the modules you implement, and your usage/consumption. It’s straightforward, giving your business a clear idea of both upfront and ongoing costs.
On the other hand, Microsoft Dynamics 365 has a more intricate pricing model. While it also considers user enrollment and implemented modules, there are also some hidden costs, such as needing to license certain complementary Microsoft applications, like SharePoint, to run Dynamics 365. Therefore, it’s crucial to pinpoint any additional fees that could drive up the cost of implementing Dynamics 365.
QBIX’s commitment to your business goes far beyond the initial implementation process. We offer ongoing support designed to soften your team’s learning curve and condense your time to value. From troubleshooting issues during the NetSuite rollout to answering queries and training your team, QBIX is there to offer guidance and expertise. With our continued support, you can confidently navigate the NetSuite landscape and ensure the software aligns with your business needs.