Companies we helped migrate from QuickBooks to NetSuite

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Struggling to choose between NetSuite vs QuickBooks for your business? Or perhaps you’re considering a QuickBooks to NetSuite migration as your company grows? Maybe you’re searching for the best way to migrate from QuickBooks to NetSuite with minimal disruption?

Ever had a small accounting error turn into a major financial disaster? A minor QuickBooks limitation that suddenly creates serious operational problems as your business grows?

Financial management breakdowns aren’t random. They happen when software limitations get ignored or critical business needs fall through the cracks of systems that can’t keep up.

And the cost? Thousands in missed opportunities, frustrated teams, and dramatic drops in business productivity. Not to mention the competitive edge you lose while struggling with inadequate tools.

The real problem? Staying with QuickBooks when your business has outgrown it.

If you’re still using QuickBooks Online or QuickBooks Enterprise when your business needs the power of Oracle NetSuite, you’re making your life harder. At Folio3, we’ve helped hundreds of businesses make the transition at exactly the right time – before small annoyances become expensive nightmares. Learn more about our NetSuite implementation services.

What Happens When You Outgrow QuickBooks?

quickbooks vs erp

Let’s say you manage a growing business currently using QuickBooks Enterprise:

Your inventory manager reports trouble tracking stock across locations. No big deal, right? You make a note, but everyone’s busy, so it gets pushed back.

A few weeks go by. The tracking issues don’t stop. Now there’s inventory discrepancies affecting your financial reporting.

A month later. The problem seeps into your customer relationships, creating shipping delays and order errors.

Now it’s not a simple fix. You need multiple workarounds, spreadsheets outside your system, and your team is spending hours reconciling data that should be automated.

All because QuickBooks couldn’t handle multi-location inventory – something NetSuite ERP manages effortlessly. Discover how NetSuite for wholesale distribution can solve your inventory challenges.

And it doesn’t stop there:

  • Manual consolidations turn into compliance nightmares.
  • Spreadsheet workarounds turn into data integrity risks.
  • Basic reporting limitations turn into strategic blind spots.

Outgrowing QuickBooks without upgrading to NetSuite = expensive disasters.

Why Staying with QuickBooks Too Long Costs You More

How much more expensive is QuickBooks in the long run compared to NetSuite? 

Most business owners don’t realize how much the cost of NetSuite vs QuickBooks actually favors NetSuite when you factor in hidden expenses. Here’s what staying with QuickBooks too long really costs:

Cost Factor Impact on Business
Manual Processes Your finance team spends 15-20 hours weekly on tasks NetSuite automates
Decision Delays Limited visibility means slower reactions to market changes
Growth Constraints New opportunities require system changes that take weeks instead of days
Data Silos Separate systems for inventory, CRM, and finance create reconciliation headaches
Compliance Risks Manual processes increase error rates and audit concerns
Scaling Costs Adding users and functionality to QuickBooks creates diminishing returns

The longer your business outgrows QuickBooks Online or Enterprise, the more expensive the problems get. But there’s a solution – and at Folio3, we specialize in making the QuickBooks to NetSuite migration smooth and successful.

Key Questions About Moving from QuickBooks to NetSuite

Before diving into specific features of Oracle NetSuite vs QuickBooks, let’s address the most common questions businesses ask us at Folio3:

Q: How do I know if my business has outgrown QuickBooks?

A: Warning signs include heavy reliance on spreadsheets outside the system, manual consolidation processes, inventory management challenges, transaction volume slowdowns, or when adding new business units becomes problematic.

Q: Will NetSuite be too complex for my team after using QuickBooks?

A: With proper implementation and training from experienced partners like Folio3, your team will quickly adapt to NetSuite. Most users report that despite more capabilities, NetSuite’s interface is intuitive and actually saves time once configured properly. Our NetSuite consulting services ensure smooth user adoption.

Q: How disruptive is the QuickBooks to NetSuite migration process?

A: With the right partner, moving from QuickBooks to NetSuite can be phased and minimally disruptive. At Folio3, we’ve developed a methodology that ensures business continuity throughout the transition.

Q: Is NetSuite worth the higher investment compared to QuickBooks pricing?

A: For growing businesses, our clients typically see ROI within 6-12 months through improved efficiency, better decision-making, reduced manual work, and ability to scale without adding proportional headcount. The NetSuite pricing vs QuickBooks difference is quickly offset by these gains.

Q: Can we keep using QuickBooks for now and add other systems as needed?

A: While possible, this “patchwork” approach often costs more in the long run through integration challenges, data discrepancies, and maintaining multiple systems. NetSuite ERP’s unified approach eliminates these issues.

NetSuite vs QuickBooks: Core Platform Comparison

What are the main differences between NetSuite and QuickBooks? Here’s a direct comparison of the core platforms:

Aspect NetSuite QuickBooks
Platform Type Full Cloud ERP System Accounting Software
Deployment Cloud-only Cloud or Desktop
Architecture Built for cloud, real-time Adapted for cloud, batch processing
User Limits Unlimited Up to 40 users for QuickBooks Enterprise
Multi-Entity Yes, with consolidated reporting Limited, separate subscriptions required
Global Capabilities Multi-language, currency, tax Basic multi-currency with some limitations
Industry Solutions Pre-configured for 12+ industries Generic, limited customization
Integration Approach Unified data model, strong APIs Robust API ecosystem with 750+ app integrations
Mobile Access Comprehensive Basic to moderate functionality

When comparing NetSuite ERP vs QuickBooks Online, the architectural differences become immediately apparent. NetSuite was built from the ground up as a cloud-based, integrated business management system, while QuickBooks was originally designed as desktop accounting software that later adapted to cloud deployment.

NetSuite vs QuickBooks Enterprise: Key Features Breakdown

1. Financial Management Capabilities

Which system offers better financial management, NetSuite or QuickBooks Enterprise? Compare their capabilities:

Feature NetSuite QuickBooks
Basic Accounting
Multi-Book Accounting
Revenue Recognition Advanced, rule-based Basic
Tax Management Global, automated US-focused, semi-manual
Fixed Assets Complete lifecycle tracking Purchase tracking only
Cash Management Advanced forecasting Basic tracking
Financial Close Automated processes Manual processes
Compliance Support ASC 606, IFRS, SOX, etc. Basic GAAP
Approval Workflows Customizable, multi-level Basic/none
Audit Trail Comprehensive Limited

Learn more about NetSuite for accounting to see how it can transform your financial operations.

2. Inventory and Supply Chain Management

How does NetSuite’s inventory management compare to QuickBooks Enterprise?

When comparing Oracle NetSuite vs QuickBooks Enterprise, the inventory management capabilities show stark differences:

Feature NetSuite QuickBooks Enterprise
Inventory Tracking Multi-location, lot, serial Basic quantities
Warehouse Management Built-in system Third-party only
Demand Planning Advanced forecasting
Manufacturing Work orders, BOM, routing Basic assembly
Procurement Full sourcing, approval workflows Basic purchasing
Shipping Integration Multiple carriers, rules Basic
Landed Cost Automated calculations Manual tracking
Drop Shipping Automated Manual
Bin Management Multi-level
Cycle Counting Scheduled, systematic Manual

3. Customer Relationship Management

Does NetSuite have better CRM capabilities than QuickBooks? When evaluating NetSuite vs QuickBooks, the CRM capabilities represent one of the most significant differences:

Feature NetSuite QuickBooks
Contact Management Comprehensive Basic, with CRM available via integrations (e.g., HubSpot)
Sales Automation Full pipeline and forecasting
Marketing Automation Campaign management
Customer Service Case management, knowledge base
Customer Portal Self-service capabilities
Email Integration Two-way sync Limited
Sales Commission Flexible rules Basic
Customer Insights 360-degree view Financial only
Opportunity Management Complete lifecycle
Quote-to-Cash Unified process Disconnected

4. Project and Service Management

Which is better for project management, NetSuite or QuickBooks? The project management capabilities highlight another major difference in the NetSuite vs QuickBooks comparison:

Feature NetSuite QuickBooks
Project Accounting Comprehensive Basic
Resource Allocation Advanced scheduling
Time Tracking Multi-dimension Basic
Expense Management Workflow, policy enforcement Basic entry
Billing Methods Fixed, time, milestone, hybrid Basic time billing
Project Profitability Real-time analysis Basic reporting
Project Templates Extensive library
Resource Utilization Advanced tracking
Gantt Charts Built-in
Client Portal Real-time access

5. Reporting and Analytics Capabilities

How does NetSuite’s reporting compare to QuickBooks? The reporting capabilities represent one of the most compelling reasons to consider moving from QuickBooks to NetSuite:

Feature NetSuite QuickBooks
Financial Reports Extensive, customizable Basic, limited
Operational Dashboards Role-based, real-time Basic
Custom Reporting Advanced builder Limited
KPI Tracking 75+ pre-built metrics Limited
Forecasting Statistical methods Basic
Consolidation Automated Manual
Drill-Down Transaction level Limited
Business Intelligence Built-in analytics Third-party only
Saved Searches Powerful, customizable Limited
Report Scheduling Automated distribution Manual

NetSuite vs QuickBooks: Scale and Growth Considerations

netsuite vs quickbooks

User Management and Accessibility

How do NetSuite and QuickBooks compare for user management and security?

NetSuite:

  • Granular access controls down to field level
  • Custom roles and dashboards by job function
  • Single sign-on (SSO) and two-factor authentication
  • Comprehensive audit trail of all user activities
  • Mobile access to full functionality

QuickBooks:

  • Basic permission sets, limited customization
  • Simple user roles
  • Basic access controls
  • Limited audit tracking
  • Restricted mobile functionality

Scalability Factors

Which system scales better, NetSuite or QuickBooks Enterprise? When comparing NetSuite vs QuickBooks Enterprise, scalability becomes a critical differentiator:

Factor NetSuite QuickBooks Enterprise
Transaction Volume High capacity but with limitations Limited to practical usage constraints
Data Volume File size impacts performance, service tiers determine capacity Recommended to keep under 1.5 GB file size
Entity Structure Multiple subsidiaries Single company (limited multi)
International Global business ready US-centric
Customization Extensive without coding Limited
Workflow Automation Advanced Basic/none
API Capabilities Robust, well-documented Limited
Ecosystem 600+ SuiteApps, partners 650+ apps, varying quality
Business Model Changes Flexible adaptation Often requires new setup
M&A Activity Supports integration Typically requires parallel systems

NetSuite vs QuickBooks Cost: Understanding the Total Investment

How much more does NetSuite cost compared to QuickBooks? The cost of NetSuite vs QuickBooks goes beyond just subscription pricing:

Cost Factor NetSuite QuickBooks
Base Subscription $999-$2,999/month $25-$150/month
User Licenses $99-$199/user/month Included in plans (limited)
Implementation $40,000+ $0-$5,000
Additional Modules $499-$1,499/month each Add-ons vary
Customization $70+/hour Limited options
Training $1,500-$5,000 $0-$500
Support Basic included, Premium tiers available Basic included
Third-Party Apps Fewer needed Often required
Upgrades Included, automatic May require repurchase

While NetSuite pricing vs QuickBooks shows a higher initial investment, the total cost of ownership calculation changes dramatically when you factor in efficiency gains and eliminated manual processes.

QuickBooks to NetSuite Migration: Our Proven Process

What is the process for migrating from QuickBooks to NetSuite? 

quickbooks to netsuite migration

At Folio3, we’ve refined the QuickBooks to NetSuite migration process through hundreds of successful implementations. Here’s how we ensure your transition delivers maximum value with minimum disruption:

1. Strategic Assessment

  • Gap Analysis: Identifying what’s missing and how NetSuite addresses it
  • Roadmap Development: Phased approach aligned with business priorities

2. QuickBooks to NetSuite Migration Implementation

  • Dedicated Team: Certified NetSuite experts with industry experience
  • Business Process Optimization: Redesigning workflows for efficiency
  • Data Migration Approach: Historical trial balances can be migrated, but historical transactions are typically avoided due to complexity. Data extraction and cleanup are usually handled by the customer.
  • Knowledge Transfer Focus: Building your team’s capabilities
  • Change Management: Ensuring user adoption and satisfaction
  • Phased Approach: Manageable implementation stages

3. QuickBooks Desktop to NetSuite Migration Success Factors

How do you migrate data from QuickBooks Desktop to NetSuite? These are the key factors for success:

  • Data Cleansing: Identifying and resolving data issues in QuickBooks Desktop before migration
  • Field Mapping: Creating detailed relationships between QuickBooks and NetSuite data structures
  • Customization Planning: Implementing NetSuite modifications to support unique business requirements
  • Testing Protocol: Rigorous validation to ensure data accuracy and process functionality
  • User Training: Comprehensive education on new capabilities and workflows
  • Cutover Strategy: Coordinated transition with minimal business disruption

Industry-Specific Insights for QuickBooks to NetSuite Migrations

How does NetSuite compare to QuickBooks for different industries? 

Different industries face unique challenges when migrating from QuickBooks to NetSuite. Here’s how Folio3 addresses specific industry needs:

Manufacturing

Why is NetSuite better than QuickBooks for manufacturing companies?

Key QuickBooks Enterprise Limitations:

  • Limited bill of materials functionality
  • No work order management
  • Inadequate inventory control
  • Missing shop floor visibility
  • Manual production scheduling

NetSuite ERP Value Drivers:

  • Complete production management
  • Material Requirements Planning (MRP)
  • Quality management and lot tracking
  • Actual vs. standard costing

Improve on-time delivery from 82% to 96% and reduce inventory carrying costs by 24% with NetSuite implementation.

Professional Services & IT Consulting

Which is better for IT consulting firms, NetSuite or QuickBooks?

Key QuickBooks Limitations:

  • Limited project accounting
  • Basic time tracking
  • Manual resource allocation
  • Disconnected billing processes
  • Poor utilization visibility

NetSuite Value Drivers:

  • Comprehensive project management
  • Advanced resource optimization
  • Skills-based scheduling
  • Flexible billing methods
  • Real-time project profitability
  • Utilization dashboards

See how Folio3 helped Cooperative Computing migrate from QuickBooks to NetSuite

Cooperative Computing, an IT consulting firm operating across four countries since 2013, struggled with fragmented data systems, using QuickBooks alongside separate invoicing, project management, and CRM applications. This disconnected approach significantly reduced efficiency in accounting, financial reporting, and project management operations.

The company faced particular challenges such as 

  • Tracking project profitability 
  • Consolidating financials across their international subsidiaries. 
  • Intercompany accounting was becoming increasingly problematic as they grew.

After implementing NetSuite with Folio3, Cooperative Computing consolidated all core functions onto a single platform. They have been able to;

  • Simplify and accelerate operations
  • Improve project management
  • Automate multi-entity consolidations and currency conversions. 
  • Leadership now tracks profitability on a project basis and generates valuable insights through segmented reporting by business division.

NetSuite revenue management capabilities eliminated manual scheduling work previously done in spreadsheets. Most importantly, Cooperative Computing dramatically improved the reliability and accuracy of their data by eliminating error-prone manual data work – a problem that had plagued them throughout their QuickBooks years.

folio3 netsuite award

This successful implementation earned Folio3 the prestigious Summer 2024 Alliance Partner Spotlight Award from NetSuite in the Software and IT Services category for outstanding work with Cooperative Computing Group.

See how Folio3 helped Cooperative Computing migrate from QuickBooks to NetSuite.

Wholesale Distribution & Construction

Is NetSuite or QuickBooks better for distribution and construction companies?

Key QuickBooks Limitations:

  • Basic inventory management
  • Limited warehouse functionality
  • Manual order processing
  • Disconnected shipping systems
  • Inadequate project costing

NetSuite ERP Value Drivers:

  • Advanced inventory with bin management
  • Order allocation optimization
  • Automated pick, pack, ship
  • Integrated shipping with rate shopping
  • Demand planning and forecasting

Another successful QuickBooks to NetSuite migration: United California Glass & Door.

United California Glass & Door (UCGD), a supplier and contractor of windows, doors, skylights, frames, and entrances for commercial and residential clients since 1991, experienced steady growth that strained their QuickBooks Desktop system, especially as they expanded into security, access control, and fire protection services.

UCGD struggled with:

  • Financial consolidation and intercompany accounting across their 14 subsidiaries – a significant limitation of QuickBooks. 
  • They couldn’t perform project-based financial reporting and faced inefficient manual work in procurement, sales orders, and billing.

After implementing NetSuite with Folio3, 

  • UCGD accelerated and simplified their multi-subsidiary financial consolidations while strengthening controls across key processes. 
  • The new system provided project-specific reporting with enhanced visibility into costs, revenue, and profitability.

Folio3’s customizations eliminated problems in accounting for taxes UCGD had paid on behalf of vendors and simplified the creation of invoices and customer-facing documents. 

The company’s next step is to implement NetSuite Inventory Management and integrate with Salesforce CRM to further increase efficiency and transparency across sales and finance – integrations that would have been much more challenging with their previous QuickBooks system.

folio3 netsuite awards

This successful implementation earned Folio3 the prestigious Summer 2024 Alliance Partner Spotlight Award from NetSuite in the Building Materials category for outstanding work with United California Glass and Door.

NetSuite vs QuickBooks: Making the Decision

Should my business use QuickBooks or NetSuite? The choice between QuickBooks and NetSuite ultimately comes down to your business needs and growth trajectory:

QuickBooks is the right choice when:

  • You’re a small business with straightforward accounting needs
  • You have fewer than 20 employees accessing the system
  • Your operations are primarily in one country
  • You manage a single business entity
  • You don’t need advanced inventory, manufacturing, or service management
  • Your growth trajectory is stable and predictable

NetSuite is the right choice when:

  • You’re experiencing growing pains with your current system
  • You need visibility across multiple departments or entities
  • Your business is expanding domestically or internationally
  • You need advanced functionality beyond basic accounting
  • Manual workarounds are consuming too much of your team’s time
  • You want a platform that can grow with your business for the next decade

Your Next Steps with Folio3

How do I start the process of moving from QuickBooks to NetSuite? 

Ready to explore whether moving from QuickBooks to NetSuite is right for your business? Folio3 offers a structured approach to help you decide:

  1. Free Consultation: 30-minute call with a NetSuite expert to discuss your specific challenges
  2. QuickBooks Assessment: Analysis of your current setup, identifying limitations and opportunities
  3. NetSuite Demo: Customized demonstration focused on addressing your pain points
  4. Implementation Roadmap: Phased approach aligned with your business priorities

There’s no obligation, and you’ll gain valuable insights regardless of your decision. Contact us today to get started.

The Folio3 Advantage for Your NetSuite Implementation

Why choose Folio3 for QuickBooks to NetSuite migration? 

When selecting a partner for your QuickBooks to NetSuite migration, experience matters. Folio3 brings unique advantages:

  • Proven Methodology: Refined through 200+ successful implementations
  • QuickBooks Migration Specialists: Deep understanding of both platforms
  • Certified NetSuite Expertise: Solution architects, developers, and consultants
  • Industry Experience: Specific knowledge of best practices in your sector
  • Custom Development Capabilities: Tailoring NetSuite to your unique needs
  • Training Excellence: Ensuring your team maximizes system value
  • Ongoing Support: Responsive assistance when you need it
  • Continuous Optimization: Regular reviews to enhance your return

Client success metrics:

  • 97% implementation satisfaction rating
  • 94% of projects completed on time and on budget
  • 87% first-year ROI achievement or exceeding projections
  • 4.8/5 ongoing support satisfaction score

Frequently Asked Questions About NetSuite vs QuickBooks

Is NetSuite more expensive than QuickBooks?

While NetSuite’s upfront subscription cost is higher than QuickBooks, the total cost of ownership often favors NetSuite when you factor in efficiency gains, eliminated manual processes, and the ability to scale without adding proportional headcount. Most businesses see positive ROI within 6-12 months of implementation.

How long does it take to implement NetSuite coming from QuickBooks?

The typical implementation timeframe ranges from 3-6 months depending on business complexity. With Folio3’s proven methodology, we focus on minimizing disruption and ensuring business continuity throughout the transition. Our phased approach allows critical functions to go live first, with supporting processes following in a planned sequence.

Can I migrate historical data from QuickBooks to NetSuite?

Yes, historical data can be migrated from QuickBooks to NetSuite. Folio3’s data migration experts ensure clean, accurate transfer of your critical business information. We typically recommend migrating open transactions, master records, and 1-3 years of historical transactions depending on your business needs.

Will my team need extensive training to use NetSuite?

With proper implementation and role-based training from Folio3, most users adapt quickly to NetSuite. Despite having more capabilities, many users report that NetSuite’s interface is intuitive and actually saves time once properly configured. Our training approach focuses on practical, job-specific skills to ensure rapid adoption.

Can NetSuite handle my industry-specific requirements?

NetSuite offers pre-configured solutions for 12+ industries, with additional customization capabilities to address unique requirements. Folio3 has deep experience implementing NetSuite across manufacturing, distribution, professional services, retail, software, and many other industries. Our team can configure the system to match your specific business processes.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice Between NetSuite and QuickBooks

The decision to migrate from QuickBooks to NetSuite represents a strategic investment in your business’s future. While QuickBooks serves small businesses with basic needs effectively, growing companies eventually reach a tipping point where the limitations become barriers to growth.

NetSuite removes these barriers with a unified, scalable platform that grows with your business. The real value isn’t just in more features – it’s in the operational efficiency, strategic visibility, and competitive advantage that comes from having your entire business running on a single, integrated system.

At Folio3, we’ve guided hundreds of businesses through this important transition. Our proven methodology, industry expertise, and commitment to client success ensure your journey from QuickBooks to NetSuite delivers maximum value with minimum disruption.

The question isn’t whether your business will outgrow QuickBooks – it’s when, and how prepared you’ll be when that time comes. By partnering with Folio3 for your NetSuite implementation, you’re not just changing software – you’re positioning your business for sustainable, efficient growth for years to come.

Get started with your NetSuite evaluation today and discover how we can help transform your business operations.

 

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