There are plenty of famous rivalries -  Thomas Edison vs. Nikola Tesla, Nike vs Reebok, Steve Jobs vs Bill Gates, Coke vs Pepsi. The list goes on. In this blog we are weighing the differences between two closely aligned vendor solutions - NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance.

We have previously compared and contrasted NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central but this time around we are specifically looking at Dynamics 365 Finance -  one of three modules that make up Dynamics 365’s ERP arm (the other two being Dynamics 365 for Retail and Dynamics 365 for Talent).

Both platforms offer sophisticated business management solutions designed to unify and support complex financial and organisational processes. In fact, they share many common features, most notably:

  • Native-cloud solutions licensed in software-as-a-service versions
  • One version of the truth with all of your data located in a single source
  • Highly flexible and comprehensive
  • Seamless deployment options
  • Each have their own app marketplaces
  • Can scale in both directions 

So what are they both known for and what sets them apart? Let’s get to it.

1. Reporting and insight

NetSuite’s native reporting capabilities enable companies to track performance and organisational health, with real-time financial analysis and modelling across various dimensions of a business. Customers can choose to tap the suite of standardised reports out of the box, use the highly popular "Saved Search", create customisable reports or leverage NetSuite’s BI solution to get the power of built-in, real-time dashboards, reporting and analysis across all the integrated processes within the NetSuite software suite.

Dynamics 365 Finance allows users to create, maintain, deploy and view financial statements or connect with Microsoft’s Power BI tool to enhance business intelligence capabilities. There is also built-in predictive analytics and intelligence for deeper business insights.

2. Supply chain capabilities

Both vendors excel in this area. NetSuite uses inventory management and demand planning techniques, combined with a robust scheduling engine and predictive analytics, to help businesses make informed decisions that ensure product availability while keeping excess inventory to a minimum. Order fulfillment processes are seamless thanks to direct integrations with many distributors.

Microsoft Dynamics Finance also has strong supply chain capabilities, including multisite planning, quality management, shop floor management, scheduling and advanced product configuration.

3. Integration options

Naturally, Microsoft Dynamics Finance is tightly integrated with Microsoft’s other productivity products, including a native connection with LinkedIn Sales Navigator (LinkedIn was acquired by Microsoft). This also means that for existing Microsoft users, the Dynamics interface will be familiar.

NetSuite is also a highly extensible platform. Customers have the option to enhance their platform with a range of NetSuite modules – such as Payroll or HR, third party integrations, apps, workflows, scripting and more. 

However, NetSuite does contain multiple business solutions within the one platform reducing the need for integrations, with CRM, project management, supply chain and HR already included.

4. Machine learning and artificial intelligence

Both platforms now natively integrate artificial intelligence and machine learning-based capabilities into their suites.  For NetSuite, this gives customers the ability to access better insights, support efficiencies through process automation and use predictive capabilities to determine the next best action. Not to be left behind, Microsoft Dynamics Finance offers similar capabilities along with a digital assistant.

NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance features

 

NetSuite

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Finance

Features
  • Financial management
  • Accounting
  • Budgeting
  • Planning
  • Tax management
  • Manufacturing
  • Supply chain management
  • Time & expense management
  • Project estimation & management
  • Support

eCommerce Functionality

Choose from SuiteCommerce Standard or SuiteCommerce Advanced and integrate with a range of eCommerce apps

External options available – such as Dynamics eShop

Security
  • Continuous, dedicated security monitoring
  • Strong 256-bit encryption
  • Role-level access and idle disconnect
  • Location-based IP address restrictions
  • Application-only access
  • Strong password rules
  • Two-factor authentication
  • Azure AD authentication 
  • Azure encryption protocols
  • Multi-factor authentication 
  • User roles settings including access rights, user privileges, session time outs and change audits.

Customisation and integrations

Limitless options for integrations and customisations. NetSuite Connectors allow you to connect NetSuite with hundreds of apps - no coding required.

Connects with the wider Microsoft portfolio and many extensions available

Software subscription

Subscription based with price protection

Subscription-based

As you may have noticed, while neither NetSuite nor Microsoft Dynamics significantly outpaces the other overall, NetSuite does have an edge with its more unified platform. Both are big names in the ERP space, boasting industry-leading capabilities, scalable modern platforms, and extensive customisation options through integrations, modules, and add-ons. 

Given their similarities, the deciding factor for businesses ultimately hinges on specific requirements, objectives, and the selection of a suitable implementation partner to determine which ERP solution best aligns with an organisation's unique needs.

Learn how an integrated NetSuite solution can help you overcome your business challenges by speaking with a NetSuite consultant today.

Annexa is a leading NetSuite partner with extensive experience designing and implementing comprehensive and customised business systems, including payroll solutions, financial management, warehouse management and ecommerce solutions.