NetSuite Inc. — NetSuite

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From the Sept. 2007 Review of Mid-Range Accounting Systems

The latest version of NetSuite (Version 2007.0) launched in May 2007, offering a fully integrated financial management system designed for small to mid-sized companies. NetSuite supports company-side operations including ERP, CRM and e-Commerce. Entirely web-based, NetSuite 2007.0 contains an amazing array of new features and system enhancements that make this product more competitive than ever before.

Ease of Use/Transaction Entry -- 5 Stars

Designed specifically as a SaaS (Software as a Service) application, NetSuite offers on-demand software while integrating both front and back office functionality with an unbeatable e-Commerce solution, as well. The use of a single database, entirely hosted by NetSuite, means rapid software deployment and a shorter learning curve. An excellent choice for companies with multiple geographical locations, NetSuite is easily accessible from virtually any location that has Web access.

The NetSuite user interface offers system access according to administrator-defined roles. This system is extremely flexible, with over 50 pre-defined roles from which to choose. The Dashboard allows for the customization of the homepage to display operational and financial indicators simply by clicking on “customize this page” where users can choose which features to display.

The Setup Manager provides assistance with company and user setup with a list of tasks that will need to be completed along with instructions on how to complete those tasks. Drop-down menu functionality is found at the top of the homepage and reflects user access and preferences. New functions such as sales orders, invoices, customers and other transactions can be entered from the individual module or via the “create new” option beneath the toolbar. Data-entry screens are uncluttered and contain lookup options throughout. Data can be entered on the fly, and prior transactions can be accessed while entering new data.

Modules & Notable Features -- 5 Stars
Along with the completely integrated product suite, NetSuite also offers NetSuite Small Business, NetSuite CRM+ and NetSuite CRM. A wholesale/distribution edition is also available, along with services and software editions. NetSuite modules are divided into three categories. Accounting/ERP includes GL, AR, AP, Inventory, Purchasing, Time & Billing, and Payroll. The CRM features include Salesforce Automation, Customer Support and Service, and Marketing Automation. e-Commerce capabilities include site building, inventory and order management, search engine optimization, and even system integration with eBay.

The recently released version of NetSuite contains extensive enhancements throughout, including the addition of financial ratios on the Dashboard, improved serial number tracking, a website content manager for easy website design and editing, a more thorough setup manager feature, automatic currency exchange rate updates, better revenue forecasting capabilities, and improved transaction layout functionality. NetSuite offers a level of customization seldom seen and rarely available in traditional software products at this level. Even a few hours spent customizing NetSuite will result in a product that truly is customized to suit the needs of a company and its employees.

Integration/Import/Export -- 5 Stars
NetSuite is a completely integrated system that uses a single database that easily merges front and back office functions. The new Import Assistant is an excellent tool that allows users to choose the type of file and format they wish to import, and then utilize the mapping function to easily move those files from existing programs into NetSuite.

Data can also be imported from QuickBooks, as well as both imported and exported to *.CSV files. The CRM function supports Mail Merge capability, and the SuiteTalk function allows for the transfer of data via Web Services. The addition of SuiteFlex, available as of October 2006, increases the ability to build custom interfaces using JavaScript extensions.