Navigating the world of accounting software can feel like traversing a vast, open plain. You need a reliable tool to guide you, manage your resources, and ensure a smooth journey. That’s where Great Plains accounting software comes in. But what exactly is it, and why should you consider it for your business? Let’s explore the landscape of Great Plains and see if it’s the right fit for you.
What is Great Plains Accounting Software?
Great Plains, now known as Microsoft Dynamics GP, is a comprehensive enterprise resource planning (ERP) system designed for small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). It’s more than just accounting software; it’s a suite of integrated modules that can manage various aspects of your business, from financials and inventory to sales and operations.
- Financial Management: Handle general ledger, accounts payable, accounts receivable, bank reconciliation, and more.
- Supply Chain Management: Optimize your inventory, purchasing, and sales order processing.
- Manufacturing: Manage production planning, bill of materials, and shop floor control.
- Human Resources and Payroll: Streamline employee management, payroll processing, and benefits administration.
- Business Intelligence and Reporting: Gain insights into your business performance with robust reporting and analytics tools.
Key Benefits of Using Great Plains
Implementing Great Plains accounting software can bring numerous advantages to your organization. Here are some of the most significant benefits:
- Improved Efficiency: Automate manual processes, reduce errors, and streamline workflows.
- Enhanced Visibility: Gain a clear, real-time view of your business performance.
- Better Decision-Making: Make informed decisions based on accurate data and insightful reports.
- Increased Productivity: Empower your employees with the tools they need to be more productive.
- Scalability: Grow your business with a system that can adapt to your changing needs.
- Integration: Seamlessly integrate with other Microsoft products, such as Office 365 and Power BI.
Who is Great Plains Best Suited For?
While Great Plains accounting software offers a wide range of features, it’s not necessarily the perfect solution for every business. It’s generally best suited for:
- Small to Medium-Sized Businesses (SMBs): Companies with complex accounting needs and a desire for a comprehensive ERP system.
- Businesses with Multiple Locations: Great Plains can manage operations across multiple locations and subsidiaries.
- Businesses in Specific Industries: Certain industries, such as manufacturing, distribution, and professional services, often find Great Plains particularly well-suited to their needs.
- Businesses Seeking Integration with Microsoft Products: If your organization already relies heavily on Microsoft products, Great Plains offers seamless integration.
Key Features to Look For
When evaluating Great Plains accounting software, consider these key features:
- Customization Options: Can the software be customized to meet your specific business requirements?
- Reporting Capabilities: Does it offer robust reporting and analytics tools?
- Integration Capabilities: Does it integrate with other systems you use?
- User-Friendliness: Is the software easy to use and navigate?
- Security Features: Does it offer adequate security measures to protect your data?
- Mobile Access: Can you access the software from mobile devices?
- Customer Support: What level of customer support is available?
Understanding the Modules of Great Plains
Great Plains accounting software is modular, meaning you can choose the specific modules that best fit your business needs. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular modules:
- General Ledger: The core of the system, managing all financial transactions.
- Accounts Payable: Automates the process of paying vendors and managing invoices.
- Accounts Receivable: Streamlines the process of invoicing customers and collecting payments.
- Inventory Management: Tracks inventory levels, manages stock movements, and optimizes inventory costs.
- Sales Order Processing: Manages the entire sales order process, from order entry to fulfillment.
- Purchase Order Processing: Automates the process of creating and managing purchase orders.
- Manufacturing: Manages production planning, bill of materials, and shop floor control.
- Human Resources: Streamlines employee management, including hiring, onboarding, and performance reviews.
- Payroll: Automates payroll processing, including calculating wages, taxes, and deductions.
- Fixed Asset Management: Tracks and manages fixed assets, such as equipment and buildings.
Great Plains Deployment Options
You have several deployment options for Great Plains accounting software:
- On-Premise: Install and manage the software on your own servers.
- Cloud-Based: Host the software in the cloud, either through Microsoft Azure or a third-party provider.
- Hybrid: Combine on-premise and cloud-based deployment options.
The best deployment option for your business will depend on your specific needs and resources.
The Cost of Great Plains
The cost of Great Plains accounting software can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The number of users: The more users you have, the higher the cost.
- The modules you choose: The more modules you select, the higher the cost.
- The deployment option: Cloud-based deployments typically have a monthly subscription fee, while on-premise deployments require a one-time license fee.
- Implementation costs: You’ll need to factor in the cost of implementation, which can include consulting fees, training costs, and data migration expenses.
It’s important to get a detailed quote from a Microsoft Dynamics GP partner to understand the total cost of ownership.
Finding a Great Plains Partner
Implementing Great Plains accounting software is a complex process, so it’s essential to work with a qualified Microsoft Dynamics GP partner. A good partner can help you:
- Assess your business needs: Determine which modules are right for you.
- Implement the software: Configure the software to meet your specific requirements.
- Provide training: Train your employees on how to use the software.
- Offer ongoing support: Provide technical support and assistance.
Look for a partner with experience in your industry and a proven track record of successful implementations.
Alternatives to Great Plains
While Great Plains accounting software is a powerful solution, it’s not the only option available. Some popular alternatives include:
- NetSuite: A cloud-based ERP system that offers a wide range of features.
- Sage Intacct: Another cloud-based accounting software solution that’s popular with growing businesses.
- SAP Business One: An ERP system designed for small to medium-sized businesses.
- QuickBooks Enterprise: A more robust version of QuickBooks that offers advanced features.
It’s important to evaluate your options carefully and choose the software that best meets your specific needs.
The Future of Great Plains (Microsoft Dynamics GP)
Microsoft continues to support and update Dynamics GP, ensuring its relevance in the evolving business landscape. While Microsoft is heavily promoting Dynamics 365 Business Central as its flagship SMB ERP solution, Dynamics GP remains a viable option for many businesses, particularly those with existing investments in the platform. Microsoft is committed to providing ongoing support and updates for Dynamics GP, allowing businesses to continue leveraging its capabilities for years to come.
Making the Right Choice for Your Business
Choosing the right accounting software is a critical decision for any business. Great Plains accounting software, or Microsoft Dynamics GP, offers a comprehensive suite of features and benefits that can help you streamline your operations, improve efficiency, and make better decisions. However, it’s important to carefully evaluate your needs and consider all your options before making a decision. By understanding the features, benefits, and costs of Great Plains, you can determine whether it’s the right solution for your business. Take the time to research, consult with experts, and choose the software that will help you navigate the plains of business success.