As a business owner, it is crucial to have accounting software that can help you streamline your financial processes and enable better business decisions. One of the more popular accounting platforms on the market today is Sage Accounting Software. In this article we will provide a comprehensive review of Sage Accounting Software, including its pros and cons.
Pros of Sage Accounting Software
There are many advantages of Sage that you should be aware of, from a comprehensive list of features to multi-currency support. Let’s take a look.
User-Friendly Interface
Sage Accounting Software has a user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for those who are not accounting experts. The dashboard provides an overview of the financial health of your business, including cash flow, income and expenses. The software also provides customisable reports that allow users to analyse their financial data in different ways.
Comprehensive Features
Sage provides a range of features that cover all the essential accounting tasks, including invoicing, inventory management, bank reconciliation and financial reporting. The software also integrates with other business applications, such as payment processors and e-commerce platforms, making it a versatile tool for managing different aspects of your business.
Cloud-Based Access
Sage Accounting Software is cloud-based which means users can access their financial data from anywhere with an internet connection. You can monitor unpaid invoices on your phone while drinking your morning coffee. This feature makes it easy for businesses with remote employees or multiple locations to access and update financial records in real-time.
Multi-Currency Support
Sage supports multiple currencies making it ideal for businesses that operate in different countries. The software automatically converts currencies and provides exchange rate updates, making it easy for businesses to manage transactions across borders. If you run an ecommerce store selling online into different countries, this could be a handy feature.
Excellent Customer Support
Sage Accounting Software provides excellent customer support through various channels, including phone, email, and live chat. The company also provides a comprehensive knowledge base and video tutorials online that users can access for self-help.
Cons of Sage Accounting Software
Every accounting software has a downside. Let’s take a look at some of the more noticeable issues that users have with Sage.
Limited Automation
While Sage Accounting Software provides a range of features, it does not have advanced automation capabilities like some other accounting software options. For instance, the software does not offer automatic billing or automatic payment reminders, which can be time-consuming for businesses with a high volume of transactions.
Limited Customisation Options
Sage provides some customisation options but they are limited compared to other accounting software options. For instance, users cannot create custom fields or custom reports, which may limit their ability to analyse financial data in the way they want.
Pricing
When compared to some of the other popular accounting software options in the market, Sage comes up a little wanting. While the software provides a range of features, the higher price tag may be a barrier for small businesses with limited budgets.
Limited Integrations
While Sage Accounting Software integrates with some business applications it does have limited integrations compared to some of its competitors.
Limited Mobile App Functionality
Sage Accounting Software has a mobile app that allows users to access their financial data on-the-go. However, the app has limited functionality compared to the desktop version, and users cannot perform advanced accounting tasks like creating custom reports or managing inventory.
What is the difference between Sage and QuickBooks?
One of Sage’s main competitors is QuickBooks. Here’s a brief comparison of the two across their main features.
| Feature | Sage Accounting Software | QuickBooks Accounting Software |
| Ease of Use | User-friendly interface. Easy to navigate | User-friendly interface. Easy to navigate |
| Pricing | Relatively expensive. Offers subscription-based pricing | Affordable. Offers a range of pricing plans |
| Customisation | Limited customisation options. Does not allow for custom reports | Advanced customisation options. Allows for custom reports |
| Automation | Limited automation capabilities. Does not offer automatic billing or payment reminders | Advanced automation capabilities. Offers automatic billing and payment reminders |
| Multi-Currency Support | Offers multi-currency support | Offers multi-currency support |
| Mobile App | Limited functionality on mobile app | Offers a robust mobile app with advanced functionality |
| Integrations | Limited integrations with other business applications | Offers a wide range of integrations with other business applications |
| Customer Support | Offers excellent customer support through various channels | Offers customer support through various channels |
Overall, is Sage accounting software easy to use?
Yes, Sage accounting software is generally considered easy to use, even for those who are not accounting experts. The software has a user-friendly interface that allows users to navigate through different features and functions with ease.
Additionally, Sage provides a range of tutorials, guides, and customer support to help users learn how to use the software effectively. However, the ease of use may depend on the user’s familiarity with accounting concepts and their level of comfort with using software.
Overall, Sage accounting software is designed to be intuitive and straightforward, making it accessible to users of all skill levels.
How to choose the right software for your business
Overall, Sage Accounting Software is an excellent choice for businesses that require a versatile and user-friendly accounting software solution but it may not be suitable for those with advanced accounting needs or limited budgets.
If you’re looking for the perfect online accounting solution contact us at Around Finance. As a leading online accountant in Ireland we can advise you on the right solution for your needs, get you set up and help you manage your finances.
FAQs
What are the negatives of Sage?
Sage accounting software has some potential negatives, including limited automation and customisation options, high pricing compared to other accounting software, limited integrations with other business applications, limited mobile app functionality, and a potential learning curve for those unfamiliar with accounting concepts and software.
Which software is best for accounting?
With so many great options, which accounting software is best for your business? When choosing, take into account factors such as the size of your business, the industry you operate in and your specific accounting needs. For further advice, contact our team at Around Finance.
