You need precision, expertise, and a partner who understands the unique complexities of your trade.
When it comes to Sage Intacct, a cloud-based financial management platform, the “best” reseller isn’t just about sales.
It’s about deep industry knowledge, impeccable implementation, and unwavering support that helps you optimize project costing, manage budgets, and ensure financial clarity.
The right reseller acts as your guide, transforming Intacct from a powerful tool into a strategic asset tailored to your construction business’s needs.
For a broader perspective on leading Sage resellers, you can explore more options at Best sage intacct resellers for construction.
Understanding the Landscape: Why a Specialized Reseller Matters
In the world of construction, every dollar, every hour, and every piece of material counts.
You’re dealing with intricate project lifecycles, stringent compliance requirements, and razor-thin margins. This isn’t a generic retail operation.
This is a sector where financial management software needs to do more than just balance the books.
It needs to integrate with project management, payroll, supply chain, and equipment tracking.
That’s why opting for a generalized Sage Intacct reseller simply won’t cut it.
A specialized reseller brings a nuanced understanding of:
Construction-Specific Modules and Integrations
Sage Intacct offers a robust core financial management system, but its real power for construction lies in its ability to integrate with industry-specific modules and third-party applications.
A top-tier reseller will guide you through these crucial integrations.
- Project Costing and Billing: This isn’t just about invoicing. It’s about tracking every nail, every hour of labor, and every subcontractor payment against specific projects. Accurate project costing is the backbone of profitability in construction. Resellers will demonstrate how Intacct’s project dimension capabilities allow for granular tracking.
- Subcontractor Management: From compliance to payment processing, managing subcontractors is a critical, often complex, task. A specialized reseller will show you how to leverage Intacct for efficient lien waiver tracking, compliance management, and automated payments, reducing administrative burden and risk.
- Equipment Management: Your heavy machinery and fleet are significant assets. Tracking their depreciation, maintenance, and allocation across projects is vital. Resellers can configure Intacct to integrate with equipment management systems, providing a holistic view of asset utilization and costs.
- Payroll Integration: Construction payroll often involves prevailing wages, union agreements, and complex labor distributions. Seamless integration with payroll systems like ADP or others is non-negotiable for accuracy and compliance.
- Bid and Proposal Management: While not a core Intacct function, a good reseller will discuss how Intacct’s financial data can feed into your bid management software, ensuring accurate cost estimations and stronger proposals.
According to a 2023 report by Dodge Data & Analytics, firms leveraging integrated construction management software reported a 15% average increase in project profitability and a 20% reduction in project delays. This highlights the tangible benefits of choosing a reseller who can unlock Intacct’s full integration potential for your construction business.
Deep Industry Knowledge and Best Practices
A truly “best” reseller doesn’t just know software. they know construction. Best free themes for wordpress
They understand the lifecycle of a project from conception to closeout, the challenges of cash flow management, and the nuances of revenue recognition for long-term contracts.
- Job Costing Methodologies: Whether you use percentage of completion, completed contract, or another method, a specialized reseller will understand the implications and ensure Intacct is configured to support your preferred accounting standards.
- Cash Flow Forecasting for Projects: Construction is notoriously cash-intensive. The ability to forecast cash flow accurately on a project-by-project basis is critical. Resellers will demonstrate how Intacct’s reporting and dashboard features can provide real-time insights into your financial health.
- Compliance and Reporting: From certified payroll to OSHA reporting and state-specific tax requirements, construction firms face a mountain of compliance. A reseller with industry experience will know how to configure Intacct to generate the necessary reports, saving you time and mitigating risk.
- Change Order Management: Change orders are an inevitable part of construction. Efficiently tracking, approving, and billing for these changes directly impacts profitability. Resellers will guide you on how to streamline this process within Intacct.
- Retainage Management: Understanding and correctly managing retainage is crucial for both accounts receivable and accounts payable in construction. An expert reseller will ensure Intacct handles these complexities seamlessly.
A recent survey by the Associated General Contractors of America AGC indicated that 68% of construction firms identified accurate job costing as their top financial management challenge. This underscores the need for a reseller who can expertly configure Intacct to address this specific pain point.
Key Attributes of the Best Sage Intacct Resellers for Construction
Identifying the “best” reseller goes beyond scanning a list of certified partners.
It requires a deeper dive into their capabilities, their approach, and their track record. Look for these critical attributes:
Proven Experience and Case Studies
Don’t just take their word for it. Demand proof.
The best resellers will have a robust portfolio of successful Sage Intacct implementations specifically within the construction sector.
- Number of Construction Clients: Ask about their client roster in construction. A reseller with dozens or hundreds of construction clients is likely to have encountered and solved a wide array of industry-specific challenges.
- Client Testimonials and References: Genuine testimonials and, even better, direct references from existing construction clients provide invaluable insights into their service quality and expertise.
- Detailed Case Studies: A good case study will outline the client’s original problems, the solutions implemented using Sage Intacct, and the quantifiable benefits achieved e.g., reduced closing times, improved project profitability, enhanced reporting accuracy. For instance, a case study might highlight how they helped a client reduce their monthly close from 15 days to 5 days, or improve their project cost variance reporting by 30%.
Data from Forrester Research suggests that firms that partner with experienced implementation specialists see a 25% faster ROI on their ERP investments compared to those who don’t.
Sage Intacct Certifications and Expertise
While experience is vital, formal certifications validate a reseller’s technical proficiency and commitment to the Sage Intacct platform.
- Advanced Certifications: Look for resellers with Sage Intacct’s highest levels of certification, such as “Construction Specialization” or “Advanced Financials Certified.” These indicate a comprehensive understanding of the platform’s capabilities.
- Dedicated Intacct Team: Ensure they have a dedicated team of consultants, not just one or two individuals, who are experts in Sage Intacct and its application in construction. This provides continuity and depth of knowledge.
- Product Development and Enhancements: Some top resellers even develop their own enhancements or vertical solutions on top of Sage Intacct, specifically designed to address unique construction industry needs. This demonstrates their deep commitment and innovation.
As of 2023, there are over 500 Sage Intacct partners globally, but only a fraction specialize deeply enough in construction to be considered “best.” Due diligence is key.
Comprehensive Implementation Methodology
Implementation is where the rubber meets the road. Best nlu software
A streamlined, well-defined methodology is crucial for a successful, on-time, and on-budget deployment.
- Discovery and Needs Assessment: The process should begin with a thorough understanding of your current processes, pain points, and future goals. This ensures the solution is perfectly tailored.
- Customization and Configuration: Construction companies often have unique workflows. The reseller should be adept at configuring Intacct to match your specific operational needs, including custom dimensions, reports, and dashboards.
- Data Migration Strategy: Moving financial data can be daunting. A top reseller will have a clear, secure plan for migrating your historical data from legacy systems into Sage Intacct, ensuring data integrity.
- User Training and Adoption: The best software is useless if your team can’t use it effectively. Comprehensive training programs, both initial and ongoing, are paramount. This includes hands-on sessions, user guides, and access to support resources.
- Post-Implementation Support: The relationship shouldn’t end after go-live. Look for robust post-implementation support, including help desks, dedicated account managers, and regular check-ins to ensure you’re maximizing your investment.
A study by Panorama Consulting Group found that ERP implementation failure rates can be as high as 50% when proper planning, customization, and user adoption strategies are neglected.
Robust Ongoing Support and Partnership
Your relationship with a reseller is a long-term partnership.
Excellent post-implementation support is non-negotiable.
- Tiered Support Options: From basic help desk support to dedicated technical account managers, flexible support options cater to varying needs and budgets.
- Response Times and SLAs: Understand their service level agreements SLAs for response times to critical issues. Prompt resolution of problems minimizes downtime and disruption.
- Community and Networking: Some resellers foster a community among their clients, providing opportunities for knowledge sharing and peer-to-peer support, which can be incredibly valuable.
- Roadmap Discussions: A good partner will discuss Sage Intacct’s product roadmap with you, helping you plan for future enhancements and ensure your system continues to meet your long-term strategic goals.
Clients who report high satisfaction with their ERP support providers typically experience 20% fewer system-related disruptions annually, directly impacting operational efficiency.
Transparent Pricing and Value Proposition
While cost is a factor, value should be the primary consideration.
Look for transparency in pricing and a clear articulation of the return on investment.
- Clear Cost Breakdown: Demand a detailed breakdown of all costs, including software licenses, implementation services, training, and ongoing support. Avoid hidden fees.
- Value-Based Pricing: The best resellers focus on the value they bring, not just the hours they bill. They should be able to articulate the quantifiable benefits you can expect, such as reduced administrative costs, improved decision-making, and increased project profitability.
- ROI Projections: A good reseller will help you build a business case and project the return on investment ROI for your Sage Intacct implementation, aligning the solution with your financial objectives.
- Phased Implementation Options: For larger or more complex organizations, some resellers offer phased implementation strategies, allowing you to roll out modules incrementally, manage cash flow, and achieve quicker wins.
According to a CFO.com survey, 42% of finance leaders cite “achieving clear ROI” as their top concern when investing in new financial technology.
Top Contenders: Who Are the Best Sage Intacct Resellers for Construction?
While the “best” is subjective and depends on your specific needs, several resellers consistently stand out for their deep expertise and strong track record in the construction industry.
These firms have built reputations on understanding construction challenges and delivering tailored Sage Intacct solutions. Best prm
AcuityCFO
AcuityCFO is frequently cited for its specialized focus on construction and real estate.
They offer a deep bench of financial and operational consultants who understand the nuances of project-based accounting.
- Key Strengths:
- Construction-Specific Templates: They often develop pre-configured templates and dashboards specifically for construction, accelerating implementation.
- Strong Financial Consulting Background: Their team often includes former CFOs and controllers with direct construction industry experience.
- Focus on Process Improvement: They emphasize optimizing workflows in addition to implementing software.
- Integration Prowess: Known for their ability to integrate Intacct with leading construction project management, bidding, and payroll solutions.
- Client Profile: Mid-sized to large general contractors, specialty contractors, and homebuilders.
- Notable Achievements: Often recognized by Sage Intacct for customer satisfaction and growth in specific vertical markets.
Net at Work
Net at Work is a comprehensive IT and business consulting firm that has a dedicated Sage Intacct practice with strong vertical expertise in construction.
They offer a broader range of services beyond just ERP.
* Holistic Approach: They can provide IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and other business solutions alongside Intacct implementation.
* Extensive Sage Ecosystem Knowledge: Deep understanding of the entire Sage product family, allowing for seamless transitions or integrations if you're coming from another Sage product.
* Large Consultant Base: A sizable team ensures breadth of expertise and capacity for complex projects.
* Proactive Client Management: Known for regular check-ins and strategic guidance post-implementation.
- Client Profile: Diverse range of construction firms, from smaller specialty contractors to larger enterprises looking for a comprehensive technology partner.
- Notable Achievements: Consistently recognized as a top Sage partner across various product lines.
BTerrell Group
BTerrell Group is known for its strong technical expertise and hands-on approach, particularly for companies seeking highly customized solutions and robust integrations.
* Technical Acumen: Highly skilled in complex integrations, custom reporting, and API development for Intacct.
* Deep Intacct Product Knowledge: They often contribute to discussions and best practices within the broader Intacct partner community.
* Responsive Support: Clients frequently commend their prompt and effective support.
* Focus on Data Analytics: Strong emphasis on leveraging Intacct's dimensional capabilities for powerful insights and dashboards.
- Client Profile: Growing construction companies with specific operational challenges that require a tailored financial solution.
- Notable Achievements: Frequently praised for their problem-solving capabilities and technical ingenuity.
Armanino LLP
As one of the largest independent accounting and consulting firms in the U.S., Armanino brings a unique blend of financial acumen and technology implementation expertise.
Their Sage Intacct practice is well-regarded, especially in vertical markets.
* Accounting Firm Perspective: They understand the financial and compliance challenges of construction from a CPA's viewpoint.
* Broad Industry Experience: While strong in construction, they also serve other complex industries, bringing diverse best practices.
* Scale and Resources: As a large firm, they have extensive resources for complex projects and ongoing support.
* Strategic Advisory Services: Beyond implementation, they offer strategic financial consulting, risk management, and tax advisory services.
- Client Profile: Mid-market to enterprise-level construction firms looking for a comprehensive strategic partner.
- Notable Achievements: Consistently rank among the top accounting and consulting firms nationally, with a strong technology consulting arm.
Wipfli
Wipfli is another major consulting firm with a dedicated technology practice, including a significant Sage Intacct presence.
They offer a breadth of services, from audit and tax to technology consulting.
* Integrated Services: Can offer a blend of accounting, tax, and technology services under one roof, providing a holistic solution.
* Industry Focus Groups: They often have dedicated industry specialists who focus solely on construction clients, understanding their unique needs.
* Change Management Expertise: Strong emphasis on change management to ensure smooth user adoption during and after implementation.
* Geographic Reach: A national presence allows them to serve clients across various regions.
- Client Profile: Mid-sized to large construction enterprises seeking a comprehensive partner for both their financial and technological needs.
- Notable Achievements: A long-standing reputation as a leading accounting and consulting firm with a growing technology solutions division.
Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and the “best” choice is always situational. It’s crucial to conduct your own due diligence, including interviews, reference checks, and detailed proposals from several contenders. Best infor consulting services
The Selection Process: Your Blueprint for Choosing a Reseller
Selecting the right Sage Intacct reseller for your construction business is as critical as selecting the right general contractor for your next major project.
A systematic approach will ensure you make an informed decision that drives long-term success.
Define Your Requirements
Before you even talk to a reseller, you need a clear understanding of your own needs.
- Current Pain Points: What are the biggest financial and operational headaches you’re currently experiencing? e.g., slow month-end close, inaccurate job costing, difficulty with compliance reporting, manual processes.
- Future Goals: What do you hope to achieve with Sage Intacct? e.g., real-time project profitability, streamlined subcontractor payments, better cash flow forecasting, improved decision-making.
- Budget: Establish a realistic budget for software licenses, implementation services, and ongoing support.
- Timeline: Define your desired timeline for implementation and go-live.
- Integration Needs: List all critical systems that need to integrate with Intacct e.g., project management software, payroll, CRM, estimating tools.
- Key Stakeholders: Identify who needs to be involved in the selection process from your team e.g., CFO, Project Managers, IT Director.
A survey by Gartner found that organizations that clearly define their ERP requirements before selection are 30% more likely to achieve project success.
Issue an RFP Request for Proposal
A well-structured RFP ensures you receive comparable proposals from multiple resellers, making evaluation much easier.
- Company Background: Provide a brief overview of your construction company, its size, project types, and current challenges.
- Scope of Work: Clearly outline the modules you need General Ledger, AP, AR, Project Costing, etc., desired integrations, and any specific customizations.
- Technical Requirements: Specify any technical considerations, such as cloud hosting preferences, data security needs, and existing IT infrastructure.
- Support and Training Needs: Detail your expectations for post-implementation support and user training.
- Evaluation Criteria: Inform resellers how their proposals will be judged e.g., experience, methodology, cost, cultural fit, references.
- Key Deliverables: Request specific deliverables in their proposal, such as a detailed project plan, estimated timeline, team structure, and a transparent cost breakdown.
Evaluate Proposals and Conduct Demos
Once you receive proposals, begin a rigorous evaluation process.
- Initial Screening: Narrow down the list based on how well they meet your core requirements and budget.
- Deep Dive Demos: Schedule personalized demos. Don’t let them show you generic Intacct features. Insist they demonstrate how Intacct will address your specific construction scenarios e.g., show me how to track retainage, how job costing works, how you handle change orders.
- Team Interviews: Meet the specific consultants who would be working on your project. Assess their industry knowledge, communication skills, and cultural fit.
- Reference Checks: This is non-negotiable. Call their construction clients and ask detailed questions about their experience with the reseller, including:
- Did they stay on budget and on schedule?
- Was their team knowledgeable about construction?
- How was their post-implementation support?
- Would you work with them again?
- Review Implementation Methodology: Ensure their approach aligns with your comfort level and risk tolerance. Do they prioritize user adoption? What’s their data migration strategy?
Negotiate and Contract
Once you’ve identified your top choice, enter into negotiations.
- Detailed Contract: Ensure the contract clearly outlines all services, deliverables, timelines, payment schedules, and support agreements. Pay close attention to change order processes and dispute resolution.
- Service Level Agreements SLAs: Formalize response times for support requests.
- Exit Strategy: While you hope for a long-term partnership, it’s prudent to understand the terms for ending the relationship if necessary.
The Long-Term Impact: Beyond Implementation
Choosing the right Sage Intacct reseller for construction isn’t just about getting the software up and running.
It’s about establishing a strategic partnership that helps your business continuously adapt, optimize, and grow in a dynamic industry.
Continuous Improvement and Optimization
- Regular System Reviews: A good reseller will suggest periodic reviews of your Intacct system to identify areas for optimization, leverage new features, or streamline existing processes.
- Performance Benchmarking: They can help you benchmark your financial performance against industry peers, identifying areas where Intacct can help you improve.
- Leveraging New Features: Sage Intacct releases updates and new features regularly. Your reseller should proactively inform you of relevant enhancements and help you implement them to your advantage.
- Advanced Analytics and Reporting: As your data accumulates, a partner can help you develop more sophisticated dashboards and reports, providing deeper insights into project profitability, operational efficiency, and overall financial health. For example, moving from basic project cost reports to predictive analytics on future cash flow.
A report by Deloitte indicated that companies that actively optimize their ERP systems post-implementation achieve an additional 10-15% efficiency gain within two years. Best free pdf editors
Strategic Planning and Growth
Your Sage Intacct system, powered by a knowledgeable reseller, can become a cornerstone of your strategic growth initiatives.
- Mergers and Acquisitions Support: If your growth strategy involves M&A, your reseller can assist in integrating new entities into your Intacct environment, ensuring seamless financial consolidation.
- Expansion into New Markets/Services: As you diversify, your Intacct system can be configured to support new business lines or geographic expansion, providing the financial visibility needed for informed decisions.
- Technology Roadmap: Your reseller can help you develop a long-term technology roadmap, ensuring your Intacct investment aligns with your broader business strategy and future technology needs. This includes exploring emerging technologies like AI/ML in financial forecasting.
Ultimately, the best Sage Intacct resellers for construction are not just vendors.
They are trusted advisors who understand your business, anticipate your needs, and empower you to build a stronger, more profitable future.
Choosing wisely means laying a solid financial foundation for every project to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Sage Intacct?
Sage Intacct is a cloud-based financial management software system designed to automate financial processes, improve financial reporting, and provide real-time insights into a company’s financial performance.
It’s known for its strong multi-entity and dimensional accounting capabilities.
Why is Sage Intacct a good fit for construction companies?
Sage Intacct is a good fit for construction companies due to its robust project accounting features, ability to track job costs, manage retainage, handle complex billing including percentage of completion, and integrate with other industry-specific solutions like project management, payroll, and estimating software.
Its dimensional accounting provides granular insights into project profitability.
What should I look for in a Sage Intacct reseller for construction?
Look for a reseller with deep industry experience in construction, proven case studies, strong Sage Intacct certifications, a comprehensive implementation methodology, and robust post-implementation support.
They should understand construction-specific challenges like job costing, retainage, and subcontractor management. Best infor xi consulting providers
How do Sage Intacct resellers typically charge for their services?
Resellers typically charge for Sage Intacct licenses which are subscription-based and then bill for their implementation services, training, and ongoing support.
Implementation services are often charged on a time-and-materials basis or as a fixed fee for specific scope.
Can Sage Intacct integrate with other construction software?
Yes, Sage Intacct is known for its open API, allowing it to integrate with a wide range of third-party construction software for project management, estimating, CRM, payroll, and more.
A good reseller will have experience facilitating these integrations.
What is the average implementation time for Sage Intacct in construction?
The average implementation time for Sage Intacct in construction varies significantly based on the size and complexity of your organization, the number of modules, and the level of customization needed.
It can range from 3-6 months for smaller, less complex implementations to 9-12+ months for large enterprises with extensive integration needs.
What kind of support can I expect from a Sage Intacct reseller after implementation?
Post-implementation support typically includes access to a help desk for technical issues, ongoing training, system optimization advice, and assistance with new feature adoption.
Many resellers offer tiered support plans to suit different needs and budgets.
Is Sage Intacct suitable for small construction companies?
While Sage Intacct is powerful, it is generally best suited for mid-sized to larger construction companies with complex financial needs and multiple projects.
Smaller companies might find its features to be more than they require, but its scalability means it can grow with them. Best genesys consulting services
How does Sage Intacct handle job costing for construction projects?
Sage Intacct handles job costing through its dimensional accounting structure, allowing you to tag every transaction expenses, revenues, payroll to specific projects, tasks, and cost codes.
This provides real-time visibility into the profitability of individual jobs.
What are the main benefits of using Sage Intacct for construction?
The main benefits include real-time financial visibility, improved cash flow management, accurate job costing, streamlined billing and invoicing, automated compliance reporting, enhanced decision-making through robust reporting, and reduced manual errors.
What is the difference between Sage Intacct and other Sage products like Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate?
Sage Intacct is a purely cloud-native financial management platform, offering modern architecture and continuous updates.
Sage 300 Construction and Real Estate CRE is a more traditional, on-premise or hosted solution specifically built for construction, with deeply integrated operational modules alongside financials.
The choice depends on your preference for cloud vs. on-premise, and the depth of integrated operational features you need.
How important are industry-specific certifications for a reseller?
Industry-specific certifications, especially those related to construction, are highly important.
They indicate that the reseller’s team has undergone specialized training and passed exams demonstrating their expertise in applying Sage Intacct to the unique challenges of the construction industry.
Can Sage Intacct help with managing retainage in construction?
Yes, Sage Intacct can effectively manage retainage.
It allows for the accurate tracking of both accounts receivable customer retainage and accounts payable subcontractor retainage, ensuring compliance and proper cash flow management. Best free painting software
What financial reports are common for construction companies using Sage Intacct?
Common reports include project profitability reports, work in progress WIP reports, percentage of completion revenue recognition, job cost variance reports, cash flow forecasts by project, and detailed general ledger reports by project dimension.
How does Sage Intacct support multi-entity construction businesses?
Sage Intacct excels in multi-entity management, allowing construction companies with multiple legal entities or joint ventures to consolidate financials, manage intercompany transactions, and produce consolidated reports seamlessly, all within a single system.
What kind of training does a good reseller provide for Sage Intacct?
A good reseller provides comprehensive training that includes initial user training tailored to specific roles, hands-on workshops, custom training manuals, and ongoing access to resources.
They often offer advanced training for administrators and power users.
How do I evaluate a reseller’s industry knowledge?
Evaluate their industry knowledge by asking for specific construction case studies, discussing their understanding of your unique business challenges e.g., specific project types, union requirements, equipment management, and by checking references from other construction clients.
What are the potential pitfalls of choosing the wrong Sage Intacct reseller?
Choosing the wrong reseller can lead to cost overruns, delayed implementation, a system that doesn’t fully meet your needs, lack of user adoption, ongoing support issues, and ultimately, a failure to realize the full ROI from your Sage Intacct investment.
Can Sage Intacct help with construction bidding and estimating?
While Sage Intacct is primarily a financial management system, the accurate historical cost data it collects job costing, labor costs, equipment costs is invaluable for informing and refining future bids and estimates.
Many construction companies integrate Intacct with dedicated estimating software.
What is the role of dimensional accounting in Sage Intacct for construction?
Dimensional accounting is crucial for construction because it allows you to analyze financial data across various business dimensions, such as projects, jobs, tasks, locations, departments, and even specific types of costs.
This provides unparalleled granularity for reporting and analysis, giving you deep insights into every aspect of your construction operations. Best free pdf editor
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