The promise of robust functionality in an accounting solution doesn’t mean much if your team struggles to use it.
While Sage Intacct can be a solid enterprise solution, it can be overly complex and costly for mid-sized businesses. Limited customization may also make it less user-friendly.
This article highlights limitations users have mentioned and explains why Gravity Software is presented as a preferred Sage Intacct alternative.
Where Sage Intacct falls short for mid-sized, multi-company businesses
When it’s not feasible to have a direct conversation with other users of a particular software solution, reputable review sites like SoftwareAdvice or G2 can be useful. According to reviews on these sites, here are primary shortcomings of Sage Intacct for mid-sized, multi-entity businesses.
It’s a proprietary, legacy platform
- The platform was built more than two decades ago.
- Integration flexibility is limited.
- The shared-database model can hinder customization and scalability.
User experience challenges
Reviewers noted several usability issues that impact day-to-day productivity:
- User interface: “It does not have a fantastic visual aesthetic when navigating where other systems I have seen do tend to offer a sleeker user interface.” (G2)
- Confusing menus and long learning curves: “The learning curve is real. Definitely not something you just pick up in one day.” (SoftwareAdvice)
Example: Sage Intacct’s AP menu may contain ~25 options versus Gravity’s AP menu with only 9 options. - Deployment and onboarding timelines: “We had to give copious amounts of training to our teams.” (SoftwareAdvice)
Personalization limitations
- Users report difficulty personalizing Sage Intacct to match workflows, especially reporting.
- Some custom report features are not available at the entity level or require additional payment.
- Changing workflows after initial setup may require top-level access, limiting flexibility for administrators and users.
High and unexpected costs
- Hidden costs can include hosting fees, consultant fees, and charges for additional integrations.
- Some core functions (e.g., multi-currency support) may be add-ons rather than included.
- Reviews mention significant annual price increases and concerns about cost relative to usage, especially for smaller organizations.
AI and reporting tools are disconnected
- Not all advanced capabilities are native; invoice processing and some AI functions have been added via acquisitions or integrations.
- Integrations with tools like Power BI or Power Automate are possible but may require complex setup and troubleshooting.
- Reviewers report that integrating outside programs can be difficult and that API debugging is sometimes tricky.
Why Gravity Software is the ideal Sage Intacct alternative
For small- to medium-sized multi-entity businesses seeking ERP-like capabilities without enterprise complexity, Gravity Software is positioned as an alternative to Sage Intacct. Key differentiators include:
Built on the Microsoft Power Platform
- Native access to Dynamics 365 CRM, Power BI, Power Automate, and Microsoft Copilot.
- Core business essentials are available out of the box, with optional third-party integrations for niche needs.
- Continuous evolution with Microsoft ecosystem updates (e.g., Azure Cognitive Services for AI-powered AP automation) and automatic security updates.
One database per company
- Each entity operates with full autonomy unless changes are intentionally applied across entities.
- Users can access multiple entities with a single login and compile consolidated financial reports without relying on spreadsheets.
- Supports individualized dashboards, customized workflows, and role-based access by entity.
User-friendly, intuitive interface
- Designed for finance teams seeking power without clutter.
- Fewer menu items reduce information overload, speed onboarding, and improve daily productivity.
Embedded AI & automation
- Native AI and automation features such as Copilot and Azure Form Recognizer.
- Capabilities include natural-language searches, chart generation, and invoice data extraction—without relying on third-party add-ons.
Real-time reporting and dashboards
- Robust multi-entity capabilities provide organization-wide visibility for budgeting, forecasting, and consolidated reporting.
- Built-in Power BI visualizations enable faster, clearer decision-making.
Cost-effective, scalable licensing
- Core multi-entity accounting features are included in the annual subscription price, which also covers secure Microsoft cloud hosting.
- Specialty modules (e.g., revenue recognition, subscription billing) are optional—only purchase what you need.
- No surprise upgrade fees reported.
Real-world benefits for growing, multi-entity teams
Examples of measurable outcomes reported by Gravity clients:
- An eye care franchise reduced month-end close from 30+ days to under 15 days.
- A renewable energy company significantly reduced manual data entry hours across entities.
- WW of Maine gained real-time visibility after switching from Dynamics GP to avoid costly server upgrades.
- A 47-entity hospitality enterprise reduced intercompany settlement time from days to about 30 minutes.
- AP automation reduces invoice processing time from minutes to seconds.
Choose software that grows with you
Too much software can be as problematic as too little. For teams finding Sage Intacct too complex, too expensive, or too reliant on third-party integrations, modern, user-friendly alternatives are available.
Schedule a demo to evaluate whether Gravity Software is the right fit for your multi-entity accounting needs.
Gravity Software
Better. Smarter. Accounting.
