As ERP consultants that work with Microsoft Dynamics GP we see that many customers are using the built-in report writer for their Microsoft Dynamics GP financial reporting tool called Microsoft Dynamics Management Reporter. While this reporting tool offers some great out-of-the-box features, many third-party reporting tools are available to give finance departments the ability to create customized templates. These customization capabilities can be used to easily create and quickly deliver critical real-time reports from Microsoft Dynamics GP data. A smart and strategic management team often uses this data to understand the past, current and future state of the company. Customized financial reports help management make informed decisions that helps move the business forward.
3 Points to Consider when Selecting a Microsoft Dynamics GP Financial Reporting Tool
There are several points to consider when searching for a third-party report writer to work with Microsoft Dynamics GP. Some things to think about are; What data source access options are available? Is a web-based or mobile platform available? How easy is will it be for your users to learn?
- Data access is a one important factor to consider. Does the reporting tool pull data from a data warehouse or proprietary source, or does it run reports live from Dynamics GP for real-time analysis? A live integration mean that data doesn’t need to be replicated to a separate database (an additional expense), but depending on how many users are running queries performance might be affected. Management Reporter, Solver’s BI360 and BizNet all offer live integrations to Dynamics GP.
- Consider Excel-based report writers. Some software vendors argue that Excel is unsecure, and is generally too much trouble when it comes to linking and maintaining spreadsheets. Many financial types have been using Excel since their very first job; Excel’s infrastructure and formulas are rooted deeply within the financial world. Excel-based report writers are also add-ons with enhancements that allow for greater collaboration, security and financial functions. BI360 and BizNet both offer Excel add-ons that are easy for employees to learn.
- Does your operation need a mobile solution? If your company does business around the globe (or even around the clock) you may want to select a product with web-based reporting modules. Mobile reporting will continue to improve as Business Intelligence software manufacturers race to provide these products. Web-based reporting is paving the way for mobile as more workers use smartphones to access office applications and providers that already have a web component are likely to be the leaders in the mobile revolution for accounting.
A flexible, customizable and robust reporting tool is essential for any business that wants to grow into a mature, competitive organization. Understanding the different features and options will make it easier to choose one that’s right for your company.
If you need help selecting and implementing the right BI tools for your organization, contact us at AccountNet. Call us at (212) 244-9009, or via our website, if you’d like a free phone consultation to discuss your business’s unique reporting needs.
Another version of this blog was posted on Accountnet's blog on 6/27/2014 : http://www.accountnet.com/selecting-financial-reporting-tools-ms-dynamics-gp/