- ERP, NetSuite, Sage 200, Sage Intacct
Cloud-based accounting software has made it easier than ever for small businesses and start-ups to get up and running quickly. Tools like Xero offer an accessible, intuitive platform that provides automation and financial visibility from the start.
But just as businesses evolve, so too must the systems that support them.
At Noledge, we’ve supported many organisations whose journey began with entry-level platforms like Xero. In the early days, it served them well. However, as their operations expanded, they began to encounter limitations that slowed efficiency, reduced visibility, and introduced unnecessary complexity. Eventually, it became clear that a more advanced, scalable ERP accounting system was the right next step.
This isn’t about criticising Xero – it’s a fantastic product for its intended audience. Rather, it’s about recognising when it has reached its limit for your business needs and making the move towards a platform that can match your growth.
When good software stops being a good fit
Xero is designed to meet the needs of small businesses, offering straightforward accounting tools that are quick to implement and easy to use. However, it was never built to handle the demands of more complex, multi-entity or multi-jurisdiction operations.
As your organisation grows, you may find yourself patching holes in processes with spreadsheets, third-party add-ons, and manual workarounds. This often leads to:
– Increased manual data entry
– Greater potential for human error
– Slower and less accurate reporting
– Limited access to real-time financial insights
– Frustration across finance and leadership teams
Some of the most common triggers for re-evaluating Xero include:
– Expansion into new markets or regions
– The need to manage multiple legal entities
– Operating internationally with multi-currency requirements
– Increased compliance or regulatory demands
– The need for deeper automation and advanced reporting
At a certain point, the software that once supported your business can start to hold it back.
The moment of transition: What comes next?
A concern we often hear from clients is: “We know we’ve outgrown Xero – but what’s the best next step?”
This is exactly where the Noledge team comes in.
We work with finance teams and decision-makers to assess their current challenges, identify operational bottlenecks, and recommend an ERP accounting system that can meet both immediate needs and long-term ambitions.
With expertise in implementing Sage Intacct and NetSuite, we help businesses make the transition with clarity and confidence.
And importantly – upgrading your financial system doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Both Sage Intacct and NetSuite are industry-leading cloud ERP solutions, built to deliver automation, scalability, and deep visibility. Each, however, offers its own unique strengths.
Sage Intacct
Sage Intacct is particularly suited to service-based organisations, not-for-profits, and companies with complex multi-entity structures. Key benefits include:
• Real-time dashboards and reporting for faster insights
• Automated approval processes and workflow management
• Inbuilt compliance and audit support
• Strong multi-currency and consolidation capabilities
• Easy integration with existing business tools
NetSuite
NetSuite is often the preferred choice for product-based businesses or those managing complex supply chains. It offers:
• End-to-end financial management, CRM, and inventory control
• Efficient order-to-cash and procure-to-pay processes
• Advanced multi-location and multi-subsidiary consolidation
• A single, unified source of business truth across all functions
Choosing between the two depends on your industry, business model, and long-term objectives.
Four signs you’ve outgrown Xero
If you’re unsure whether you’ve reached the point of transition, look for these warning signs:
1. You operate across multiple legal entities or currencies
2. You rely on spreadsheets to fill gaps in reporting
3. You can’t access up-to-date financial data instantly
4. Your reporting or automation needs have surpassed Xero’s capabilities
If any of these apply, it’s worth exploring a more capable ERP accounting system.
We’re not just ERP providers – we become an extension of your team. Our approach ensures you’re supported throughout the entire transition process, from initial consultation to post-implementation training.
We offer:
• ERP recommendations tailored to your organisation’s structure and goals
• Industry-informed best practice guidance
• End-to-end project delivery and support
• Staff onboarding and training to ensure adoption
As accredited Sage and NetSuite partners, we understand the challenges growing UK businesses face when moving away from entry-level accounting platforms.
Looking Beyond Entry-Level Accounting Software
In today’s fast-changing business environment, staying on a platform that no longer meets your needs can restrict growth and adaptability. Your accounting system should act as a driver of business performance, not an obstacle.
At Noledge, we help organisations choose and implement the right ERP accounting system to support growth – whether you’re certain Xero is no longer the right fit or you’re simply exploring your options.
Contact us to arrange a consultation and discover how Sage or NetSuite can equip your business with the tools it needs to thrive.
About the Author
Roger Gribbin
Roger Gribbin is an IT professional with over 25 years of experience in various roles, involving assisting customers with selection projects for ERP, CRM, and BI, as well as hands-on implementation and project management in medium-sized organisations in Ireland. He currently serves as the Sales Director for the Noledge Group.