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SAP Business ByDesign v Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

3 min read

Phoebe Adshead
Phoebe Adshead key responsibilities lie in marketing; ensuring that businesses are aware of the products, services and expertise available from The HBP Group.

Accounting software allows for simple, fast data entry and retrieval, fewer human errors and the automation of many business processes. Most businesses have online accounting systems, with many opting for cloud hosting now given its easy access and added security. But now, businesses are wanting more from their accounting software and choosing the right one for your business should be a carefully thought out decision.

Here’s our verdict of when to choose SAP Business ByDesign versus Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, alongside a comparison of the different features, usability, reporting, integration capabilities and costs.

About SAP Business ByDesign & Business Central

SAP Business ByDesign
SAP Business ByDesign is a cloud-based, subscription ERP software designed for mid-market companies. With flexible business processes designed on best practices, it’s designed to provide access to accurate, real-time data.

  • A modular ERP solution – meaning you can bespoke your package to your businesses needs with add-ons.
  • Integration – enabling staff to work from a single source of finance, sales and customer data.
  • Report with accuracy – drill down into the underlying details to understand the impact to your business.
  • Business information – improve business performance with some real-time metrics.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

A single, comprehensive solution that drives predictive insights and consistent reporting and allows you to make smarter decisions faster. Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central provides powerful accounting and supply chain management functionality to small and medium-sized businesses.

  • A complete ERP solution without different sections or modules – manage financials, sales, service, and operations in one place.
  • In the cloud – you can securely access any of your data in real-time through any device with the internet; mobile, tablet and desktop.
  • Powerful reporting – easy reporting on essential business operations, such as trends, profits and sales with graphs and reports.
  • Full integration capabilities – create quotes, process orders and submit invoices without leaving Outlook AND access live data from Excel.

Key Features of SAP Business ByDesign and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Depending on what your business needs from your accounting software, the key features you require will vary depending on those needs. Here are some of the key features for both SAP Business ByDesign and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central.

Access & Usability

SAPBBD Access and Usability

Invoicing

SAPBBD Invoicing

Expenses & Bills

SAPBBD Expenses & Billing

Reporting capabilities 

SAPBBD Reporting

Integration & Add-Ons

SAPBBD Integrations

Price Comparison

Prices accurate as of 2022.

SAPBBD Pricing


When to Choose SAP Business ByDesign and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

Both SAP Business ByDesign and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central are excellent ERP systems when it comes to easily managing finances across the business and on-the-go. They are both powerful tools when it comes to budgeting and forecasting and implementing workflows to enhance efficiency. Which one to choose ultimately comes down to whether you are seeking an ERP that can grow as you do with paid add-ons, or one that comes with all the bells and whistles from the outset.

Here’s a quick summary of when to choose SAP Business ByDesign versus Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central:

When to choose SAP Business ByDesign

  • You want a scalable solution where you can add functionality as the business grows, paying for what you need
  • You don’t need external access for a third-party Accountant, or you’re willing to pay for the option
  • You only need basic customisation options for user roles
  • You need localisation capabilities as an add-on


When to choose Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central

  • You want a platform that can connects not only accounts but sales, service, finance, and operations
  • You need powerful integration capabilities to streamline business process, like the option to action invoices and orders straight from Outlook
  • Powerful reporting from the Dashboard, without the need to run individual reports
  • Personalisation is made easy without the need to pay for bespoke development