Using a Modern ERP to Gain the
Interoperability You Need

By: | Category: ERP

As organizations grow, the need for interconnected systems becomes essential. However, many businesses, especially in complex sectors like healthcare and nonprofit, find themselves struggling with systems that just don’t talk to each other. This lack of interoperability can prevent teams from getting the data they need in real time.

Why Interoperability Matters for Mission-Driven Organizations

Interoperability isn’t just a buzzword, it’s a strategic advantage. Seamless data sharing across departments, systems, and applications empowers organizations to make smarter decisions without delay. For industries like healthcare and nonprofit, where every dollar and data point counts, interoperability is essential for compliance, patient safety, and operational transparency.

Consider a nonprofit that needs to track grant funds and transparently report restricted and unrestricted funds to donors. Without interoperability, the finance, operations, and fundraising teams may find themselves duplicating data entry across multiple systems, risking errors and wasting time. Similarly, a healthcare provider might struggle when patient billing data is siloed between financial, operational, and electronic health record (EHR) systems. When these systems work together, the entire process becomes more efficient.

Key Benefits of a Modern ERP for Interoperability

Using a modern ERP like Sage Intacct provides several key advantages:

  • Data Accuracy and Reduced Errors: When all systems are connected, information flows freely and accurately across departments, reducing manual data entry and the potential for human error. In healthcare, for instance, this could mean fewer billing errors and better patient care because accurate financial data is available instantly.
  • Improved Efficiency: Interoperability means that staff no longer have to waste time toggling between platforms to gather essential information. For nonprofits, this translates to more time spent on mission-driven activities and less on data reconciliation.
  • Enhanced Compliance and Reporting: A modern ERP simplifies audit trails and grant reporting, providing up-to-date information for regulatory compliance. With all data centralized, organizations can confidently manage their finances and prepare for audits, no matter how complex the requirements.
  • Cost Savings and ROI: By reducing IT maintenance costs, minimizing error-related expenses, and boosting employee productivity, a modern ERP can yield significant savings. The investment in interoperability often pays for itself in terms of time and resources saved.

How Sage Intacct Supports Interoperability

Sage Intacct is designed with interoperability in mind, offering features that facilitate seamless integration with your organization’s essential tools:

  • Open APIs and Integration Options: Sage Intacct’s open APIs make it easy to integrate with commonly used applications. This flexibility means you can continue using your favorite tools while gaining the benefits of a unified ERP system. In healthcare, this might include integrations with EHR and other patient management systems. For nonprofits, popular integrations could include donor management or grant tracking tools.
  • Modular Structure for Tailored Solutions: Sage Intacct allows organizations to choose only the modules they need, making it a customizable, scalable solution that grows alongside your organization.

Real-World Use Cases

W.E. Upjohn Institute for Employment Research

Facing inefficiencies with a 20-year-old system, the Upjohn Institute chose Sage Intacct for its automation and cloud access. The switch eliminated manual tasks, improved reporting, and empowered teams with real-time data. ‘Sage Intacct helps us do a better job of supporting our mission,’ says Kathy Breyfogle, CFO.

Hawaii Dental Service

Hawaii Dental Service (HDS) transitioned to Sage Intacct to modernize its financial management. The switch enhanced efficiency, with automated reporting saving 12 hours monthly. ‘We couldn’t go back to our old system now,’ says Cara Numasaki, Controller.

Getting Started with a Modern ERP: Key Considerations

Adopting a new ERP is a big decision, and it’s important to choose a solution that aligns with your organization’s needs. Here are a few factors to keep in mind as you evaluate your current systems:

  • Evaluate Your Current System’s Limitations: Where are the barriers in your current workflow? Are there frequent errors or inefficiencies caused by disconnected systems?
  • Consider Industry-Specific Needs: Some ERPs are better suited to particular industries. Sage Intacct, for example, offers functionalities tailored to nonprofits and healthcare providers.
  • Think Scalability: Your organization’s needs may change as you grow. A modern ERP like Sage Intacct can scale with your operations, ensuring you’ll have the tools and integration capabilities you need in the future.

Ready to see how Sage Intacct can meet your specific needs? Contact us for a demo and discover how a modern ERP can help you achieve the interoperability your organization needs.