8.3
Editor’s Rating:
Best Overall
NetSuite ERP: Home Screen
NetSuite ERP
  • Hundreds of third-party add-ons available
  • Feature sets for multiple industries
  • Highly customizable
8.2
Editor’s Rating:
Best Multi-Dimensional Reporting
Sage Intacct: CFO Dashboard
Sage Intacct
  • Multidimensional reporting capabilities
  • Scalability for multi-entity support and user growth
  • Simple and responsive user interface
7.5
Editor’s Rating:
Best for Small Businesses
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Advanced Sales Report
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise
  • More advanced inventory features than other QuickBooks versions
  • Higher record capacity than other QuickBooks versions
  • Includes payroll and employee management

Architecture accounting software is a financial management tool designed to integrate project management, time tracking, billing, and reporting. We used our advanced review methodology to review top solutions for architects, city planners, and project managers.

1 NetSuite - Best Overall

Why We Chose It: NetSuite earned the top spot on our list because it’s highly customizable for growing architecture firms. NetSuite offers SuiteApp in addition to its core ERP, which has hundreds of third-party apps that help businesses scale up when they outgrow the base functions. One example is Contivio, a cloud contact center built for NetSuite that heightens CRM by having real-time reporting and statistics during customer calls.

These apps and NetSuite’s core ERP functionalities enable quick time entry for efficient accounting. We found the financial management feature is advanced in analyzing finances and business performance, allowing for efficient financial processes. Another great module is project management. This module tracks projects and improves project completion, though it does cost extra. The cloud-based system caters to architects who need real-time data while on the go, with all of its accounting in one place.

Best Overall:
NetSuite ERP
★★★★★
★★★★★
(28)

NetSuite ERP: Home Screen
NetSuite ERP: Income Statement
NetSuite ERP: Journal
NetSuite ERP: Unrealized Exchange Rate Gains and Losses
NetSuite ERP: Ecommerce Customer Statistics
NetSuite ERP: Sales Orders
NetSuite ERP: Revenue Recognition
What We Like
Hundreds of third-party add-ons available
Feature sets for multiple industries
Highly customizable
What We Don’t Like
Must schedule a consult for pricing details
Tedious setup
Difficult to build reports
Overview
Price Range: $$$$
Starting Price: $99/user/month
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

2 Sage Intacct - Best Multi-Dimensional Reporting

Why We Chose It: Sage Intacct is high on our list because its core package offers solid multi-dimensional reporting. This allows companies with multiple projects to stay organized and customize their reporting. Sage Intacct also has a user-friendly interface and functionality. The more straightforward functionality reduces the learning curve, allowing quicker software adaptation.

Its core accounting package stands out, automating accounting tasks such as order management, purchasing, and invoicing. It is a cloud-based software that provides scalability as businesses grow, with add-ons like project accounting, costing, and billing.

Best Multi-Dimensional Reporting:
Sage Intacct
★★★★★
★★★★★
(46)

Sage Intacct: CFO Dashboard
Sage Intacct: Executive Dashboard
Sage Intacct: Contract Journal Balances
Sage Intacct: Project Financial Summary
What We Like
Multidimensional reporting capabilities
Scalability for multi-entity support and user growth
Simple and responsive user interface
What We Don’t Like
Budgeting and interactive reporting cost extra
Limited non-financial functionalities
Volume exports can be difficult
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Starting Price: $8,580/year
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

3 Quickbooks Enterprise - Best for Small Businesses

Why We Chose It: We like Quickbooks Enterprise best for small businesses because of its affordability and effective ERP package. Quickbooks Enterprise is a versatile ERP with over 200 industry-specific integration apps, including ones from the architecture field. Specifically, Factor is an effective project management app that caters to architecture firms. Apps like Factor can help a growing business reach its goals by quickly meshing an architecture application with Quickbooks’s strong ERP, providing an all-in-one solution.

We found QuickBooks Enterprise effective as a business management tool, going beyond basic accounting functionalities. Features like bookkeeping automation help small businesses become more efficient by automating tedious tasks like sorting business expenses and categorizing transactions. Quickbooks Enterprise offers cloud-based and on-premises options, with the cloud-based option being an annual subscription.

Best for Small Businesses:
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise
★★★★★
★★★★★
(43)

QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Advanced Sales Report
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Profit And Loss Viewing
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Price Rule Editing
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Sales Orders Viewing
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Inventory Information Page
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Advanced Role Editing
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Add New Role
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Inventory Viewing
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Business Dashboard
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Inventory Dashboard
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Company Snapshot
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Payroll
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Income Tracker
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Credit Card Entry
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Company Preference Pane
QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise: Batch Invoices
What We Like
More advanced inventory features than other QuickBooks versions
Higher record capacity than other QuickBooks versions
Includes payroll and employee management
What We Don’t Like
Most expensive version of QuickBooks
Requires annual contracts
Windows only
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Starting Price: $199/month
Client OS: Windows
Deployment: Cloud or On-Premises

4 Unanet AE - Best Project Management

Why We Chose It: Unanet AE is a top option for architects, primarily due to its project management features. Its project central feature is advanced for planning and executing projects efficiently with better organization. Processes include creating project records, EVM tracking, project accounting controls, and more. Unanet AE is best suited for established architecture businesses that require streamlined project management.

Unanet AE includes built-in CRM capabilities, ensuring the business can have top customer service without installing or adding alternative CRM software. Its CRM capabilities are highlighted by its prospect management module, which features interactive maps for visualizing potential projects and helps turn them into clients. Additionally, its time and expense dashboard has desktop and mobile viewing, which makes billing and time-tracking more efficient.

Best Project Management:
Unanet ERP AE
★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)

Unanet ERP AE: Dashboard Analytics
Unanet ERP AE: Time Tracking
Unanet ERP AE: Invoicing
Unanet ERP AE: Accounts Receivable
Unanet ERP AE: Approver
Unanet ERP AE: Time Sheets
Unanet ERP AE: Expense Sheets
What We Like
Easy to migrate from Deltek to Unanet
User-friendly for making modifications
Fast performance and connection
What We Don’t Like
Requires consult call for pricing
No capability for billing daily rate invoices
Limited reporting support for vendors and customers
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Client OS: Windows
Deployment: Cloud or On-Premises

5 BQE Core - Another Great Option

Why We Chose It: BQE Core is a good option for architecture businesses because of its strong focus on features that can enhance project revenue and efficiency. BQE Core is designed by industry experts specifically for professional services, including architecture and engineering businesses. BQE Core integrates project accounting and management tools, which can be helpful for managers who lack business expertise.

This entirely cloud-based software has a user-friendly interface with a modern look and an all-in-one design, allowing intuitive navigation between tasks. We also like their reporting feature, which has customizable dashboards to track different processes. Furthermore, there are free native mobile apps for Android and iPhone so businesses can access data from their phones.

Another Great Option:
BQE CORE
★★★★★
★★★★★
(62)

BQE CORE: Project Dashboard
BQE CORE: 360 View
BQE CORE: Reporting and Analytics
BQE CORE: Time Card Entry
What We Like
Billing, time and expenses tracking by project phase
Employees can input time entry from anywhere
Great for project management
What We Don’t Like
Can’t save edited standard reports for future use
Forecasting reports
Separate invoice per phase to QBO
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Client OS: Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

6 Xero

Why We Chose It: Xero is a leading ERP software for small architecture businesses. It offers online invoicing, bank connections, and project tracking features, which help make accounting processes more efficient. Integrations with third-party payroll and time-tracking tools will scale as a business grows.

Xero is a cost-effective software, which is also why it is ideal for independent architects or growing businesses. The Early plan starts at $15 a month. However, project tracking is only available in the Established plan at $78 monthly.

Xero
★★★★★
★★★★★
(3)

Xero: Dashboard
Xero: New Draft Project Information Page
Xero: Short-Term Cash Flow Projection Page
Xero: Bank Account Information Adding Page
Xero: Advanced Accounting Page
Xero: Contacts Page
Xero: Dashboard
Xero: Expenses
What We Like
Basic inventory management capabilities
Free trial available and no setup fees
Navigable, user-friendly interface
What We Don’t Like
Hard to get phone support (email is more frequent)
Limited to 2,000 transactions per month
No “paid” notification alerts
Overview
Price Range: $$
Starting Price: $15/month
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

7 Dynamics 365 Business Central

Why We Chose It: Dynamics 365 Business Central is a good option for firms considering a complete ERP system. We like its consistent interface with Office 365 apps like Word and Outlook, which many businesses are already familiar with. This combination makes learning the platform more accessible than other software with entirely new interfaces.

Dynamics 365 Business Central combines ERP and CRM in its essentials package. However, its CRM module lacks deep insights like customer journey mapping. We recommend this software for small to mid-level businesses, as its ERP package can help improve financial performance and get them to the next level.

Dynamics 365 Business Central
★★★★★
★★★★★
(11)

Dynamics 365 Business Central: Dashboard
Dynamics 365 Business Central: Items Viewing List
Dynamics 365 Business Central: Orders Viewing
Dynamics 365 Business Central: General Leger Entries
Dynamics 365 Business Central: Dashboard
Dynamics 365 Business Central: Customer Management
What We Like
Combined ERP and CRM
Similar interface to MS Word and Outlook
Integrations with Microsoft applications
What We Don’t Like
Not ideal for complex manufacturing needs
May require extensive training
No free version
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Starting Price: $70/user/month
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud or On-Premises

8 AccountingSuite

Why We Chose It: AccountingSuite made our list because it offers a flexible ERP package that can be tailored to specific businesses, including architecture. After meeting with the developers for a live demonstration of AccountingSuite, we like its effective inventory management system that makes tasks like tracking inventory and processing orders, sales, and returns faster. AccountingSuite is ideal for small to mid-level accounting businesses looking to upgrade to gain efficiency with lots of inventory.

AccountingSuite is a cloud-based ERP that allows access to real-time data from any computer but does not have a mobile app, which limits access. We found their Start Up plan worth mentioning, including a project and time tracking module for a low $19 monthly fee. However, their inventory management system is only included in their “Professional” package at $55 per month.

CustomBooks
★★★★★
★★★★★
(11)

CustomBooks: Home Page
CustomBooks: Create Quote
CustomBooks: Create Purchase Order
What We Like
Includes inventory management and time tracking
No costs beyond subscription fee
Use multiple modules at once via tabs
What We Don’t Like
Crowded user interface
No mobile app
Less efficient with high volume of transactions
Overview
Price Range: $$
Starting Price: $19/month
Client OS: Web
Deployment: Cloud Hosted

9 Deltek Vantagepoint

Why We Chose It Deltek Vantagepoint made our list because it combines strong ERP capabilities with project management features. Its core ERP contains features like customizable dashboards, which businesses can tailor to their needs. Also, its interactive billing tool speeds up the payment process and improves cash flow.

We also like its project management module, which gives architecture companies more control over their operations. Its project command center feature enables companies to have greater visibility and tracking while monitoring potential risks. We recommend Deltek Vantagepoint for mid to large-sized architecture companies that outgrow less comprehensive software.

Deltek Vantagepoint
★★★★★
★★★★★
(2)

Deltek Vantagepoint: Activity Adding Page
Deltek Vantagepoint: Project Status Page
Deltek Vantagepoint: Revenue Analysis Page
Deltek Vantagepoint: Resource Utilization By Organization Report
Deltek Vantagepoint: Employee Utilization
Deltek Vantagepoint: Employee Timesheet
Deltek Vantagepoint: Column Selector in Utilization Report
Deltek Vantagepoint: Dashboard View
Deltek Vantagepoint: Report Designer Geo Performance
Deltek Vantagepoint: Project Phase Planning
Deltek Vantagepoint: Project Phase Task Hours
Deltek Vantagepoint: Employee Search
Deltek Vantagepoint: Performance Report Designer
What We Like
Offers detailed project view and financial analysis
Supports complex and diverse billing requirements
Provides multi-currency support
What We Don’t Like
Some users find interface difficult to navigate
Auto-save feature increases clicks required to complete tasks
Expense platform layout could be more streamlined
Overview
Price Range: $$$
Client OS: Windows, Web
Deployment: Cloud or On-Premises

Architecture firms have very specific accounting requirements. Work is typically done on a project basis. Usually, billing is primarily a function of time. Architects also work very closely with clients to meet expectations and managing communication is critical. With numerous different accounting software options available, it’s important to find the right package to meet your particular requirements.

Key Features

The best accounting software for architects typically includes:

Key Feature Explanation
Project Cost Tracking Enables architects to monitor all expenses associated with a project, including materials, labor, and overhead costs.
Time Tracking & Billing Allows the tracking of time spent on each project or task, which can be used for accurate billing and payroll purposes.
Budget Management Provides tools to set project budget limits, ensuring that costs do not exceed pre-defined thresholds.
Financial Reporting Offers a variety of financial reports (income statements, balance sheets, cash flow statements) for business analysis.
Invoice Generation & Management Automates invoice creation based on time spent and materials used; tracks payments and outstanding balances.
Integration with Design Software Seamlessly connects with common design tools and software used in architecture for streamlined workflow.
Resource Allocation Helps in efficiently assigning and managing resources such as personnel and materials to various projects.
Client Management Provides a database for storing client information and project history, improving customer relationship management.
Compliance & Regulatory Features Ensures financial practices and reports adhere to industry standards and government regulations.
Deltek Vantagepoint Project Phase Planning
Conduct project phase planning in Deltek Vantagepoint.

Primary Benefits

The reality is that there are many nuances to adequately managing financial information for a business that sells services instead of products. Architecture and design companies selling their professional services have unique requirements: billing is often based off of time, the type of financial reports needed can vary, and a client-centric approach to managing and presenting data is imperative. Finding a solution optimized for the way your company works can make a big difference in leveraging cost-savings and growth from your software investment.

Accounting software packages designed for architecture firms also offer a full range of financial management tools. Accounting features include the ability to print checks, pay bills, track expenses, manage payroll, create orders and invoices, manage receivables, establish budgets, perform bank reconciliations, and create top level financial reports.

Time and Billing for Projects

Time and billing modules provide a way to track time spent working on project for clients. A time and billing module will support time-tracking where entries can be assigned to specific clients or projects, as well as marked billable or non-billable. Time and billing is typically the easiest way to bill for work that is primarily based off of time. Summary views in time and billing applications help service businesses analyze the work they’ve performed on particular projects. Basic expense tracking capabilities provide a method for charging incidental costs back to the client.

Architecture firms also frequently need to manage lengthy design projects. Project management modules provide the ability to effectively manage workflow. With a project management module you’ll be better able to schedule project work. Typical results of improved project management include shorter timeframes to complete projects and better accuracy in identifying delivery dates.

Strengthen Client Relations

Most architecture firms work in a highly consultative capacity with their clients. Effectively managing relationships with clients is paramount. Tools that help improve client relations, such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems are critical for architects. An integrated CRM package can provide comprehensive information on customers and prospects for sales, marketing, and customer service.

BQE Core Reporting and Analytics
Visualize reports and analytics in BQE Core.

Pricing Guide

Architecture accounting software pricing can significantly vary, influenced by user count, features required, and desired customizations. Typical pricing ranges include:

  • Basic (1-4 users): $10 to $999/month
  • Mid-range (5-9 users): $15 to $1,646/month
  • Advanced (10+ users): $24 to $1,795+/month

Factors commonly affecting pricing include the software’s ability to scale with your firm, integration capabilities, and required training and support.

Taking the Next Steps

Solutions designed for the architectural industry are not found on the shelf at a retail store and searching online on your own can be time consuming and lead to dead ends. If you are at the point where you are ready to find which architectural software options are right for you, we can help. Through a brief phone call, our software specialists will look to better understand your business and software needs to help you locate a handful of solutions suited for your specific requirements. Get started today!

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