QuickBooks Online is one of the most popular accounting software solutions on the market.
A big reason for this popularity is the wide range of integrations that can expand and enhance the functionality of QuickBooks.
From CRM platforms and e-commerce systems to expense management tools and ERP software, there is a vast assortment of integration options available to QuickBooks Online users.
By leveraging the power of these various toolsets, users can:
- Streamline sales processes
- Refine employee procedures
- Improve customer relationships
- Simplify inventory management
Regardless of a business’s size or industry, the following integrations can revolutionize the management of day-to-day operations and drive success.
1. CRM platforms
CRM platforms (customer relationship management) enable businesses to centralize customer data, track sales performance, manage communications, and maintain a comprehensive view of all customer relationships.
There are few software tools that can match the ROI that a CRM provides, and that is why it tops our list of must-have software integrations.
- FreeAgent CRM– FreeAgent CRM is the #1 user-rated CRM on the market and is an ideal CRM solution for small and medium-sized businesses.
With FreeAgent, businesses can:
- Speed up sales cycles
- Improve sales outcomes
- Automate work processes
- Refine marketing campaigns
FreeAgent is also a HIPAA-compliant CRM, making it a popular choice for companies in healthcare and Med Tech.
2. ERP software
An ERP system (enterprise resource planning) is used to manage all the “back of house” processes of a business. This includes inventory management, supply chain management, production process management, and even some aspects of human capital management.
ERP is as essential to product development and order fulfillment teams as CRM is to sales and marketing teams, making it a high priority for businesses of all stripes.
- Oracle NetSuite– Oracle NetSuite is widely recognized as one of the top cloud-based ERP software solutions.
NetSuite ERP helps organizations operate more effectively by:
- Automating core processes
- Simplifying order processing
- Improving warehouse operations
- Streamlining inventory, production, and supply chain management
NetSuite ERP gives companies clear visibility into their data and tighter control over their business.
Honorable mention: Sage Intacct
3. E-commerce systems
E-commerce systems provide the technological infrastructure businesses need to create and manage their online stores.
With online purchasing moving to the forefront of sales in recent years, e-commerce systems have become an essential business tool.
- Shopify– Shopify is the leading e-commerce platform worldwide. It offers a robust set of tools and options that enable businesses to run an online store with ease.
Shopify can help businesses:
- Track online sales
- Process online orders
- Manage their online catalogs
Shopify can even help manage email marketing and social media campaigns.
Honorable mention: WooCommerce
4. Payment gateways
Payment gateways allow a business to accept online payments directly from their customers, facilitating a seamless buying experience.
Even businesses that don’t sell their products online can take advantage of online payment gateways for product reservations and pick-up orders. That’s why these software tools rank so high on our list.
- PayPal– PayPal is one of the most trusted and widely supported payment gateways in the US.
With PayPal, online retailers can create a frictionless buying experience that is familiar, fast, safe, and secure.
For small businesses looking to simplify their online financial transactions, PayPal is an easy choice.
5. POS systems
POS systems (point of sale) capture payment from physical sources like credit cards, bank cards, and gift cards.
As cash sales become less and less prevalent, payment gateways are becoming an increasingly important option for customers.
- Lightspeed– Lightspeed is a leading retail management POS system. It’s sleek and intuitive user interface enables quick and secure transactions in a variety of payment methods.
Additionally, Lightspeed has several features that support the broader sales process, including:
- Inventory management
- Employee activity tracking
- Sales reporting and analytics
Lightspeed is a great POS solution for businesses of all sizes, but those with more complex needs will get the most out of it.
Honorable mention: Toast
6. Payroll services
Payroll service software helps companies manage their payroll processes. These tools can automatically calculate wages and factor in deductions and taxes, leading to more accurate and reliable payment management.
All companies need to pay their employees, so payroll service tools are always in demand.
- Gusto– Gusto is easy-to-use while still offering a robust set of features that support:
- Tax filing
- Automated payroll processing
- Employee benefits management
This makes Gusto a popular choice for small and medium-sized businesses looking for a payroll solution that meets their needs without a large resource investment.
Honorable mention: ADP
7. Time tracking software
Time tracking software helps businesses accurately monitor employee hours, project hours, and billable hours.
The rise of remote work has added another layer of complexity to many company’s invoicing processes, so tools that can help manage these duties are becoming must-haves.
- Harvest– Harvest is one of the most comprehensive time-tracking and invoicing solutions available.
It offers features like:
- Invoicing
- Project tracking
- Expense tracking
- Timesheet management
Plus, Harvest’s analytics tools provide valuable insights that can inform better time management and resource allocation.
Honorable mention: Clockify
8. Expense management tools
Expense management tools make the process of capturing, categorizing, and tracking business expenses easier.
As business travel ramps up again in the coming years, the need for expense management software will only grow.
- Expensify– Expensify is a popular expense management solution for businesses across many different industries.
Expensify’s feature set is comprehensive and includes tools for:
- Mileage tracking
- Receipt scanning
- Expense categorization
- Reimbursement management
Expensify also supports automated expense reporting, which can lead to faster and more accurate financial reconciliation.
Honorable mention: Coupa
9. HR systems
HR systems (human resources) help HR professionals manage employee data and maintain compliance with HR regulations.
As companies grow their operations and expand their workforce into new territories, HR systems become more and more important.
- BambooHR– BambooHR is known for its user-friendly interface and affordability, making it an ideal solution for small and medium-sized businesses.
BambooHR offers features for:
- Time-off tracking
- Applicant tracking
- Employee onboarding
- Performance management
- Employee data management
10. BI platforms
BI platforms (business intelligence) enable organizations to leverage their advanced data analytics and financial performance reporting capabilities to gain business insight that can inform strategy and direction.
As businesses get bigger and more complex, BI tools become integral for maintaining steady and focused growth.
- Tableau– Tableau is renowned for delivering advanced data visualization and analytics capabilities in a platform that is accessible to any user.
Its drag-and-drop user interface is fresh and simple and the interactive dashboards are easy to customize.
Honorable mention: Sisense