NetSuite vs Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central: Comparison for DTC and B2B Retailers

Direct-to-consumer (DTC) and B2B eCommerce retailers operate complex multi-system environments – typically juggling an online store (e.g. Shopify or BigCommerce), a warehouse management system (WMS), and an enterprise resource planning (ERP) backbone. Two leading cloud ERPs in this space are Oracle NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central. Both offer robust functionality, but they differ in focus and fit. This comparison provides a detailed, UK-oriented evaluation of NetSuite vs Business Central, with an emphasis on integration architecture (embedded iPaaS), system performance, and practical outcomes like cost control and scalability.

Audience Note: This comparison is written for retailers already familiar with ERPs and iPaaS solutions, who need clarity on which system better suits their growth and integration needs. We assume you have an integration platform in place, so we focus on each ERP’s capabilities rather than alternative integration methods.

Overview of Each Platform

NetSuite: Launched in the late 1990s as a born-in-the-cloud ERP, NetSuite has become a comprehensive suite used by over 43,000 customers in 220+ countries. Now part of Oracle, it provides an integrated system covering financials, inventory management, order processing, CRM, and even commerce – all delivered as a multi-tenant SaaS solution. NetSuite is known for its breadth of modules and a single unified database that can handle many aspects of a retail business. For instance, retailers can manage accounting, multi-location inventory, procurement, and customer transactions in one place. A key offering is NetSuite OneWorld, which adds multi-company, multi-currency consolidation capabilities for global operations. NetSuite’s history as a cloud pioneer means it’s designed to scale with growing businesses and handle complex requirements out-of-the-box.

Dynamics 365 Business Central: Business Central is Microsoft’s cloud ERP aimed at small and mid-market businesses, built on the foundation of the older Dynamics NAV (Navision) product. It’s deeply integrated with the Microsoft ecosystem (Office 365, Teams, Azure) and is used by over 40,000 businesses worldwide. Business Central offers a full range of core ERP functionality – financials, sales and purchase order management, inventory, project management, etc. – in an all-in-one solution that is easy to use and adapt in a familiar Microsoft-style interface. As a modern cloud solution, it can be deployed as SaaS on Azure (or on-premises if needed), and it receives bi-annual release waves of new features from Microsoft. While Business Central can support multi-country operations, it particularly shines for retailers already invested in Microsoft tools or those with relatively simpler structures looking for a cost-effective, user-friendly ERP.

Integration Architecture Emphasis: Both ERPs support rich integration options. NetSuite provides REST and SOAP APIs and a marketplace of SuiteApps (prebuilt integrations and extensions), as well as connectors from third-party iPaaS providers. Business Central similarly exposes modern APIs, plus hundreds of add-ons in Microsoft AppSource. In practice, an embedded iPaaS can connect either ERP seamlessly into your retail tech stack – the key is designing a flexible, scalable integration architecture. With the right approach, data flows (orders, inventory updates, customer info, etc.) can be automated in near real-time across eCommerce, ERP, and WMS, resulting in a connected, high-performing tech stack. Cogent2’s experience in architecting such integrations means we focus on optimising these systems to work together effectively, letting your team concentrate on core business while integrations handle the heavy lifting.

Summary: At a high level, NetSuite and Business Central are both capable cloud ERPs covering the needs of DTC/B2B retailers, from financials to inventory. NetSuite tends to offer more built-in functionality for complex or multi-entity businesses, whereas Business Central leverages the Microsoft stack and is often praised for its familiar interface and lower entry cost. Next, we’ll compare them in depth across features, extensibility, reporting, multi-entity support, automation, and performance.

Core Features and Retail-Specific Capabilities

Both NetSuite and Business Central provide the essential features that retailers require, but there are nuanced differences in how they deliver them:

• Financials and Accounting: Both systems have strong financial cores (GL, AP, AR, tax, etc.). NetSuite was designed from the start to handle sophisticated accounting needs (e.g. revenue recognition, multi-currency consolidations) within the standard product. Business Central covers core financial management well and can be configured or extended to handle advanced needs, though some complex scenarios (like multi-entity consolidation or certain localized compliance) might require additional modules or partner solutions. In short, multi-subsidiary retailers will find NetSuite offers built-in consolidation and financial compliance out-of-the-box, while Business Central can do it with the proper configuration (the functionality is there, but may not be as turn-key without a partner’s help).

• Inventory and Order Management: Both ERPs support end-to-end inventory control, purchasing, and sales order management – critical for eCommerce operations. NetSuite provides native capabilities for multi-location inventory tracking, lot and serial tracking, demand planning, and even has add-ons for warehouse management and fulfilment. Business Central similarly offers inventory management, including tracking stock across locations, managing sales/purchase orders, and basic warehouse features (bins, picks, shipments) out-of-the-box. In practice, both can integrate with dedicated WMS solutions if needed, but for many mid-market retailers their built-in tools suffice. One NetSuite user noted that after implementing it, “we had real-time dashboards to see status in every warehouse and every shipping lane, making decisions based off live data.” This highlights NetSuite’s strength in operational visibility. Business Central users, on the other hand, often praise how well inventory data ties into familiar tools like Excel and Power BI for analysis.

• eCommerce and Channel Integration: Neither NetSuite nor Business Central includes a front-end webstore for DTC by default (though NetSuite offers SuiteCommerce as an add-on webstore module). Instead, retailers typically integrate these ERPs with leading eCommerce platforms (Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento/Adobe Commerce, etc.). Both ERPs support multi-channel selling: for example, syncing product data, inventory levels, and orders with an online store. NetSuite has various third-party connectors (Patchworks, etc.) and SuiteApps to integrate with Shopify and others, and it exposes web services for custom integrations. With an iPaaS in place, either ERP can serve as a reliable “source of truth” backend for all sales channels, ensuring inventory and order data flows smoothly. 

• CRM and Customer Data: NetSuite includes a basic CRM module natively (for managing customer records, leads, quotes) which can be useful for B2B customer management. Business Central doesn’t include full CRM features out-of-the-box but easily integrates with Dynamics 365 Sales (CRM) or can work alongside platforms like Salesforce. Retailers often use their eCommerce platform or a dedicated CRM for customer engagement, with the ERP serving as the record for transactions and financials. In either case, integration is key so customer and order data unify – something Cogent2 emphasizes in any multi-system architecture.

• Out-of-the-Box vs Add-Ons: NetSuite’s strategy is a single-platform approach – it tries to provide a wide breadth of functionality internally (financials, inventory, CRM, even basic HR or project management in some editions). This means retailers can often avoid multiple siloed systems; one review noted “it’s an all-in-one software… we can use a lot of its features”. Business Central takes a more modular ecosystem approach – it has solid core features and relies on extensions for industry-specific needs or advanced features. For example, if a retailer needs a sophisticated warehouse management or point-of-sale system, they might use a third-party app integrated with Business Central via AppSource. This difference reflects the vendors’ philosophies: NetSuite aims to be a one-stop-shop cloud suite, while Microsoft provides a flexible hub that you build around. Depending on your needs, you might value NetSuite’s all-in-one depth or Business Central’s mix-and-match extensibility.

Extensibility and Customisation

Ease of Customisation: Both ERPs are designed to be extended, but the tools and skills required differ:

• NetSuite: Highly configurable through its user interface – you can create custom fields, records, forms, and workflows without writing code. For deeper customisation, NetSuite offers the SuiteCloud platform (including SuiteScript, a JavaScript-based scripting language, and SuiteFlow for workflows). Developers (or experienced administrators) can write scripts to automate processes or add new logic, all of which run within the NetSuite environment. The benefit of this approach is that customisations are tightly integrated and can leverage NetSuite’s data model directly. The downside is that complex scripting may require specialist expertise, and there are governance rules to ensure performance isn’t degraded by poorly written code. One user pointed out that while “It is easy to use and customize... [with] a flexible platform to build custom solutions,” it’s important to note “implementation requires careful planning… It’s not a plug-and-play solution.” In other words, NetSuite can be molded to unique workflows, but doing so may involve significant effort during setup. On the plus side, many common retail customisations (like custom order flows or reports) can be done with clicks or minor scripting, especially with the help of a knowledgeable partner.

• Dynamics 365 Business Central: Emphasises an extensions model. Basic personalisation – such as adding fields to forms, rearranging pages, or tweaking reports – can be done in the UI by power users. However, any substantial custom functionality is implemented as an “extension” using Microsoft’s AL programming language (developed in Visual Studio Code). Essentially, instead of modifying the base application directly, developers create separate extension packages that attach to Business Central. This has the advantage of keeping the core system clean (so Microsoft’s updates can be applied easily without breaking your code). The trade-off is that advanced customisation relies on developer skills or partner involvement, and some users note a “steep learning curve for new users” when it comes to unlocking full potential via custom extensions. For a retailer’s IT team already versed in Microsoft tech, AL code may feel approachable; others might find it simpler to work with a Microsoft partner for customisations. The bottom line is that Business Central can be highly tailored, but largely via coded extensions rather than the in-app scripting that NetSuite uses.

Marketplace and Integrations as Extensions: Both platforms have robust marketplaces for third-party solutions, which is another form of extensibility:

• NetSuite SuiteApp.com: An official marketplace of certified SuiteApps that plug into NetSuite. Many SuiteApps are built by NetSuite or partners to add functionality (e.g. advanced shipping carriers integration, specialised reporting, etc.) or to integrate external systems. Because these SuiteApps run within NetSuite’s environment, they tend to feel like native features once installed. Retail example: a SuiteApp could connect to a 3PL for fulfilment or add a robust demand forecasting module beyond standard NetSuite.

• Microsoft AppSource: Microsoft’s app store for Dynamics 365 products, including Business Central. Here you’ll find extensions for things like eCommerce, logistics, or industry-specific tools. Additionally, Power Platform connectors allow Business Central to hook into other applications or allow custom apps to be built (using Power Apps) that extend BC’s data to other use cases. For instance, a retailer could use Power Automate to build a custom workflow that takes new online orders (from Shopify via the BC connector) and triggers a Teams notification or a task in their project system. This low-code approach can extend Business Central’s reach without altering its core.

Updates and Compatibility: Because NetSuite and Business Central are cloud-based and updated regularly (NetSuite twice yearly, BC also twice yearly release waves), customisations must be done in a sustainable way. NetSuite’s in-platform customisations generally carry forward in upgrades, though occasionally scripts might need tweaks if an API changes. Business Central’s extension model is explicitly designed so that custom code is separate, reducing upgrade conflicts – but if Microsoft changes underlying objects, extensions may require updates too. In either case, working with experienced technical consultants (like Cogent2’s team) helps ensure your customisations are robust and optimized. Our approach is to “go deep” to understand which customisations are truly needed versus using standard best practices, thereby controlling scope and cost while delivering exactly what your business requires.

Key Takeaway: NetSuite offers strong in-app configurability and scripting, giving technically savvy users a lot of power, whereas Business Central offers extensibility through structured add-ons and integrations, leveraging the broader Microsoft development ecosystem. Retailers with very unique processes might favor NetSuite’s flexibility, while those preferring a more standardised system that plugs into Microsoft’s world might lean toward Business Central. In both cases, the ability to customise is there – it’s a question of tools (SuiteScript vs. AL) and the expertise needed.

Reporting and Business Intelligence

In a data-driven retail environment, reporting and analytics are crucial. NetSuite and Business Central approach analytics differently:

• NetSuite Reporting: NetSuite provides a rich set of built-in reporting tools. Notably, Saved Searches allow users to query virtually any data in the system with filters and formulas, and then turn those into on-screen reports or dashboards. While there is a learning curve to mastering saved searches and the report builder, users report that “once you do they are immensely powerful.” NetSuite’s dashboards give real-time visibility across your business – for example, you can see KPIs for sales, inventory turnover, fulfillment status, all updated live as transactions occur. Many retailers rely on these dashboards to monitor daily operations. There’s also a drag-and-drop SuiteAnalytics Workbook tool for more advanced analysis, and in recent years Oracle has introduced the NetSuite Analytics Warehouse (NSAW), a separate BI warehouse that lets you combine ERP data with other data sources for deep insights. For most mid-sized retailers, the built-in NetSuite reports and searches are sufficient for operational needs (sales by channel, stock levels by SKU, financial statements, etc.). NetSuite’s strength is that reporting is real-time within the ERP – you don’t necessarily need an external BI tool for everyday analysis. As one user highlighted, “the ease of using reports and creating specific reports and saved searches” is a best-liked aspect of NetSuite.

• Business Central Reporting: Business Central comes with a range of standard reports (financial statements, tax reports, inventory valuations, etc.) and a basic analysis tool (Analysis Views for slicing data). Users can also design custom layouts for reports (e.g. invoices or order summaries) with Word or Excel templates. However, for advanced analytics and interactive dashboards, Business Central leans on Microsoft’s Power BI. Business Central has a native connector to Power BI, making it relatively straightforward to export and refresh ERP data into Power BI dashboards. The combination of BC + Power BI is powerful: retailers can create rich visual dashboards (for example, a dashboard showing sales by region, top products, sell-through rates, etc. blending BC data with perhaps Google Analytics or other sources). The trade-off is that Power BI is an external tool – data needs to sync (on a schedule or via live queries) and there’s a bit of setup involved to maintain the connection. For companies already using Office 365, this is usually not an issue and is actually a benefit: Power BI is familiar and can aggregate data from multiple sources, not just the ERP. Users say, “It’s great being able to get real time updated information... I can quickly log in, see what my staff is seeing and help with problem solving”, highlighting that BC plus Microsoft’s BI tools enable collaborative, up-to-date insights. Keep in mind “real-time” in this context might depend on how often the data refreshes in Power BI – it can be near real-time with the right configuration.

• Excel and Ad-hoc Analysis: Both ERPs can export data to Excel for further analysis, but Business Central has an edge in tight Excel integration. You can edit certain BC data directly in Excel and publish it back (with proper controls), and many screens in BC have an “Open in Excel” feature. NetSuite also allows CSV export/import and has ODBC connectivity for Excel/Access, but Microsoft’s ecosystem integration is arguably smoother if your team loves Excel. This means a finance analyst in a retail company might prefer BC if they plan to do a lot of Excel modeling on the ERP data, whereas with NetSuite they might rely on saved searches or SuiteAnalytics for similar tasks.

• Financial and Operational Reporting: NetSuite’s financial reporting capabilities (consolidated P&L, budget vs actuals, etc.) are quite mature, especially with OneWorld for multi-entity consolidation – you can produce consolidated financials at the click of a button across subsidiaries. Business Central can also consolidate across companies, but it may need a bit more work in setup (defining multiple companies and using the consolidation feature or reporting tools). For operational metrics (like order processing times, stock levels), NetSuite’s unified system might make it easier to build one report that covers end-to-end metrics. In BC, since some processes might involve external systems (e.g. if you’re using an external eCommerce, and feeding summary data to BC), certain reports might actually be built in Power BI combining data. Each approach can yield excellent insights – what’s important is to have the right data available.

Bottom Line: NetSuite offers strong built-in analytics with real-time dashboards and the flexible saved search mechanism. It’s very self-contained for reporting needs. Business Central provides basic reports in-system and excels when paired with Power BI for analytics, leveraging Microsoft’s best-in-class BI platform. If your organisation already uses Power BI for other reporting, adding Business Central data to it can feel seamless (indeed, some Business Central packages come with sample Power BI content packs). Retailers who want everything in one system might lean toward NetSuite for analytics, while those who are happy using a separate BI tool might find Business Central’s approach equally effective. In both cases, you’ll want to ensure your data flows are well-integrated (via iPaaS) so that your reports reflect one version of the truth across eCommerce, ERP, and other systems – an area Cogent2 pays special attention to when optimising reporting architectures.

Multi-Entity Support and International Capabilities

Global retail operations or multi-brand companies require ERP support for multiple entities, currencies, and tax regimes. Here’s how the two ERP systems compare in this regard:

• NetSuite OneWorld (Multi-Entity Mastery): NetSuite was built with multi-entity, multi-currency support in mind. The OneWorld module (often included for mid-sized implementations) allows you to manage multiple subsidiaries or business units within one NetSuite account. Each subsidiary can have its base currency, tax localization, and local accounting rules, while rolling up to a parent for consolidated financials. For example, a UK-based retailer with a US subsidiary and a German subsidiary can all operate in one NetSuite instance – processing transactions in GBP, USD, EUR respectively, and at period end, the parent company can automatically consolidate books (with appropriate exchange rates and elimination entries). Tax compliance is also a strong suit: NetSuite provides localized tax reports (VAT returns, etc.) for many jurisdictions, and the ability to handle multi-GAAP accounting if needed. Users highlight that NetSuite “was designed to support complex financial operations from the start… manage multi-entity, multi-currency and consolidated financials in one place without relying on outside tools.” This makes NetSuite very attractive to retailers operating in multiple countries or selling through multiple legal entities (e.g. if you have separate entities for retail and wholesale channels). Additionally, NetSuite’s robustness in this area extends to multi-warehouse and multi-location inventory tracking within a single entity, which is a plus for operational flexibility.

• Business Central’s Multi-Company Approach: Business Central can also handle multiple companies in a single environment. You can create separate company data sets for each legal entity (e.g. one for UK, one for US, etc.) and switch between them within the application. It supports multiple currencies, and consolidation features exist to combine financial data from subsidiaries into a consolidated company. However, Business Central’s multi-entity support, while solid, is often considered less out-of-the-box than NetSuite’s. Typically, you’ll configure each company’s chart of accounts and then set up a consolidation company that pulls in the data. Features like intercompany transactions are available (so you can post a transaction that affects two BC companies, like an inventory transfer sale between an EU and a US entity). The main difference is that NetSuite’s architecture truly treats subsidiaries as part of one unified whole, whereas Business Central’s design is a separate-but-connected company model. This means global retailers using BC may rely a bit more on partner expertise to configure consolidations and handle complexities like divergent fiscal calendars. One reviewer noted, “Dynamics 365 Business Central works well with Microsoft tools and helps manage key business functions like finance and sales,” but also that “I don’t like how BC isn’t natively integrated with other Microsoft Dynamics products and requires third-party connector tools” – implying that even within Microsoft’s ecosystem, certain integrations (or multi-module scenarios) are not automatic. This is less about multiple entities and more about cross-module integration, but it hints that advanced setups need some work.

• Global Compliance: NetSuite has built-in support for many localisations (e.g. handling European VAT vs US sales tax, local financial statements formats, etc.), given its broad international user base. Business Central also offers localized versions for many countries (with support from Microsoft or local partners for country-specific features). In the UK context, both systems support Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT, for instance (through built-in functionality or add-ons). Both can handle multiple VAT schemes, EU intra-community transactions, etc. For a retailer selling internationally, either system will be a huge upgrade from spreadsheets or smaller software in terms of managing compliance. The key difference is if you need one system instance to cover all global operations: NetSuite excels there with OneWorld’s seamless consolidation; Business Central can do it but might segment data by company more.

• Scaling to Enterprise vs Simpler Structures: As a rule of thumb often cited by ERP experts: NetSuite is often chosen by companies that are growing quickly, have multi-entity complexity, or operate in many markets, whereas Business Central is often chosen by companies with simpler structures or single-entity operations (at least initially). For example, if you run a single UK retail brand and just need solid financials and inventory without multinational complexity, Business Central could fit nicely. If you’re running multiple brands across regions, NetSuite’s consolidation might save you time and headaches. An ERP partner noted: “NetSuite is often a better fit if you manage multiple entities, currencies or locations and need built-in financial consolidation across subsidiaries… Microsoft Business Central may work better if you operate in a single country or have a simpler business structure.” This doesn’t mean BC can’t do multi-company – it can – but NetSuite was built for it from the start, which is reassuring if you already know your structure is complex.

In Summary: For multi-entity and global needs, NetSuite OneWorld is a clear leader with native, unified multi-company management, while Business Central can absolutely support multi-entity scenarios but likely with more configuration and possibly third-party enhancements for advanced needs. If international expansion and consolidation are top priorities, NetSuite’s ready-to-go approach might edge it out. If your operations are currently focused in one region (with potential to add entities later), Business Central won’t hold you back – you can start simpler and grow into multi-company features as needed. The right choice also depends on whether you prefer to consolidate data within the ERP or in a data warehouse/BI layer. Some larger firms using Business Central opt to consolidate and analyze across entities in Power BI or SQL databases, rather than strictly inside the ERP, whereas NetSuite encourages doing it inside the system through OneWorld. Either way, Cogent2 can help design the reporting architecture so that performance metrics and financials are accessible at both local and global levels.

Automation and Workflow Capabilities

Modern ERPs need to streamline processes and eliminate manual work through automation. Both NetSuite and Business Central provide tools to automate workflows and routine tasks, though again via different means:

• NetSuite Automation (SuiteFlow & Scripting): NetSuite includes SuiteFlow, a built-in workflow engine that lets you create custom workflows via a visual interface (point-and-click). For example, a retailer might create a workflow to automate order approval for high-value B2B orders or to route a customer refund request through a manager. SuiteFlow can send emails, create tasks, update records, all based on triggers and conditions you define. Additionally, using SuiteScript, you can script more complex automation logic – e.g. automatically allocate inventory to backorders each night, or integrate with a courier API when an order is marked shipped. These automations run on NetSuite’s cloud and can be scheduled or triggered by events. Users have found great benefit in these features: one customer described how NetSuite “streamlined processes that used to be manual and time-consuming… The automation features and built-in compliance checks have saved us significant hours each month.”. This highlights how things like month-end close, reporting, or data entry tasks can be automated within NetSuite. Moreover, NetSuite’s recent releases infuse AI-assisted automation (NetSuite “Next” features) to suggest or auto-complete tasks (for instance, suggesting transaction categorizations), further reducing manual effort. The key point is that with NetSuite you can automate both simple and complex workflows natively, which is a boon for operational efficiency.

• Dynamics 365 Business Central Automation: Business Central has basic workflow functionality built-in – for instance, you can set up approval workflows for purchases or sales orders, so that certain documents require manager approval before posting. These are configurable within the application (no coding needed for standard approval routes). For more elaborate automation, Business Central leverages the Power Platform, especially Power Automate (formerly Microsoft Flow). Power Automate is a cloud service that can listen to events in Business Central (via connectors) and then perform actions in Business Central or any other app. For example, you could create a Power Automate flow that triggers when a new customer is added in BC, and then automatically creates an account in your email marketing system, then notifies your CRM. Or a flow that sends a Teams alert when inventory of a critical item goes below a threshold. The advantage here is you’re using a low-code tool with a vast library of connectors – essentially, automation is not limited to within the ERP, but can span your whole tech stack. Business Central also supports event subscriptions and background tasks for developers who want to automate processes directly within BC (with AL code you can respond to events like “an order is posted” and trigger custom actions). Microsoft’s introduction of Copilot AI across Dynamics products also brings some automation; for instance, Copilot in Business Central can assist in generating product descriptions or responding to inquiries by pulling data from BC – not exactly workflow automation, but automation of content and insights which can save time for users. One user summarised BC’s automation potential well: “Integrates well with Microsoft 365... and the Power Platform tools,” though also noting you may need some dev skills for advanced stuff.

• Comparing Approaches: NetSuite’s automation tends to be ERP-centric – automating tasks inside NetSuite (which can certainly include integration tasks via its scripts or connectors). Business Central’s automation is ecosystem-centric – leaning on external services (Power Automate) to orchestrate tasks that include BC. If you’re already using Microsoft Power Automate for other workflows, adding BC into those flows is natural. If not, you’ll be introducing a new tool. For some, NetSuite’s all-in-one approach is simpler (set it up within NetSuite and let it run there); for others, the Power Platform approach is more flexible (especially if you want one tool automating across multiple systems).

• Examples in a Retail Context: In NetSuite, you might automate eCommerce order import and fulfillment: when a Shopify order comes in (via integration), NetSuite could automatically create the order, allocate inventory, generate a picking ticket, and email the customer an order confirmation – all without human touch. In Business Central, that same scenario might be handled by a combination of the Shopify-BC connector (to import the order) and a Power Automate flow to send the confirmation email or update another system. Another example: automating inventory reordering. NetSuite has built-in capabilities for reorder points and can generate purchase orders automatically based on stock levels. Business Central also has forecasting and reorder point features (like “stockkeeping unit” card and requisition worksheets), which can automate PO suggestions. Both systems, when configured, can auto-generate purchase orders or transfer orders and then just notify users for approval.

• Human Workflow vs Lights-Out Automation: It’s worth noting that both ERPs allow for human-in-the-loop workflows (like approvals) as well as “lights-out” fully automated tasks. A balanced approach is common: e.g., auto-create a draft invoice but have an accountant review before sending. Each system’s workflow engine or Power Automate can accommodate these scenarios. Retailers often automate the repetitive low-risk steps to free up team members for value-add tasks (like analyzing exceptions or improving processes). The goal, aligned with Cogent2’s philosophy, is to optimise processes and deliver fast, reliable data flows across platforms. Automation is a key means to that end, as it reduces errors and latency in the business.

Key Takeaway: NetSuite offers powerful embedded workflow and scripting tools to automate processes directly within the ERP environment, making it a strong choice for businesses that want to centralise automation in one platform. Business Central offers robust automation through the Microsoft Power Platform, which is ideal if you want to integrate ERP workflows with the rest of your software ecosystem or prefer a low-code approach to automation that can span many applications. Both can dramatically improve operational efficiency – it often comes down to whether you’re more comfortable tweaking automation inside the ERP (NetSuite) or using external automation services (Business Central’s approach). In either case, a well-implemented automation can lead to significant performance improvements and cost savings, as mundane manual tasks are eliminated and your team can focus on strategic activities.

Performance and Scalability

For growing retailers, it’s critical that the chosen ERP can handle increasing volumes of transactions (orders, products, customers) and not become a bottleneck during peak seasons (like holiday shopping spikes). We’ll examine the performance and scalability of NetSuite and Business Central:

• NetSuite Performance: NetSuite is a cloud-native, multi-tenant platform hosted in Oracle’s data centers (OCI). It’s built to scale from tens to thousands of users and from a handful of transactions to tens of thousands per day. NetSuite’s multi-tenant nature means performance can sometimes vary (as resources are shared), but Oracle continuously monitors and optimises the environment. In practice, NetSuite is known to handle mid-market volumes well – many retailers that started on NetSuite a decade ago have grown 10x and continue to run on it. Users frequently comment on NetSuite’s reliability: “It has been very reliable. I can only think of 1-2 times in 4.5 years that we had issues getting in” and its ability to handle growth, “very capable of handling many situations… especially in periods of growth.” Of course, performance tuning is important: NetSuite administrators must watch for things like long-running scripts or heavy reports that could slow the system. NetSuite provides tools like script performance logs and recommends best practices (like scheduling intensive jobs during off-peak hours). Additionally, NetSuite’s SuiteCloud platform enforces “governance” limits on scripts (e.g. a script can only consume so many resources before it must yield) to prevent any one customer or process from hogging resources – these limits encourage efficient scripting and prevent runaway processes from impacting performance. For retailers, this means tasks like order imports, batch invoicing, etc., are managed so they don’t crash the system. If volumes are extremely high, companies can distribute workload (for instance, use an integration middleware to pre-aggregate or throttle transactions). NetSuite also allows vertical scaling by upgrading tiers (for more throughput) – usually handled behind the scenes by Oracle. In summary, NetSuite can scale with a growing retailer, but it’s wise to optimise customisations and use an experienced partner to “squeeze the best performance” out of the system.

• Business Central Performance: Business Central (in its cloud/SaaS form) is hosted on Microsoft’s Azure cloud. Each Business Central customer gets their own environment and database (it’s not multi-tenant in the same way; it’s more of a managed single-tenant per customer on a shared infrastructure). Microsoft manages performance by allocating resources and automatically tuning the SQL backend. Generally, Business Central’s performance for transactional processing is fast for typical SMB and mid-market workloads. Screens load quickly, and the interface is snappy, especially in a browser or the Windows desktop app. Because BC was born from an on-premise product, some very large datasets or complex processing might require careful optimization (the system is SQL-based under the hood). For example, if you have millions of ledger entries, you might need to archive old data periodically to keep reports quick – similar to any SQL-based ERP. Microsoft imposes some limits (like 80 GB database capacity per environment by default, which can be extended at a cost – 80 GB is plenty for most mid-size retailers’ ERP data). Scalability in Business Central often comes down to number of users and throughput – it’s typically great up to a few hundred users. For enterprise scale (thousands of users or extremely heavy transaction loads), Microsoft might steer companies towards their larger Dynamics 365 Finance & Supply Chain product. That said, Business Central can handle quite a lot: one case is a distribution company processing thousands of orders a day on BC without issue, after tuning indexes and using extension design for performance. Users have mentioned “Overall, Business Central is a powerful, scalable ERP… but requires training and dev skills for full potential.” The “scalable” there refers to functionality growth, but also implies it can grow with the business. However, there are also anecdotes of performance hiccups: for instance, a user noted “when customizing too much, it can lead to lag with the platform.” This suggests that poorly optimized custom extensions or heavy use of add-ons can slow things down – similar to NetSuite’s caution with scripts. Another user on BC said “glitches in the app and browser sometimes cause instability”, though this seems to point to occasional UI issues rather than core processing.

• Peak Load and Throughput: Retailers care about end-of-day batch jobs (like posting all the day’s orders or updating thousands of prices). Both ERPs can handle these, but consider how: NetSuite might rely on scheduled scripts or its Mass Update and CSV import tools to process bulk changes – these are fairly efficient but not instantaneous on huge volumes. Business Central might use its Processing Report pages or codeunits, or offload work to Azure Functions via Power Automate for heavy tasks. During flash sales or Black Friday, your integration (iPaaS) might queue orders to not overwhelm the ERP. With proper integration design, we ensure orders flow steadily into the ERP without bottlenecking. Both Oracle and Microsoft perform scaling in the cloud to accommodate spikes to a degree (Microsoft can allocate more resources to BC environments as needed, Oracle similarly for NetSuite). It’s advisable to communicate with the vendor if you expect massive seasonal peaks so they can ensure performance capacity.

• Scaling with Your Business: A qualitative way to compare: NetSuite is designed to handle complexity and scale up to upper mid-market and some enterprise scenarios, whereas Business Central is ideal for small to mid-sized operations and can scale, but may encounter more need for workarounds at the very high end. One source put it succinctly: “NetSuite [is] designed for growth — handles complex structures and can add modules as you grow. Business Central [is] well-suited for businesses with simpler requirements — scaling often requires more customization or partner support.” In practice, many companies graduate from entry-level systems into Business Central, and later if they become very large, they might either stick with BC and heavily customise, or consider a bigger ERP. With NetSuite, companies might start in mid-market and stay on it even as a large enterprise division (there are Fortune 500 subsidiaries running NetSuite). So from a scaling headroom perspective, NetSuite arguably has a higher ceiling before you’d consider moving off it.

• User Experience Performance: An often overlooked aspect of “performance” is how user-friendly and responsive the system feels day-to-day. NetSuite’s UI is web-based and has improved over the years (the 2025 interface is cleaner and faster than older versions). Business Central’s UI is also web-based (or via a desktop app that is essentially a shell) and is quite modern, with a design language similar to Office. Users coming from legacy systems or spreadsheets will find both a big improvement. Microsoft’s UI might feel more intuitive to some (especially if you live in Outlook and Excel – BC pages have an Office 365 vibe). Cogent2’s consultants have worked extensively with Shopify+NetSuite and Shopify+Dynamics tech stacks, and we find that training users on either system is very achievable – sometimes Business Central’s learning curve is slightly shorter for non-technical users due to its familiar look, while NetSuite’s depth might require a bit more training initially (reflected in an ease-of-use rating of ~3.9/5 for NetSuite vs 3.7/5 for Business Central on Capterra). Ultimately, a fast system is one that not only processes quickly, but that your team can navigate efficiently. Both platforms can be optimised (through UI customisation, saved views, shortcuts) to speed up day-to-day tasks.

In summary: Both NetSuite and Business Central deliver solid cloud performance for typical retail operations. NetSuite has proven performance at scale – it can handle high transaction volumes and complex data sets, provided best practices are followed (and Oracle’s cloud backbone is robust, with many years of optimisations). Business Central offers reliable performance for its target market – speedy for small/mid companies, and capable of scaling further with tuning, though extremely large operations might push its limits or require more careful extension design. From a scalability standpoint, NetSuite’s all-in-one, decades-in-cloud design gives confidence for aggressive growth, while Business Central’s integration with Azure and the wider Microsoft platform ensures it can leverage external computing power (Power Platform, etc.) to extend processes when needed. The key for retailers is to ensure whichever system you choose is implemented with performance in mind: archiving old data, efficient coding, using integration wisely to offload non-core tasks, and conducting load testing for peak seasons. This is where Cogent2’s optimisation and technical consulting comes in – we make sure the architecture (ERP + iPaaS + eCommerce) is scalable and tuned so you’re ready for big promotions and long-term growth without hiccups.

Feature Checklist Comparison Table

Below is a side-by-side feature comparison of NetSuite and Business Central, focused on the needs of DTC/B2B retailers:

(Note: The above table is a generalised comparison. Specific capabilities can vary based on software versions and the modules/extensions used. Both systems are regularly updated with new features.)

Suitability by Business Size and Use Case

Every retailer’s requirements differ, but it’s useful to evaluate which ERP might be better suited for different company sizes or growth stages. Here we break it down into Small, Mid-Market, and Enterprise contexts:

Small Businesses (SMB)

Profile: Typically under ~50 employees, perhaps moving off QuickBooks/Xero or legacy systems, and operating mostly in one country. Budget is a major consideration, and IT resources are limited.

• Business Central: Often a strong candidate for SMBs due to its lower entry cost and familiar interface. The licensing is straightforward (priced per user/month, with Essentials or Premium editions around £52–£75 per user) and you can start with just a few users. Implementation can be faster with Microsoft’s rapid start tools or a partner’s templated approach. One big advantage is if the company already uses Microsoft 365 – the users can leverage Outlook, Excel, and Teams integrated with ERP data (reducing training friction). Business Central’s flexibility to start small (even with just core financials) and then add modules or integrations as the business grows is appealing to small retailers. Also, Microsoft offers a free trial, which SMBs appreciate to “try before you buy”. On the flip side, an SMB with no IT team might need a partner’s help to implement and set up workflows initially. But overall, BC is designed with the smaller business in mind, making enterprise-grade capabilities accessible without overwhelming a lean team. As one partner noted, “Business Central has a more transparent pricing model, making it appealing for businesses with simpler needs or tighter budgets.” For a UK retailer that just needs solid accounting, inventory, and integration to Shopify, Business Central can be a cost-effective choice that scales later.

• NetSuite: NetSuite can absolutely be used by small businesses (and many do start on it), but the upfront cost and complexity are typically higher. NetSuite’s pricing is modular and usually involves a base subscription plus additional module fees and a minimum user count. An SMB might find that the total cost for NetSuite is higher than Business Central for an equivalent small setup. For example, NetSuite implementation can range significantly in cost (often tens of thousands of pounds even for a fairly small scope), whereas Business Central implementations can sometimes be done more cheaply if using standard setups. That said, if an SMB has very ambitious growth plans or already complex needs (perhaps a startup with multi-country sales or a need for advanced warehouse management from day one), they might opt for NetSuite to avoid switching later. NetSuite’s SuiteSuccess program offers a pre-configured package aimed at smaller businesses to get up and running quickly with best practices. An SMB retailer might choose NetSuite if they value having a single system for everything early on and can invest in that foundation. However, many SMBs find NetSuite to be “overkill” until they reach a certain size – as one TrustRadius review put it, “Not well suited for startups or very small businesses... Overkill in complexity and cost.”. Cogent2’s view: for a typical small retailer making their first jump to ERP, Business Central or a similar SMB-focused solution tends to be a more right-sized fit, unless the retailer’s operations are unusually complex or their growth trajectory demands an enterprise-grade system from the outset.

Mid-Market Companies

Profile: Roughly 50–500 employees (or $10m–$200m revenue, as a loose range). This includes established DTC brands, multi-store retailers, or wholesalers who have outgrown basic systems. Likely operating in one or a few countries, possibly with multiple sales channels (eCommerce, marketplaces, B2B wholesale).

• NetSuite: This is NetSuite’s sweet spot. Mid-market retailers often have enough complexity – multiple warehouses, international sales, wholesale and retail channels, hundreds of SKU variants, etc. – that NetSuite’s comprehensive suite shines. They likely require strong financial controls, integrated inventory and order management, and maybe multi-subsidiary accounting (e.g. a UK company with a EU subsidiary). NetSuite can handle these requirements in one system, which reduces the number of disparate tools. The total cost for NetSuite at this scale becomes more justifiable, given the breadth of functionality replacing other systems. Additionally, NetSuite’s scalability means the company can continue to grow on it for many years. We often see mid-market brands (including well-known UK eCommerce names) using Shopify Plus for the front-end and NetSuite as the ERP backbone – Cogent2 has supported such clients, leveraging our expertise in optimising Shopify & NetSuite tech stacks for large merchants. If a mid-market retailer needs capabilities like advanced demand planning, automated procure-to-pay, or robust multi-channel inventory allocations, NetSuite provides those natively or via SuiteApps. The trade-off is that the implementation of NetSuite in mid-market is a significant project – but one that pays dividends when done right, streamlining operations across departments. Mid-sized companies also benefit from NetSuite’s ecosystem of partners and SuiteApps, as they often have the budget to incorporate third-party solutions for things like automated AP processing or BI, which plug into NetSuite.

• Business Central: Business Central also targets the mid-market, and for companies that are Microsoft-centric or that prefer a modular approach, it’s very competitive here. A mid-market retailer with, say, 3 regional sales offices and an online store might appreciate BC’s integration with tools like Power BI, Customer Engagement (CRM), and Office for a unified experience. Business Central can cover their needs, though in some cases it might require a couple of add-on solutions (for example, a niche warehouse functionality or EDI processing for wholesale might come from a third party). The cost of Business Central for mid-market (with ~20-50 users, for instance) often remains lower than NetSuite’s, especially on ongoing subscription fees, though the gap narrows as more functionality is added. One benefit is the Microsoft partner network – there are many Dynamics partners who have templates for retail, which can reduce implementation time. Business Central’s mid-market users often praise that “it integrates well and is easy to manage”, indicating it doesn’t require a large internal IT team to keep it running. A potential drawback for mid-market is if extremely complex requirements arise (like very sophisticated promotions engine affecting inventory or complex multi-national tax handling), BC might rely on custom development whereas NetSuite might have a built-in or SuiteApp solution readily available.

• Choosing at Mid-Market: At this stage, it often boils down to fit and preference. Both ERPs can work. If a company highly values breadth of features out-of-the-box, global consolidation, and has the budget for it, they might lean NetSuite. If they value integration with Microsoft tech, a potentially lower TCO, and have somewhat standard processes that can fit into BC’s structure, they might lean Business Central. As one comparison noted, “Neither system is inherently better. Both can manage your core business processes effectively – the difference lies in how complex your operations are and how much flexibility you need as you grow.”. Mid-market firms should assess not just current needs, but also 5-year plan: do they anticipate doubling in size, entering many new markets, or diversifying? NetSuite is often chosen by those with aggressive growth plans who don’t want the system to be a limiter. Business Central is chosen by those who want robust capabilities but also value ease of use and integration with existing tools.

Enterprise or Large Organisations

Profile: Hundreds to thousands of employees, multi-national presence, or highly complex operations. Could be a division of a large company or a very fast-growing scale-up. Typically has dedicated IT/ERP staff and is concerned with things like deep customizations, inter-department workflows, and enterprise-level reporting.

• NetSuite: Within enterprises, NetSuite is sometimes used at the divisional level or for specific business units. It’s less common for a Fortune 500 company to run entirely on NetSuite as their corporate ERP (they might use SAP or Oracle Cloud ERP), but many large companies run NetSuite for certain subsidiaries or regions. For a large retail organisation, NetSuite could be a great fit for a new international branch or a direct-to-consumer division that needs a quick-to-implement, cloud solution rather than extending a massive on-prem ERP. NetSuite’s strength in enterprise context is quick deployment and agility – large companies have adopted it for that reason. However, NetSuite can also support a fairly large standalone enterprise (with a few thousand users, etc.), especially if the enterprise values cloud simplicity over heavy custom processes. Oracle has been infusing NetSuite with more AI and scalability improvements to inch it up-market as well. One limitation might be extremely complex manufacturing or distribution processes – NetSuite has modules for manufacturing, but very large, complex manufacturers might require specialised ERP. For a large retail group, NetSuite could manage omni-channel orders, a vast product catalogue, and international financials – but they’d need to ensure their implementation is well-architected to handle that volume (possibly leveraging SuiteCloud Plus for parallel processing, etc.). Many enterprises also appreciate that NetSuite as a cloud ERP means no infrastructure to maintain, and Oracle handles updates and security – a contrast to older on-prem systems that require heavy IT support.

• Business Central: Microsoft positions Business Central primarily for small and medium businesses, not full enterprises. If a large enterprise is looking at Dynamics, they often consider Dynamics 365 Finance & Supply Chain (the flagship enterprise ERP, formerly AX). However, there are cases where Business Central is deployed in a large company in specific scenarios: e.g., for smaller subsidiaries, or when replacing disparate legacy systems in a phased approach. A large company might use BC for a certain region where the complexity is lower, or for a line of business that doesn’t justify a big ERP rollout. Business Central can integrate with the broader Dynamics 365 suite (e.g. Dynamics CRM, Power BI, etc.), which an enterprise might already be using – that’s a plus for not adding a completely new ecosystem. Still, if an enterprise tried to use Business Central for very high volume or highly complex operations, they might find they push up against performance limits or missing very advanced features. Also, from a governance perspective, enterprises sometimes prefer systems with very granular security and segregation of duties controls – NetSuite has fairly good capabilities here (especially with OneWorld roles per subsidiary), whereas Business Central’s security model is simpler and might need careful extension for stringent compliance. An enterprise might choose Business Central if they specifically want a lighter-weight ERP to deploy quickly and can accept its functional limits, or if they have a corporate directive to use Microsoft tech wherever possible for synergy.

• Enterprise Decision Factors: Enterprises will weigh the ecosystem alignment (NetSuite/Oracle vs Microsoft/Azure) heavily. For instance, an eCommerce enterprise already invested in Azure, using Power BI and Office 365 everywhere, might stick with a Microsoft solution for smooth integration – maybe even using Business Central as a stop-gap until they move to Dynamics 365 Finance when needed. A company that values independence or specific NetSuite strengths (like a particular retail SuiteApp or the ease of running multiple international subsidiaries) might pick NetSuite for a division even if the rest of the corporation is on something else. It’s about the right tool for the job. Both options can deliver results at scale, but an enterprise will consider long-term roadmap: NetSuite could be a long-term solution for a large business unit; Business Central might be seen as a mid-term solution until growth necessitates moving up within the Microsoft family.

Summary of Use-Case Fit:

• SMB: Business Central often wins for being more accessible and affordable, unless the SMB has extraordinary needs that justify NetSuite’s heavier investment.

• Mid-Market: Both are viable; NetSuite often for those with complexity or multi-entity growth, Business Central for those valuing Microsoft integration and a slightly leaner approach.

• Enterprise: NetSuite can function at large scale especially in distributed orgs; Business Central is usually limited to smaller scope within an enterprise context, with an upgrade path to larger Dynamics 365 products if needed.

It’s worth reinforcing that choosing an ERP is not just about current size but growth trajectory and strategy. Cogent2’s experienced consultants often help clients map out not just the next 2 years but the next 5–10, ensuring the system chosen won’t constrain the business. Different systems suit different phases of growth, and as we like to say, our experienced team have seen it all before – the key is picking a solution that aligns with where you’re headed.

Customer Sentiment and Ratings

It’s insightful to look at what real users of NetSuite and Business Central say about each system. Below we summarise customer sentiment from popular review platforms (G2, Capterra, TrustRadius), including average star ratings and some representative quotes:

Oracle NetSuite – User Satisfaction: Overall, NetSuite enjoys positive reviews for its rich feature set and reliability, though users note it can be complex. On G2, NetSuite is rated 4.1 out of 5 (based on ~4,300 reviews), and on Capterra it has 4.2 out of 5 (based on ~1,760 reviews). Users frequently praise NetSuite’s comprehensive capabilities: “NetSuite is a very powerful platform, capable of handling many situations a business goes through, especially in periods of growth.” Many like having an all-in-one solution – “accessing a wide range of ERP tools in one place is what I benefit most” – which speaks to consolidation of systems. Reporting and visibility get special mention, as one finance officer puts it: “The ease of using reports and saved searches… I like the ability to easily switch between sets of financials.” Another operations reviewer noted how NetSuite became “our backbone for global logistics ops… we tore down silos among our teams and regions. It’s even easier now to reconcile stock, monitor vendor performance, and keep margins tight.” This highlights NetSuite’s impact on operational efficiency and data transparency.

On the flip side, users do point out drawbacks: The most common sentiments are about customisation complexity and cost. For example, “Modding is time-consuming and developer-supported. Integrations with niche tools were not always plug-and-play – we had to build some connectors.” Also, new users can find the system overwhelming at first – “Not a plug and play solution” and “extensive permissions… can be confusing”. Small businesses sometimes feel NetSuite is “too much” for them (with one reviewer saying it can be overkill for <£3m revenue businesses). NetSuite’s customer support gets mixed reviews; some praise the dedicated account managers, others wish for faster helpdesk responses. In terms of performance, most users find it fast and reliable, but a few mention that certain areas (like the Sandbox environment or peak time processing) could be slow. Overall, NetSuite users tend to rate its features highly (often 4 or 5 stars for functionality) but might rate ease-of-use a bit lower until they become familiar with it. TrustRadius gives NetSuite an 8.1 out of 10 with “Top Rated” status in ERP, indicating strong satisfaction especially among mid-market users.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central – User Satisfaction: Business Central also receives largely positive feedback, particularly for its usability and integration. On G2, Business Central stands around 4.0 out of 5 (with ~888 reviews), and on Capterra it’s about 4.1 out of 5 (albeit from a smaller review count ~200). Users appreciate its modern interface and Microsoft familiarity: “It’s great for any business and team work, with access to all Office tools… suitable for hybrid and remote working.” Integration is a recurring theme: “Integrates well with Microsoft 365, secure, cloud-based, easy to manage, supports extensions, and works great with Power Platform tools.” This underscores one of BC’s strongest points – if you live in Outlook, Excel, Teams, having your ERP connected feels natural. Reviewers also often mention that Business Central is easy to adopt (once trained) and improves efficiency: “Dynamics 365 was very easy to setup. Customer support was fantastic… It improves efficiency, it improves decision making by giving real time performance metrics.” For many, the move to Business Central is a significant upgrade from legacy systems, and they find the system logical and the learning curve reasonable.

On the critical side, Business Central users point out that heavy customisation requires developer skills – “Limited customization without AL dev skills; steep learning curve for new users [for advanced features].” In other words, a basic user can do a lot, but to really bend the system, you need a developer or partner. Some small businesses mention initial implementation challenges: “Be transparent about the initial learning curve and potential costs associated with implementation and customization… challenging for small businesses with limited budgets.” – suggesting that while the software is reasonably priced, getting it set up optimally isn’t free of effort. Another common sentiment is about user interface quirks: e.g., “There are times when I can access it on the browser but error messages keep appearing on mobile, which is annoying.” and some find the navigation not as straightforward until you adjust (the Role Explorer helps, but it’s a different paradigm if you’re used to old NAV or other systems). In terms of support, since BC is sold via partners, customer service quality can depend on the partner. Some reviews praise support, others cite slow responses – a mixed bag likely reflecting the ecosystem. Performance-wise, very few complain about speed; BC is generally described as fast, except when over-customised as noted earlier. TrustRadius gives Business Central a score of 7.8 out of 10, slightly lower than NetSuite’s, likely reflecting that BC users are a bit more lukewarm on certain aspects like out-of-the-box feature depth (some mention needing add-ons for things they expected standard).

To illustrate sentiment, here are a couple of real user quotes that capture the overall mood:

• “NetSuite enabled us to speed up financials, inventory and purchasing… real-time dashboards to see status in every warehouse, making decisions off live data.” – NetSuite user in Supply Chain.

• “We believe in the product. We love it so much that we fully integrated it into our own operations. That speaks volumes about the confidence we have in the platform’s ability to deliver.” – NetSuite user (who is also a partner) on G2.

• “Overall, Business Central is a powerful, scalable ERP that’s easy to manage and integrates well, but requires training and dev skills for full potential.” – Business Central user (IT Specialist).

• “It’s an all-in-one solution that’s easy to use and adapt… unlikely that I will switch to another competitor as there are barely any.” – Business Central user (Account Manager).

• “Customer support tends to be slow when something goes wrong.” – Business Central user, on cons.

• “Unavailability of a freemium version of NetSuite is the only challenge I got.” – NetSuite user (Finance) (implying they wished for a trial or free edition – NetSuite doesn’t really have one, whereas BC offers a trial).

In aggregate, customers of both products are achieving their goals – getting better visibility, automating processes, and preparing for growth. NetSuite’s users emphasize its comprehensive power and how it becomes indispensable (despite some complexity), while Business Central’s users emphasize ease and integration (with some capability gaps that can be filled with effort). Both have loyal advocates and are rated highly in their category. The star ratings (hovering around 4.0–4.2 out of 5 for both) show that neither is a flop – in fact, they’re among the top-tier ERPs in satisfaction. It often comes down to whether the strengths align with your business’s priorities.

Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for Your Retail Business

NetSuite and Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central are both proven solutions for retailers operating in multi-system, eCommerce-centric environments. They each have distinct strengths:

• NetSuite excels in providing a rich, unified platform with deep functionality across the board. It’s a great fit if you need an ERP that can handle complex processes, multi-entity operations, and end-to-end visibility with minimal reliance on external systems. Retailers poised for rapid growth or operating internationally often gravitate to NetSuite for its scalability and comprehensive suite (financials, inventory, CRM, etc. all in one). The trade-off is a higher upfront investment and the need for careful implementation to master its complexity – but once optimised, NetSuite can drive significant performance improvements by unifying data and automating workflows, as evidenced by many successful deployments.

• Business Central, on the other hand, shines with usability, flexibility, and ecosystem connectivity. It’s ideal for retailers who want an agile system that plays nicely with other Microsoft tools and who maybe prefer a more modular, cost-effective approach. If you value quick user adoption, a modern interface, and leveraging tools like Power BI and Power Automate to extend your ERP, Business Central is very attractive. It tends to offer excellent value and lower total cost of ownership for small to mid-sized retailers, while still scaling into mid-market with the right enhancements. The key is that you might use a few more add-ons or integrations to achieve everything – which, with an iPaaS in place, is perfectly manageable. Business Central’s focus on integration architecture (being part of the Power Platform) aligns well with an embedded iPaaS strategy, ensuring your Shopify store, your warehouse system, and your ERP all communicate seamlessly for a ready-for-scale tech ecosystem.

In terms of practical outcomes: Either system, implemented well, can help a retailer streamline operations, control costs, and enable growth. NetSuite might do so by consolidating disparate systems into one, eliminating duplicative data silos (saving costs on maintenance and reducing errors). Business Central might do so by fitting naturally into your existing workflows and improving team productivity (saving costs on training and leveraging existing Microsoft skills in-house). Performance-wise, both can handle the demands of eCommerce and omnichannel retail – but they must be configured with integration best practices so that high order volumes or inventory syncs don’t overwhelm processes. Cogent2’s role often involves ensuring the ERP + iPaaS architecture is optimised: for example, implementing queue mechanisms, scalable data flows, and fine-tuned customisations so that whether it’s Black Friday or an ordinary Tuesday, your ERP and integrated systems perform reliably at speed.

Finally, when choosing between NetSuite and Business Central, consider your company’s DNA and strategic roadmap. Are you a Microsoft-first organisation that will exploit synergies between Dynamics, Office, and Azure? Or are you looking for a stand-alone ERP solution with a vast third-party ecosystem and Oracle’s backing? Also consider your internal resources: do you have (or plan to have) a strong admin/dev team to harness NetSuite’s power, or do you prefer to keep things simpler and lean on familiar tools for extension?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer – both NetSuite and Business Central are leaders for good reason. The best choice is the one that aligns with your business processes and growth plans. Many retailers even consult with independent experts (like Cogent2) to run an evaluation or pilot, ensuring they select the platform that will support their needs not just today but years down the line. Whichever you choose, investing in a proper implementation and integration architecture will be key to unlocking the full benefits. With the right partner and approach, you can expect improved performance (faster processes, better data), cost control (by automating manual work and avoiding inefficiencies), and a scalable tech ecosystem that’s ready for whatever the future holds – be it international expansion, omni-channel complexity, or the next big wave in retail.

Remember: The goal isn’t just to implement an ERP, but to elevate your operations. Both NetSuite and Business Central can be the engine that drives your retail business forward – the decision is which engine fits best under your hood. And if you need guidance on that journey, we’re here to help, every step of the way, with a mission to “go deep” and be extremely helpful in finding the right solution for your unique needs.