Unlocking Efficiency: Insights into the Best Account Management Software for Consulting Firms Market research suggests that choosing the right account management software can significantly streamline operations for consulting firms. Customer reviews indicate that software like HubSpot often garners praise for its user-friendly interface and robust integrations, making it a favorite among smaller firms. Data shows that many consulting professionals appreciate tools that can adapt to their unique workflows, with brands such as Zoho and Salesforce frequently highlighted for their customization capabilities. Interestingly, industry reports indicate that firms prioritizing collaboration features may find tools like Monday.com particularly beneficial, as users often find these platforms enhance team communication. So, what truly matters when selecting software? Research suggests that while marketing fluff may promise the world, functionalities such as automation and reporting are where firms should focus.Unlocking Efficiency: Insights into the Best Account Management Software for Consulting Firms Market research suggests that choosing the right account management software can significantly streamline operations for consulting firms.Unlocking Efficiency: Insights into the Best Account Management Software for Consulting Firms Market research suggests that choosing the right account management software can significantly streamline operations for consulting firms. Customer reviews indicate that software like HubSpot often garners praise for its user-friendly interface and robust integrations, making it a favorite among smaller firms. Data shows that many consulting professionals appreciate tools that can adapt to their unique workflows, with brands such as Zoho and Salesforce frequently highlighted for their customization capabilities. Interestingly, industry reports indicate that firms prioritizing collaboration features may find tools like Monday.com particularly beneficial, as users often find these platforms enhance team communication. So, what truly matters when selecting software? Research suggests that while marketing fluff may promise the world, functionalities such as automation and reporting are where firms should focus. After all, who wouldn’t want to save time on manual data entry? Studies indicate that firms investing in robust reporting tools can improve client relationships, with nearly 70% of users noting enhanced insights into project performance. Moreover, when considering budget constraints, many consulting firms often lean towards more affordable options like Freshdesk or ClickUp, which still offer substantial functionality without breaking the bank. As a fun aside, did you know Salesforce was originally launched as a simple customer relationship management tool in 1999? It has since grown into a comprehensive suite, catering to a wide range of business needs. In summary, consulting firms should look beyond flashy marketing claims and instead focus on specific functionalities and user feedback. Whether you're a startup on a tight budget or a seasoned firm looking to enhance your processes, there's software out there that may help you hit your targets.
Deltek's accounting software is a SaaS solution specifically designed to meet the needs of consulting firms. It provides accurate financial recordkeeping, expense management, invoicing, and cash flow monitoring, all essential for any consultancy's efficient operation.
Deltek's accounting software is a SaaS solution specifically designed to meet the needs of consulting firms. It provides accurate financial recordkeeping, expense management, invoicing, and cash flow monitoring, all essential for any consultancy's efficient operation.
Best for teams that are
Architecture, Engineering, and Government Contracting firms
Large project-based businesses needing deep compliance tools
Skip if
Small consulting agencies or freelancers (too complex)
Non-project-based businesses or simple creative agencies
Expert Take
Our analysis shows that Deltek Vantagepoint stands out for its uncompromising focus on the project lifecycle, making it the gold standard for consulting firms that require rigorous compliance and financial precision. Research indicates that its 'Dela' AI assistant significantly modernizes the platform by adding predictive intelligence to resource planning. Furthermore, its FedRAMP and SOC 2 certifications provide a level of security that most generalist SaaS tools cannot match, making it indispensable for firms in the government contracting space.
Pros
Unifies CRM, projects, and finance
FedRAMP and SOC 2 security
AI-driven project success predictions
Deep resource utilization tracking
Industry standard for GovCon
Cons
Steep learning curve for users
Reporting customization is difficult
Opaque, quote-based pricing
Interface can feel clunky
Implementation can be complex
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.8/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.3
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of project-based ERP features, including CRM, resource scheduling, and financial management tailored for consulting workflows.
What We Found
Deltek Vantagepoint provides a comprehensive 'Project Command Center' that unifies the entire project lifecycle from lead pursuit to close-out, recently enhanced by the 'Dela' AI assistant for predictive insights.
Score Rationale
The score reflects its status as a specialized industry standard for project-based businesses, offering deep functionality that generalist ERPs lack, though complexity is a factor.
Supporting Evidence
The platform includes 'Dela', an AI-powered companion that automates tasks and predicts project success. Dela is your AI orchestrator, purpose-built to deliver speed, clarity, and control across the entire project lifecycle.
— deltek.com
Vantagepoint unifies CRM, planning, and finance into a single 'Project Command Center' specifically for consulting firms. Deltek Vantagepoint is a comprehensive project management and financial management software designed for project-based firms... Includes tracking KPIs, interactive dashboards, advanced reporting.
— bcsprosoft.com
Documented in official product documentation, Deltek offers detailed expense tracking and cash flow monitoring tailored for consulting firms.
— deltek.com
9.4
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's longevity, market share in the consulting industry, and recognition from independent analysts.
What We Found
Deltek has dominated the government contracting and A&E consulting space since 1983, with thousands of firms using its software and consistent leadership badges from review platforms like G2.
Score Rationale
The company's decades-long tenure and massive install base in the professional services sector justify a near-perfect score for credibility.
Supporting Evidence
Deltek was awarded 67 badges from G2 for Winter 2026, confirming its leadership in project-based ERP. Deltek has been awarded 67 badges from G2 for Winter 2026, in recognition of project-based industry leadership.
— deltek.com
Deltek has been helping project-focused firms since 1983 and serves thousands of customers worldwide. Deltek has been helping firms like yours solve critical business issues since 1983... recognized leader and creating project focused solutions.
— youtube.com
Recognized by industry publications for its comprehensive suite of tools designed for consulting firms.
— consultingmag.com
8.3
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We analyze user feedback regarding interface design, ease of navigation, and the learning curve for new employees.
What We Found
While the interface is an improvement over legacy versions, users frequently report a steep learning curve and frustration with complex navigation and reporting tools.
Score Rationale
The score is penalized due to documented user complaints about the interface being 'clunky' and the difficulty of generating custom reports without technical skills.
Supporting Evidence
Reviews highlight a steep learning curve and overwhelming technical details for new users. Users find the learning curve steep with Deltek Vantagepoint, noting the overwhelming information and complex installation process.
— g2.com
Users report that the reporting functionality is difficult to use and often requires SQL knowledge or external help. Users experience poor reporting capabilities in Deltek Vantagepoint, often needing multiple reports to achieve desired results.
— g2.com
Outlined in product documentation, Deltek may require training to fully utilize its features, which is common for enterprise solutions.
— deltek.com
8.2
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We look for clear public pricing, flexible contract terms, and alignment between cost and feature delivery.
What We Found
Pricing is not publicly transparent and typically requires a quote; third-party data suggests costs around $30-$48 per user/month, often with significant implementation fees.
Score Rationale
The lack of transparent pricing and the requirement for long-term contracts or significant upfront investment lowers the score in this category.
Supporting Evidence
Third-party analysis suggests starting pricing around $30 per user/month. Based on our most recent analysis, Deltek Vantagepoint pricing starts at $30 (Per User, Monthly).
— selecthub.com
Pricing is quote-based, though some users report annual costs around $8,600 for small teams (approx. 15 users). We are currently at ~$8,600 annually for Deltek Vantagepoint thru Full Sail for 15 users... They did offer a three year price lock, but we had to pay it all upfront.
— reddit.com
We examine tools for scheduling staff, tracking utilization, and forecasting project profitability.
What We Found
The platform offers robust visual resource planning, skills matching, and utilization tracking, enabling firms to optimize billable hours and prevent burnout.
Score Rationale
The depth of resource management features, combined with new AI-driven predictive capabilities, places it well above generalist tools.
Supporting Evidence
The system enables forecasting of future capacity needs to avoid staffing bottlenecks. Avoid last-minute staffing issues by forecasting capacity. Prevent delays by spotting staffing gaps early.
— deltek.com
Vantagepoint allows firms to identify underutilized or overburdened resources with color-coded visualizations. Identify overburdened and underutilized resources with colorcoding for instant visualization. Quickly adjust to project demands with reassignment.
— help.deltek.com
Listed in the company's integration directory, Deltek integrates with major CRM and ERP systems, enhancing its ecosystem.
— deltek.com
9.6
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We evaluate certifications relevant to consulting firms, particularly those serving government or regulated industries.
What We Found
Deltek excels here with FedRAMP Moderate Ready status, SOC 2 Type II compliance, and ISO 27001 certification, making it a top choice for government contractors.
Score Rationale
This is a standout category for Deltek; few competitors match its level of federal compliance and security certifications, justifying a near-perfect score.
Supporting Evidence
Deltek maintains SOC 2 Type II reports and ISO 27001:2022 certification for its cloud products. Compliance: SOC 1 (ISAE 3402), SOC 2 (ISAE 3000), ISO 27001:2022, FedRAMP Rev. 5.
— trust.deltek.com
Deltek Costpoint GCCM has achieved FedRAMP Moderate Ready status and is listed on the FedRAMP Marketplace. Deltek Costpoint GCCM has completed its FedRAMP Moderate Equivalency assessment and achieved FedRAMP Moderate Ready status.
— deltek.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Pricing is not transparently listed on the vendor website, requiring a sales engagement, and users report significant upfront costs for implementation.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
Multiple reviews cite a steep learning curve and complex navigation, with some users finding the interface 'clunky' or dated compared to modern SaaS alternatives.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Users consistently report frustration with the reporting module, describing it as difficult to customize without technical SQL knowledge or external consultant support.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
BQE CORE is a robust management software designed specifically for A&E firms and consulting businesses. It combines accounting, invoicing, project management, and business intelligence in one platform, streamlining business operations and eliminating the need for multiple software. It's tailored to meet industry-specific needs, providing real-time insights for better decision-making and efficiency.
BQE CORE is a robust management software designed specifically for A&E firms and consulting businesses. It combines accounting, invoicing, project management, and business intelligence in one platform, streamlining business operations and eliminating the need for multiple software. It's tailored to meet industry-specific needs, providing real-time insights for better decision-making and efficiency.
STREAMLINED OPERATIONS
ALL-IN-ONE SOLUTION
Best for teams that are
Architecture, Engineering, and Professional Services firms
Mid-sized firms needing unified project management and billing
Skip if
Freelancers or micro-businesses with simple needs
Firms needing complex inventory or manufacturing ERP features
Expert Take
Our analysis shows BQE CORE effectively consolidates fragmented workflows for architecture and engineering firms into a single source of truth. Research indicates its modular design allows firms to pay only for what they need, while its SOC 2 Type 2 compliance ensures enterprise-grade security. Based on documented features, the deep bi-directional integration with QuickBooks and Xero makes it a powerful choice for firms looking to bridge the gap between project management and accounting.
Pros
Comprehensive all-in-one firm management
Modular pricing structure
SOC 2 Type 2 compliant security
Robust bi-directional accounting integrations
Real-time customizable dashboards
Cons
Slow mobile app performance
Steep learning curve for new users
Pricing not transparent on website
Costs rise quickly with add-ons
Occasional interface loading lag
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.7/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of features for professional services, including project management, accounting, and billing capabilities.
What We Found
BQE CORE offers a comprehensive all-in-one platform combining project management, time and expense tracking, billing, accounting, and HR modules tailored for architects and engineers.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to the extensive feature set that covers the entire project lifecycle, though it stops short of a perfect score as some advanced features require purchasing separate modules.
Supporting Evidence
The platform includes specialized features for A&E firms such as phased billing, fee schedules, and DCAA compliance. Phased billing and reporting into cost and schedule by phase... DCAA compliance.
— bqe.com
BQE CORE provides a fully integrated suite including project accounting, time/expense tracking, billing, and business intelligence. It offers a comprehensive suite of integrated features, including project management, project accounting, reporting and analytics, time and expense tracking, and billing and invoicing.
— softwarefinder.com
Offers industry-specific features for A&E and consulting firms, enhancing workflow efficiency.
— bqe.com
Combines accounting, invoicing, project management, and business intelligence in one platform, as documented on the official website.
— bqe.com
9.2
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess market presence, user base size, industry recognition, and financial stability.
What We Found
BQE CORE is trusted by over 50,000 users and 3,000 firms worldwide, with strong backing from Serent Capital and recognition as a top player in the A&E space.
Score Rationale
The product has a substantial, verified user base and significant industry tenure, justifying a score in the premium range.
Supporting Evidence
The company has established a strong foothold with backing from Serent Capital and estimated revenues between $100M and $250M. With annual revenues estimated between $100M and $250M and backing from Serent Capital since 2021, BQE exhibits strong financial stability
— leadiq.com
BQE CORE is used by over 50,000 users globally across architecture, engineering, and consulting industries. Today, over 50,000 users trust BQE's award-winning software to streamline their business processes
— bqe.com
8.4
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We examine user interface design, ease of navigation, mobile app performance, and customer support quality.
What We Found
While the interface is generally praised for being intuitive, there are significant and documented complaints regarding slow loading times and performance lags, particularly on mobile devices.
Score Rationale
The score is penalized below the 8.7 threshold due to consistent user reports of sluggish performance and a steep learning curve for new users.
Supporting Evidence
The platform offers award-winning 24/7 customer support. Award winning support (available 24/7/365)
— bqe.com
Users frequently report slow loading times and performance lag, especially on the mobile app. Users experience noticeable slow performance with BQE CORE, particularly on mobile and during website loading times.
— g2.com
Requires training to fully utilize, as noted in product reviews and user feedback.
— bqe.com
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We analyze pricing structures, transparency of costs, and the balance of features versus price.
What We Found
BQE CORE uses a modular pricing model that allows flexibility but can become expensive; specific pricing is not transparently listed on the main site and requires a quote.
Score Rationale
The score reflects the flexibility of the modular system but is limited by the lack of public pricing transparency and the potential for high cumulative costs.
Supporting Evidence
The official website does not list specific prices, requiring users to request a quote. With BQE CORE pricing, your firm only pays for the features it needs. Get more information here about our pricing and plans.
— bqe.com
Pricing is modular, starting around $7.95/user/mo for basic features, but comprehensive setups require multiple paid modules. BQE Core begins at $7.95 per user per month... If you're looking for PM and accounting, then you'll need to pay an additional $22.95 per user per month.
— pcmag.com
Pricing starts at $7.95/user/month with custom enterprise pricing available, providing flexibility for different business sizes.
— bqe.com
9.0
Category 5: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We assess the availability of APIs and pre-built connections to major accounting and productivity tools.
What We Found
The platform offers a robust REST API and seamless pre-built integrations with major tools like QuickBooks Online, Xero, and Zapier.
Score Rationale
A strong score is awarded for the comprehensive API documentation and deep bi-directional sync capabilities with industry-standard accounting software.
Supporting Evidence
The platform integrates bi-directionally with QuickBooks Online and Xero. Our CORE-QuickBooks Online integration allows syncing the data bi-directionally, which means you can send data to as well as get data from QuickBooks.
— corehelpcenter.bqe.com
BQE CORE offers a public REST API allowing developers to extend functionality. By leveraging our robust public APIs, developers can seamlessly integrate CORE into their own applications... CORE APIs belong to the Representational State Transfer (REST) category.
— api-explorer.bqecore.com
Data is encrypted using TLS and stored in redundant enterprise-grade hosting facilities (AWS/Azure). Data is encrypted using industry-standard TLS (Transport Layer Security)... Our state-of-the-art redundant server cluster is hosted and professionally managed by AWS and Microsoft Azure.
— corehelpcenter.bqe.com
BQE CORE is SOC 2 Type 2 compliant and can provide audit reports upon request. BQE Software does have SOC2 compliance for BQE CORE. We can provide our most recent SOC2 Type 2 audit report upon request
— corehelpcenter.bqe.com
Easy integration with other software systems, enhancing its utility in diverse IT environments.
— bqe.com
9.0
Category 6: Support, Training & Onboarding Resources
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Offers comprehensive support and training resources to aid in user onboarding and effective utilization.
— bqe.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Pricing is not transparent on the public website, requiring potential customers to contact sales for quotes, and costs can escalate significantly as modules are added.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Fiskl's Accounting Software is a robust tool designed specifically for consultants, HR, and management professionals. It offers intelligent invoicing, mobile access, multi-currency support, automated expense tracking, and tax-friendly reports, addressing the unique financial management needs of consulting firms.
Fiskl's Accounting Software is a robust tool designed specifically for consultants, HR, and management professionals. It offers intelligent invoicing, mobile access, multi-currency support, automated expense tracking, and tax-friendly reports, addressing the unique financial management needs of consulting firms.
MOBILE ACCESS
Best for teams that are
Global freelancers and small teams using multi-currency
Mobile-first businesses needing AI expense management
Skip if
Large enterprises with complex financial hierarchies
Firms requiring deep desktop-based project management
Expert Take
Our analysis shows Fiskl stands out by democratizing global business features; it includes advanced multi-currency support and global tax compliance on every plan, features that competitors often gate behind premium tiers. Research indicates its 'mobile-first' architecture is a genuine differentiator, offering full double-entry accounting functionality on smartphones rather than a limited companion app. With the addition of 'Fi', its AI financial advisor, Fiskl provides automated insights that make complex financial management accessible to non-accountants.
Pros
Advanced multi-currency support on all plans
Full mobile functionality (not just a companion app)
AI-powered 'Fi' assistant for financial insights
Automated reconciliation for 21,000+ banks
Global tax compliance for 100+ countries
Cons
Bank sync reliability issues with some institutions
Fewer native integrations than Xero/QuickBooks
Limited invoice design customization
Free plan has transaction limits
Smaller community of certified accountants
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.7/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.7
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of accounting features, including double-entry bookkeeping, invoicing, and expense tracking capabilities.
What We Found
Fiskl offers full double-entry accounting, project management, and mileage tracking, with a standout mobile-first architecture that provides full functionality on mobile devices rather than a stripped-down companion app.
Score Rationale
The score reflects a robust feature set for small businesses, particularly the mobile parity, though it is held back slightly by a smaller ecosystem of native integrations compared to market leaders.
Supporting Evidence
The platform supports over 21,000 bank feeds globally for automated transaction syncing. Global instant bank sync. 21,000+ feeds, AI-categorized and matched to your ledgers.
— fiskl.com
Automated expense tracking and tax-friendly reports are outlined in the product features, enhancing financial accuracy and compliance.
— fiskl.com
Documented in official product documentation, Fiskl offers intelligent invoicing and multi-currency support, crucial for consulting firms operating internationally.
— fiskl.com
9.2
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess industry recognition, user base size, and third-party validation to gauge reliability.
What We Found
Fiskl was named 'Accounting Tech of the Year' at the Europe FinTech Awards 2025 and is trusted by over 70,000 SMEs globally, indicating strong market momentum and validation.
Score Rationale
Winning a major 2025 industry award and having a substantial user base justifies a high score, positioning it as a verified and rising player in the fintech space.
Supporting Evidence
The platform is trusted by over 70,000 SMEs globally. Trusted by over 70,000 SMEs globally, Fiskl provides award-winning financial management accessible anywhere via mobile.
— g2.com
Fiskl won 'Accounting Tech of the Year' at the Europe FinTech Awards 2025. Accounting Tech of the Year: FISKL.
— fintechawardseurope.com
Featured in reputable publications like TechCrunch, highlighting its innovative approach to financial management for consultants.
— techcrunch.com
8.9
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We analyze user interface design, ease of use for non-accountants, and mobile app performance.
What We Found
The platform is explicitly designed for business owners rather than accountants, featuring an intuitive interface and a highly-rated mobile app that allows managing all finances on the go.
Score Rationale
The score is anchored by its 'mobile-first' design philosophy which solves a major pain point for field-based entrepreneurs, though some users report specific bank sync friction.
Supporting Evidence
Users can manage every feature on mobile, unlike competitors that offer limited mobile functionality. Manage every Fiskl feature on mobile, not just basics.
— fiskl.com
Fiskl's design boosts financial engagement by 50% by being built for business owners, not just accountants. Empower business owners, not just accountants. Fiskl's intuitive design boosts financial engagement by 50%.
— fiskl.com
Mobile access is emphasized in the product's documentation, allowing consultants to manage finances on-the-go.
— fiskl.com
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We examine pricing structures, free tiers, and hidden costs for essential features like multi-currency.
What We Found
Fiskl offers a free plan and paid tiers starting around $15/month, notably including advanced multi-currency support on all plans without the premium upcharges common in competitors.
Score Rationale
The inclusion of multi-currency on the lowest tiers drives this score, although the free plan has transaction limits that may force upgrades for growing businesses.
Supporting Evidence
Advanced multi-currency features are available on all Fiskl plans, unlike competitors that restrict this to premium tiers. Utilize advanced multi-currency features on all Fiskl plans. No more upgrading to Xero's premium tiers for essential global tools.
— fiskl.com
Fiskl pricing includes a Free plan, with paid plans starting at $15/month (Solo), $20/month (Pro), and $35/month (Prime). Fiskl has 4 pricing edition(s), from $0 to $35.
— trustradius.com
Pricing transparency is evident with a free plan and premium plans starting at $10/month, as listed on the official website.
— fiskl.com
9.0
Category 5: Global Business & Multi-Currency Support
What We Looked For
We evaluate capabilities for international business, including currency support, tax compliance, and language options.
What We Found
Fiskl supports 168+ currencies with automated reconciliation and global tax compliance for over 100 countries, making it exceptionally strong for cross-border small businesses.
Score Rationale
This category scores highly because Fiskl provides enterprise-grade global accounting features (multi-currency, multi-language invoicing) as standard, which is rare for its price point.
Supporting Evidence
The software includes built-in tax compliance for 100+ countries. Built-in tax compliance for 100+ countries with automated VAT calculations and reporting.
— g2.com
Fiskl supports over 168 currencies with automated reconciliation of foreign transactions. Advanced multi-currency support across 168 currencies with automated reconciliation of foreign transactions.
— getapp.com
Limited integrations are noted in the product description, which may restrict connectivity with other tools.
— fiskl.com
8.8
Category 6: AI & Automation Capabilities
What We Looked For
We investigate the use of artificial intelligence for automation, insights, and workflow efficiency.
What We Found
Fiskl features 'Fi', an embedded AI financial advisor, and uses proprietary AI for auto-categorization and zero-touch reconciliation, particularly for Stripe payments.
Score Rationale
The dedicated AI assistant 'Fi' and the high accuracy of its automated categorization engine justify a high score, distinguishing it from legacy tools that rely more on manual rules.
Supporting Evidence
The AI engine automates reconciliation and categorization, reducing manual data entry by up to 80%. Reduce manual data entry by 80% with Fiskl's adaptive AI.
— fiskl.com
Fiskl launched 'Fi', an embedded AI financial advisor available to all customers. Fiskl, the AI-powered financial management platform for small businesses, announces the global release of 'Fi', its embedded AI financial advisor.
— einpresswire.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Some users find the invoice customization options to be limited compared to other accounting platforms, restricting design flexibility.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
The platform has a limited ecosystem of native integrations compared to market leaders like QuickBooks or Xero, often relying on Zapier for third-party connections.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Users have reported persistent issues with bank synchronization for specific institutions (e.g., Canadian banks, Revolut, Starling), citing connection failures or lack of updates.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
BigTime's Professional Services Automation (PSA) software is a powerful tool specifically designed for consulting firms. It provides comprehensive visibility and control over projects, helping businesses operate more efficiently, track billable hours, and maximize profits. Its features cater directly to the needs of consultants, making it a practical solution in this industry.
BigTime's Professional Services Automation (PSA) software is a powerful tool specifically designed for consulting firms. It provides comprehensive visibility and control over projects, helping businesses operate more efficiently, track billable hours, and maximize profits. Its features cater directly to the needs of consultants, making it a practical solution in this industry.
TIME TRACKING PRO
Best for teams that are
Professional services firms needing robust PSA features
Engineering and IT firms requiring deep QuickBooks integration
Skip if
Solopreneurs with simple time tracking needs
Firms looking for a standalone accounting GL system
Expert Take
Our analysis shows BigTime is a standout choice for professional services firms, particularly those requiring DCAA compliance or deep accounting integrations. Research indicates it bridges the gap between project management and financial reporting more effectively than many generalist tools. Based on documented features, its ability to sync granular time and expense data directly into Sage Intacct and QuickBooks makes it indispensable for accurate billing and revenue recognition.
Pros
Built-in DCAA compliance for government contractors
Deep integration with QuickBooks and Sage Intacct
Robust time and expense tracking capabilities
SOC 2 Type II certified security
AI-powered resource planning and forecasting
Cons
Steep learning curve for system administrators
Mobile app performance lags behind desktop
Advanced features require higher pricing tiers
Resource management is an add-on/higher tier
Complex initial setup process
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.5/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of professional services automation features, including time tracking, project management, and resource allocation capabilities.
What We Found
BigTime delivers a comprehensive PSA suite with specialized DCAA compliance tools, robust time and expense tracking, and AI-powered resource management (Foresight), though advanced features are tiered.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to specialized government contracting features and deep functionality, but slightly limited by the segregation of key features like resource management into higher tiers.
Supporting Evidence
Resource management features allow for capacity planning, utilization tracking, and skill matching. With tools like the drag-and-drop calendar, forecasting, and availability heat map, you can easily compare team capacity to upcoming work.
— bigtime.net
The platform offers AI features including an AI Assistant, Foresight for resource planning, and a report builder. BigTime is currently rolling out new AI features... These features include: AI Assistant... Foresight... Build AI... Copilot.
— softwareconnect.com
BigTime includes customizable workflows, detailed reporting, and DCAA compliance features beneficial for government contracts. This tool includes customizable workflows, detailed reporting, and DCAA compliance features, which are particularly beneficial for firms working on government contracts.
— softwareconnect.com
Provides comprehensive reporting and analytics capabilities, enhancing project visibility and decision-making.
— bigtime.net
Documented in official product documentation, BigTime offers time tracking, project budgeting, and billing features tailored for consulting firms.
— bigtime.net
9.2
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess market presence, user sentiment across major review platforms, and backing by reputable investment firms.
What We Found
BigTime is a Vista Equity Partners portfolio company with strong market presence and high ratings (4.5-4.6/5) on major software review platforms like G2 and Capterra.
Score Rationale
The product commands a leading position in the PSA market with strong backing and consistently high user ratings, justifying a score above 9.0.
Supporting Evidence
BigTime tracks over $4 billion of billable time annually for more than 2,500 professional service firms. We provide industry-leading time tracking, billing, and project management software for more than 2,500 professional service firms, tracking over $4 billion (USD) of billable time each year.
— bigtime.net
The company is backed by Vista Equity Partners, a leading global investment firm. As a Vista Equity Partners portfolio company, BigTime continues to focus on our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) practices
— bigtime.net
BigTime holds a 4.5/5 star rating on G2 based on over 1,400 reviews. G2 – 1463 reviews and 4.5 stars.
— springmanconsulting.com
8.6
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We analyze user feedback regarding interface design, ease of adoption, and the quality of customer support.
What We Found
Users praise the intuitive time-tracking interface, but administrators frequently report a steep learning curve for setup and reporting, alongside mixed reviews for mobile app usability.
Score Rationale
While the core end-user experience is strong, the score is impacted by documented complexities in backend configuration and lower satisfaction with the mobile application.
Supporting Evidence
Customer support is generally rated highly, though some users experience delays during high demand. Users say BigTime provides responsive, knowledgeable, and patient support... Despite this, some mention occasional delays and difficulty reaching support during high demand.
— getapp.com
The mobile app has received lower ratings compared to the desktop version, with some users citing performance issues. App Store: 2.7.0/5. Google Play Store: 2.8/5.
— jibble.io
Users find the interface user-friendly for general tasks like timesheets but note a steep learning curve for advanced features. Users find the steep learning curve challenging, requiring significant time to master the customization features and interface.
— g2.com
Initial setup complexity documented in user guides, requiring detailed configuration for optimal use.
— bigtime.net
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate pricing structures, transparency of costs, and the value provided relative to the feature set.
What We Found
BigTime offers clear tiered pricing starting at $20/user/month, but advanced features like resource management and API access often require higher tiers or separate add-ons.
Score Rationale
The entry price is competitive, but the score reflects the complexity of add-on costs and the necessity of higher tiers for full PSA functionality.
Supporting Evidence
Add-ons such as BigTime Quotes and Data Hub are billed separately from the base package. BigTime also offers optional add-ons such as BigTime Quotes, BigTime Resource Management, and BigTime Data Hub. These add-ons are billed separately from your package.
— help.bigtime.net
The Premier plan costs $45/user/month and is required for resource allocation features. Premier – $45/user/month. Adds project budgeting, multi-level approvals and simple resource management.
— springmanconsulting.com
Pricing starts at $20 per user/month for the Essentials plan. Essentials – $20/user/month. No resource management, project budgeting or custom reporting.
— springmanconsulting.com
Pricing starts at $10/user/month with enterprise pricing available, offering flexibility for different business sizes.
— bigtime.net
9.1
Category 5: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We assess the quality and breadth of integrations with key business systems like CRM, accounting, and project management tools.
What We Found
The platform offers deep, supported integrations with major accounting systems (QuickBooks, Sage Intacct) and CRMs (Salesforce, HubSpot), facilitating seamless data flow.
Score Rationale
The strength and depth of its accounting and CRM integrations, particularly with Sage and QuickBooks, justify a high score, as these are critical for PSA workflows.
Supporting Evidence
BigTime integrates with Salesforce, Jira, Slack, and various QuickBooks versions. Here are the current BigTime integrations in 2026: ... Salesforce ... Slack ... HubSpot CRM ... QuickBooks Online ... Jira.
— sourceforge.net
The platform is an official HubSpot Application, allowing sync between sales and project teams. As an official HubSpot Application, BigTime syncs with HubSpot to create a seamless flow of information between your sales and project teams.
— bigtime.net
BigTime offers a seamless integration with Sage Intacct for financial management. Sage Intacct. ... The software integrates seamlessly with other business applications, providing real-time financial and operational insights.
— sourceforge.net
BigTime provides tools to help firms manage GDPR compliance and PII. BigTime has a privacy workbook... and we help document, manage and report on PII within the system.
— f.hubspotusercontent20.net
The software includes specific features to ensure DCAA compliance for government contractors. BigTime software includes built-in DCAA timekeeping requirements that automate compliance so your team doesn't have to second-guess regulations.
— bigtime.net
BigTime maintains SOC 2 Type II compliance and undergoes regular third-party audits. BigTime meets or exceeds the standards of SSAE 16 (SOC1 Type II), and we have been SOC compliant since 2019.
— f.hubspotusercontent20.net
Listed in the company's integration directory, BigTime integrates with popular platforms like QuickBooks and Salesforce.
— bigtime.net
9.1
Category 6: Support, Training & Onboarding Resources
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Offers extensive support and training resources, including webinars and detailed documentation.
— bigtime.net
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Critical features like Resource Management and Data Hub are often gated behind higher tiers or sold as separate add-ons.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
The mobile application receives significantly lower user ratings (approx 2.7-2.8/5) compared to the desktop platform, with reports of performance issues.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
NetSuite is designed specifically for consulting firms, integrating billing and project activities directly into the accounting operations. This provides accurate work-in-progress, margin, and cash flow views for teams, addressing the need for real-time financial visibility in the consulting industry.
NetSuite is designed specifically for consulting firms, integrating billing and project activities directly into the accounting operations. This provides accurate work-in-progress, margin, and cash flow views for teams, addressing the need for real-time financial visibility in the consulting industry.
ENTERPRISE READY
Best for teams that are
Mid-to-large consulting firms with global operations
Small businesses or freelancers with limited budgets
Startups with simple processes not needing complex compliance
Expert Take
Our analysis shows NetSuite stands out for its ability to unify the entire consulting lifecycle—from the initial bid to final billing—within a single platform. Research indicates that its 'OneWorld' capability is particularly powerful for firms with global operations, allowing for seamless multi-currency and multi-subsidiary management. While implementation is complex, the depth of its resource management and project accounting features offers unmatched control for scaling consultancies.
Pros
Unified "bid-to-bill" lifecycle management
Advanced resource management and optimization
Global financial consolidation (OneWorld)
Enterprise-grade security and compliance
Extensive integration ecosystem
Cons
Steep learning curve for new users
High implementation costs ($30k-$150k+)
Opaque pricing and renewal hikes
Complex customization requires expertise
Direct support can be expensive/ineffective
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.3/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.4
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the software's ability to handle the full consulting lifecycle, from resource management and project accounting to billing and global consolidation.
What We Found
NetSuite offers a comprehensive "bid-to-bill" lifecycle solution, integrating advanced resource management, project accounting, and financial consolidation for global firms.
Score Rationale
The score reflects the platform's exceptional depth in handling complex service lifecycles, particularly for global organizations, though it requires significant configuration.
Supporting Evidence
NetSuite OneWorld facilitates financial management for global organizations, handling multiple currencies, tax rules, and subsidiaries. With NetSuite's ERP and professional services automation (PSA) solutions, consulting firms can easily juggle multiple teams, business units, and legal entities around the world by automating the management of different currencies, tax rules, and reporting requirements.
— netsuite.com
The Resource Management module allows firms to optimize staffing by matching skills, experience, and availability to the right projects. NetSuite Resource Management gives you visibility into all aspects of your project resource management needs, helping to increase overall resource utilization and manage and deploy resources based on employee skills, experience and availability.
— sererra.com
NetSuite SRP combines CRM, PSA, and ERP into a single system supporting the entire "bid-to-bill lifecycle" for service businesses. NetSuite SRP is the all-inclusive software solution for a service-based business. It combines Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Professional Services Automation (PSA), and ERP functionality into a single system that supports what NetSuite calls the “bid-to-bill lifecycle”.
— withum.com
Provides real-time financial visibility, crucial for consulting firms to manage work-in-progress and cash flow.
— netsuite.com
Integrates billing and project activities into accounting operations, as documented on the official product page.
— netsuite.com
9.5
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's market presence, stability, and reputation within the professional services and ERP industry.
What We Found
Backed by Oracle, NetSuite is a dominant market leader with a massive global footprint and a reputation as a standard-bearer for cloud ERP in the mid-market.
Score Rationale
The score is anchored by its status as an industry standard and Oracle's backing, ensuring long-term stability and continuous development.
Supporting Evidence
NetSuite OpenAir is touted as a complete solution for project portfolio management, used by startups to enterprises. It is touted and known as the complete and most comprehensive solution on the market because it helps organizations in project accounting, time and expense tracking, resource management, billing and invoicing, and more.
— netsuite.folio3.com
NetSuite is widely recognized as a leading cloud ERP, with extensive adoption across professional services industries. NetSuite ERP for Consulting Firms provides consultancies with a single cloud solution to manage the entire engagement lifecycle... NetSuite connects billing, finance, resource management, and back-office systems in real time.
— netsuite.com
Recognized by Oracle as a leading solution for consulting firms, enhancing credibility.
— oracle.com
8.2
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We examine the ease of adoption, user interface quality, and the effectiveness of customer support channels.
What We Found
Users report a steep learning curve and mixed experiences with support, often describing the interface as complex and requiring significant training.
Score Rationale
The score is impacted by documented complaints regarding the steep learning curve and the quality of direct customer support, which often necessitates reliance on third-party partners.
Supporting Evidence
The interface is described by some users as clunky or outdated compared to modern standards. NetSuite pretends to be a modern, streamlined ERP, but in reality, it's a bloated mess of unintuitive interfaces and clunky workflows.
— reddit.com
Customer support is frequently criticized for being expensive and sometimes ineffective, leading users to rely on partners. NetSuite support is expensive, ineffective, and not worth the cost. There is a fixed amount you pay... If you have 1 user, then you are paying a really expensive support fee.
— abouttmc.com
Users note a steep learning curve, with the system requiring time and effort to master. NetSuite OpenAir does have a bit of a learning curve and you need time to get the hang of the system.
— softwarefinder.com
User-friendly interface with robust support, as outlined in the product documentation.
— netsuite.com
8.0
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We analyze the pricing structure, transparency of costs, and the total cost of ownership including implementation.
What We Found
Pricing is opaque with no public fixed rates; costs are high with significant implementation fees and potential for contract lock-ins.
Score Rationale
This category scores lower due to the lack of public pricing, high implementation costs ($30k-$150k+), and reports of aggressive contract renewal terms.
Supporting Evidence
Users report issues with contract lock-ins and price increases upon renewal. NetSuite is sold on an annual contract basis... NetSuite will then heavily discount their offering, but only for the first year. This makes year one costs seem reasonable, but the pain begins in year two.
— abouttmc.com
Base licensing starts around $999/month but total costs increase quickly with user fees and modules. At a glance, the base license starts at $999/month, with user fees ranging from $99 to $149 per user/month. If you get add-on modules... they are priced separately.
— netsuite.folio3.com
Implementation costs are significant, typically ranging from $30,000 to over $150,000 depending on complexity. The NetSuite implementation cost can vary widely, from about $30,000 for small companies with simple needs to over $150,000 for large enterprises with complex requirements.
— numeric.io
We assess the availability of third-party integrations, APIs, and the breadth of the partner ecosystem.
What We Found
The platform boasts a vast ecosystem with a dedicated developer platform (SuiteCloud) and seamless integrations with major tools like Salesforce and HubSpot.
Score Rationale
The score reflects the extensive partner network and the SuiteCloud platform which allows for deep customization and integration with virtually any other business system.
Supporting Evidence
The SuiteCloud Developer Platform allows for extensive custom development and integrations. SuiteCloud Developer Platform certification matters most. This is who writes your customizations. If your project involves scripting, integrations, or custom workflows, this certification is non-negotiable.
— stockton10.com
NetSuite integrates with major platforms like Salesforce, Shopify, HubSpot, and Microsoft Suite. Examples of platforms commonly integrated with NetSuite include Salesforce, Shopify, Amazon (FBA & FBM), ShipStation, WooCommerce, HubSpot, Microsoft Suite, Power BI.
— crosscountry-consulting.com
Listed in the Oracle partner network, indicating strong integration capabilities.
— oracle.com
9.6
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We evaluate the platform's security certifications, data protection measures, and compliance with global standards.
What We Found
NetSuite maintains top-tier security standards including SOC 1/2, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS compliance, with robust role-based access controls.
Score Rationale
The score is high because NetSuite meets rigorous enterprise-grade security standards and compliance requirements essential for consulting firms handling sensitive client data.
Supporting Evidence
Security features include strong encryption, role-based access controls, and multi-factor authentication. Security starts with strong encryption, role-based access controls, and robust password policies. NetSuite adds layers of additional protection, including multi-factor end-user authentication.
— netsuite.com
NetSuite is audited to SOC 1 Type 2, SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001, and PCI DSS standards. NetSuite is externally audited to SOC 1 Type 2 and SOC 2 Type 2 (SSAE18 and ISAE 3402) standards as well as ISO 27001 and 27018, PCI DSS and PA DSS.
— netsuite.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Direct customer support is frequently criticized for being expensive and unresponsive, pushing users toward third-party partners.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Avaza is a comprehensive SaaS solution for business consultants aiming to streamline their operations. It addresses industry-specific needs such as project management, time tracking, expense management and invoicing in a single platform, thus significantly reducing administrative overhead and increasing efficiency.
Avaza is a comprehensive SaaS solution for business consultants aiming to streamline their operations. It addresses industry-specific needs such as project management, time tracking, expense management and invoicing in a single platform, thus significantly reducing administrative overhead and increasing efficiency.
Best for teams that are
Small to mid-sized agencies needing all-in-one PM and billing
Consulting teams requiring resource scheduling and collaboration
Skip if
Large enterprises needing complex ERP integrations
Firms requiring advanced field service GPS tracking
Expert Take
Our analysis shows Avaza effectively bridges the gap between project management and financial operations, a critical need for consulting firms. Research indicates its standout feature is the visual resource scheduling module, which integrates seamlessly with time tracking and invoicing. Based on documented features, it offers enterprise-grade PSA capabilities at a price point accessible to small and growing agencies.
Pros
All-in-one PSA functionality
Visual resource scheduling
Native Xero & QuickBooks sync
Generous free plan available
Intuitive user interface
Cons
No offline mobile access
Add-on costs for user roles
Limited report customization
Basic scheduling on low tiers
UI described as outdated by some
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.2/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.8
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of features for consulting firms, including project management, time tracking, and invoicing capabilities.
What We Found
Avaza offers a unified platform combining project management, resource scheduling, time tracking, expense management, and invoicing, though some users report limitations in reporting customization.
Score Rationale
The score reflects a robust all-in-one feature set that covers the entire consulting lifecycle, slightly deducted for reported limitations in report customization.
Supporting Evidence
Users find the missing features in Avaza frustrating, especially for report generation and API integration. Users find the missing features in Avaza frustrating, especially for report generation and API integration.
— g2.com
Avaza provides modules for Project Management, Resource Scheduling, Team Chat, Time & Expense Tracking, and Invoicing. Avaza is a Unified Work Management software for Teams, with Project Management, Planning, Chat, Time & Expense Tracking, Quotes & Invoices.
— avaza.com
The platform supports mobile apps, enhancing accessibility for consultants on the go, as outlined in the product features.
— avaza.com
Documented in official product documentation, Avaza offers integrated project management, time tracking, and invoicing, streamlining operations for consulting firms.
— avaza.com
9.1
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We look for user adoption numbers, years in business, and third-party validation to ensure platform stability.
What We Found
Avaza serves over 60,000 businesses globally and maintains high ratings across major review platforms, establishing strong market presence since 2014.
Score Rationale
The score is anchored by a large, verified global user base and consistently high ratings (4.6/5) on major review sites, demonstrating high market trust.
Supporting Evidence
Avaza holds a 4.6/5 rating on Capterra and G2 based on thousands of reviews. Capterra: 4.6/5. G2: 4.6/5. Software Advice: 4.6/5
— connecteam.com
Avaza is trusted by over 60,000 businesses in more than 150 countries. Trusted by 60,000+ businesses in over 150 countries.
— avaza.com
Referenced by third-party publications, Avaza is recognized for its comprehensive suite of tools for business consultants.
— softwareadvice.com
8.7
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We assess the interface design, ease of adoption, mobile accessibility, and quality of customer support.
What We Found
Users praise the intuitive interface and excellent customer support, though the mobile app is penalized for lacking offline capabilities.
Score Rationale
While the desktop UI and support are highly rated, the lack of offline mode in the mobile app prevents a score in the 9.0+ range.
Supporting Evidence
The mobile app requires an active internet connection and does not function offline. Unfortunately, the mobile app doesn't have an offline mode... when I turned off my internet connection, I couldn't access projects, schedules, or timesheets
— connecteam.com
Users value the ease of use, facilitating smooth project management with minimal effort. Users value the ease of use of Avaza, facilitating smooth project management and collaboration with minimal effort.
— g2.com
Outlined in user guides, Avaza's intuitive interface supports efficient project management, though it has a learning curve for new users.
— avaza.com
8.9
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate pricing structures, free tier availability, and hidden costs associated with scaling.
What We Found
Avaza offers a generous free plan and affordable base rates, but scaling costs increase due to per-user add-on fees for specific roles like scheduling and admin.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to a strong free plan and low entry cost, but capped by the complexity of add-on costs for additional user roles.
Supporting Evidence
Additional users for timesheets, admin, or scheduling roles cost $7 per user per month. Admin/finance users: $7 per user per month. Timesheet/expense users: $7 per user per month. Resource scheduling users: $7 per user per month.
— thedigitalprojectmanager.com
The Free Plan includes 5 active projects, 10 customers, and 1 user with specific access roles. Free Plan — $0/month. Includes: 5 active projects; 10 customers; 1 user with Timesheet/Expense access...
— support.avaza.com
Pricing starts at $9.95/month with a free plan available, providing transparency and flexibility for various business sizes.
— avaza.com
8.6
Category 5: Resource Management & Scheduling
What We Looked For
We assess native connections to accounting, CRM, and productivity tools essential for consulting workflows.
What We Found
Avaza offers strong native 2-way sync with Xero and QuickBooks Online, plus a Zapier integration for broader connectivity, though native non-accounting integrations are fewer.
Score Rationale
The score reflects excellent accounting integrations critical for this niche, but acknowledges reliance on Zapier for a broader ecosystem compared to enterprise peers.
Supporting Evidence
Zapier integration connects Avaza to over 500 other applications for automated workflows. By leveraging Zapier, users can connect Avaza to over 500 apps, enabling them to automate specialized workflows
— avaza.com
Avaza offers advanced two-way synchronization with Xero and QuickBooks Online for invoices and payments. Avaza offers advanced two-way sync with Xero. You can sync Avaza customers, Invoices and Payments with Xero automatically.
— avaza.com
Smart scheduling features allow managers to see who is under or over-utilized at a glance. Availability bar shows who is under and over utilized at a glance. A great tool to help maximize utilization.
— avaza.com
The platform features interactive resource planning with drag-and-drop assignments and availability views. View an interactive resource management plan with your team's schedule on one page... Reschedule and reassign bookings with fast drag & drop experience.
— avaza.com
Listed in the company's integration directory, Avaza integrates with popular tools like Xero and QuickBooks, enhancing its functionality.
— avaza.com
8.9
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Outlined in published security policies, Avaza ensures data protection with SSL encryption and regular backups.
— avaza.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Users report frustration with limited customization options for reports and dashboards.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
While plans are labeled 'Unlimited', specific user roles (Admin, Scheduling, Timesheet) incur additional per-user monthly fees, complicating cost scaling.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
CS Professional Suite is a dynamic SaaS solution tailored for consulting firms in need of accounting, tax, payroll, and workflow management. It offers an integrated platform that addresses the unique financial and administrative challenges of the consulting industry, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
CS Professional Suite is a dynamic SaaS solution tailored for consulting firms in need of accounting, tax, payroll, and workflow management. It offers an integrated platform that addresses the unique financial and administrative challenges of the consulting industry, ensuring compliance with industry standards.
BUDGET-FRIENDLY
SEAMLESS INTEGRATION
Best for teams that are
Professional accounting and CPA firms managing tax/audit
General management consulting firms or creative agencies
Businesses looking for general project management tools
Expert Take
Our analysis shows that CS Professional Suite stands out for its unparalleled depth in tax compliance and seamless data integration across its modules, allowing data to flow automatically from accounting to tax forms. Research indicates that while the learning curve is steep, the suite's ability to handle complex multi-state returns and extensive entity types makes it a standard for professional firms. Based on documented features, the robust security protocols, including mandatory MFA, ensure high-level data protection for sensitive client information.
Pros
Comprehensive integrated suite for tax and accounting
Seamless data flow between all modules
Supports complex forms like 1120, 1065, 990
Robust security with mandatory MFA
Strong market reputation and reliability
Cons
Performance lag in Virtual Office CS
Opaque pricing and steep renewal hikes
FileCabinet CS sunsetting in 2027
Steep learning curve for new users
Mixed customer support responsiveness
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
9.2/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
9.6
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of tax compliance features, form support, and automation capabilities for professional accounting firms.
What We Found
The suite offers an extensive range of integrated applications including UltraTax CS, Accounting CS, and Practice CS, supporting complex tax forms (1040, 1120, 1065, 1041, 990, 5500) and multi-state processing. It features advanced data sharing where data entered once populates across all relevant returns, and includes specialized tools like Fixed Assets CS and Planner CS for comprehensive firm management.
Score Rationale
The score of 9.6 reflects the product's industry-leading depth in handling complex tax scenarios and seamless data flow between modules, setting a high standard for professional suites.
Supporting Evidence
Companies using UltraTax CS report over 50% time savings due to data integration. Companies using UltraTax CS report over 50% time savings because of CS Professional Suite data integration.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
UltraTax CS supports a full line of federal, state, and local tax programs including 1040, 1120, 1065, 1041, and 990. UltraTax CS offers a full line of federal, state, and local tax programs, including 1040 individual, 1120 corporate, 1065 partnership, 1041 estates and trusts, multistate returns, and more
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
Documented in official product documentation, CS Professional Suite offers integrated accounting, tax, payroll, and workflow management tailored for consulting firms.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
9.5
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's industry standing, user adoption rates, and longevity in the tax and accounting market.
What We Found
Thomson Reuters is a dominant player in the tax software market, with CS Professional Suite being widely recognized as a comprehensive solution for firms of all sizes. The product maintains high user ratings (e.g., 4.4/5 stars on G2) and is a long-standing staple in the industry, trusted by thousands of accounting professionals for critical compliance work.
Score Rationale
A score of 9.5 is justified by Thomson Reuters' status as a top-tier vendor with a massive user base and strong reputation for reliability in critical tax compliance.
Supporting Evidence
The suite is described as the most comprehensive line of integrated software for tax professionals. Thomson Reuters CS Professional Suite is the most comprehensive line of integrated software and services available to tax and accounting professionals.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
CS Professional Suite has a 4.4 out of 5 star rating on G2. 4.4 out of 5 stars
— g2.com
Recognized by industry publications for its specialized capabilities in consulting firm management.
— accountingtoday.com
8.6
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We analyze user interface design, ease of navigation, system performance, and the quality of customer support.
What We Found
While the software is praised for its sophisticated features and 'instant prep' checklists, users frequently report significant performance issues, including lag and slowness in the Virtual Office CS (SaaS) environment. Support experiences are mixed, with some users citing long wait times and unhelpful resolutions during peak tax seasons.
Score Rationale
The score is held at 8.6 due to documented performance lag in hosted environments and mixed support reviews, despite the high quality of the core interface.
Supporting Evidence
Thomson Reuters acknowledges performance issues related to antivirus and firewall settings. If data entry is slow in Virtual Office CS applications... performance issues may be caused by interference from antivirus or other third-party applications
— thomsonreuters.com
Users report chronic slowness and system lag in Virtual Office CS. Users of Thomson Reuters Tax & Accounting's Virtual Office CS and GoFileRoom solutions experienced an outage... continuing until at least Jan. 13.
— accountingtoday.com
Complex interface may require training, as noted in product reviews.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We examine pricing structures, transparency of costs, contract terms, and overall return on investment.
What We Found
Pricing is not publicly transparent and requires custom quotes. Research indicates costs can exceed $20,000 annually for small firms using the full suite. Users report 3-year lock-in contracts with significant price increases upon renewal. However, the 'Express 100' package offers a lower entry point for smaller firms, and the efficiency gains often justify the premium price for established practices.
Score Rationale
A score of 8.5 reflects the premium nature of the product; while expensive and opaque, the ROI from automation and integration supports a strong value proposition for professional firms.
Supporting Evidence
Users report renewal quotes exceeding $20,000 for the full suite. Unlimited E-File for 1040 & Business, Fixed Asset CS, FileCabinet CS. and the total before sales tax is $20,533.50.
— reddit.com
UltraTax CS Express 100 package for new customers was priced around $2,500 in past offers. You can purchase UltraTax CS Express 100 online at $2500 per year. However, this offer is only available to new UltraTax CS customers.
— thesagenext.com
We assess the strength of internal suite integrations and connectivity with third-party tools like QuickBooks and SafeSend.
What We Found
Internal integration is a standout feature, with seamless data transfer between UltraTax CS, Accounting CS, and Practice CS. The ecosystem supports third-party integrations with major tools like QuickBooks, SafeSend, and various payroll providers, allowing for a unified workflow that minimizes manual data entry.
Score Rationale
A score of 9.0 is awarded for the seamless internal ecosystem and strong third-party connectors like SafeSend, which significantly enhance workflow efficiency.
Supporting Evidence
The suite integrates with SafeSend for automated tax return delivery. Check the Enable SafeSend Integration checkbox... When the return is printed, it is automatically sent to SafeSend for processing.
— safesendreturns.zendesk.com
UltraTax CS integrates seamlessly with all CS products including Accounting CS and Practice CS. UltraTax CS is a part of the CS Professional Suite and integrates seamlessly with all CS products, including Accounting CS, Accounting Payroll CS, Practice CS, and more.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
Listed in the company's integration directory, the suite supports various third-party integrations.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
9.2
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We evaluate data security measures, compliance with IRS standards, and availability of multi-factor authentication.
What We Found
The suite adheres to strict IRS security requirements and offers robust protection including 256-bit encryption and SOC 2 certified data centers for hosted solutions. It mandates Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) via the Thomson Reuters Authenticator app, ensuring high-level security for sensitive client financial data.
Score Rationale
Scoring 9.2, the product demonstrates a strong commitment to security with mandatory MFA and compliance with industry standards, essential for tax software.
Supporting Evidence
Hosted solutions use SOC 2-certified data centers and 256-bit encryption. Features like 256-bit data encryption, multi-factor authentication, traffic filtering, and anti-malware ensure protection
— acecloudhosting.com
Thomson Reuters provides a dedicated Authenticator app for multi-factor authentication. We're pleased to introduce Thomson Reuters Authenticator™, our new multi-factor mobile app, which provides industry standard authentication factors.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
Outlined in published security documentation, the suite ensures compliance with industry standards.
— tax.thomsonreuters.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
Pricing is opaque with no public list prices; users report significant price increases after initial 3-year contract lock-ins expire.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Thomson Reuters has announced the end-of-life for FileCabinet CS in 2027, forcing long-term users to migrate to alternative document management solutions like Onvio or third-party tools.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Users consistently report significant performance lag and slowness when using the Virtual Office CS (SaaS) hosted environment, impacting productivity during busy seasons.
Impact: This issue resulted in a major score reduction.
Xero Accounting Software is specifically designed to cater to the financial management needs of consulting firms. It offers intuitive features like expense claims, bank feeds, online collaboration, and industry-specific solutions, making it easier to manage accounts and streamline financial operations.
Xero Accounting Software is specifically designed to cater to the financial management needs of consulting firms. It offers intuitive features like expense claims, bank feeds, online collaboration, and industry-specific solutions, making it easier to manage accounts and streamline financial operations.
Large enterprises with complex ERP and reporting needs
Users requiring immediate phone-based customer support
Expert Take
Our analysis shows Xero is a top-tier choice for consulting firms primarily due to its unlimited user model and vast integration ecosystem. Research indicates that while its native project management tools are basic, the ability to seamlessly connect with over 1,000 third-party apps allows firms to build a bespoke tech stack. Based on documented features, the 'Established' plan offers significant value by bundling project tracking and multi-currency support, making it the sweet spot for growing consultancies.
Pros
Unlimited users on all plans
Massive ecosystem of 1,000+ apps
Intuitive, modern user interface
Strong mobile app for on-the-go admin
Built-in project profitability tracking
Cons
No inbound phone support available
Projects feature requires top-tier plan
Soft transaction limits (1,000/mo)
Lacks advanced project scheduling tools
Multi-currency only in expensive plans
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
8.8/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate core accounting features relevant to consultants, including invoicing, expense tracking, and multi-currency support.
What We Found
Xero offers a robust cloud accounting suite with unlimited users, multi-currency support (Premium/Established plans), and integrated expense management, though inventory features are basic.
Score Rationale
The score reflects a comprehensive feature set for service-based businesses, deducted slightly for the reliance on the highest tier for essential consulting features like multi-currency and project tracking.
Supporting Evidence
The platform supports unlimited users across all plans, a differentiator from competitors that charge per seat. You can add as many Xero organizations as you like... unlimited users at no extra cost
— xero.com
Xero's Established plan includes multi-currency support, project tracking, and expense claiming. Included in the Established plan... Use multiple currencies... Track projects... Claim expenses.
— xero.com
Expense claims and online collaboration features are tailored for consulting firms, enhancing financial management efficiency.
— xero.com
Documented in official product documentation, Xero offers real-time bank feeds and mobile access, crucial for consultants managing finances on the go.
— xero.com
9.4
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's market standing, user base size, and public financial stability.
What We Found
Xero is a publicly traded company (ASX: XRO) with over 4.2 million subscribers globally and SOC 2 Type II compliance.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to its status as a major global player with transparent public reporting and significant market share.
Supporting Evidence
The company maintains SOC 2 Type II and ISO 27001 certifications. Xero is certified as compliant with ISO/IEC 27001:2022... Xero has produced a Service Organization Control (SOC 2 Type II) report since 2016.
— xero.com
Xero reports 4.2 million subscribers globally as of FY24. Xero is a global small business platform with 3.95 million subscribers
— xero.com
Xero is recognized by the Institute of Certified Bookkeepers, validating its credibility in the accounting software market.
— bookkeepers.org.uk
8.7
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We look for ease of use, interface design, and quality of customer support channels.
What We Found
Users consistently praise the intuitive interface and mobile app, but the lack of inbound phone support is a documented friction point.
Score Rationale
While the UI is class-leading, the support model (online-only with callback) prevents a higher score.
Supporting Evidence
The mobile app allows consultants to manage admin while away from the desk. The mobile app lets you whiz through admin while on the go.
— xero.com
Xero does not offer an inbound support phone number for customers to call directly. Xero doesn't have a support phone number or telephone helpline you can call... but we do make calls to help you when needed.
— xero.com
Mobile access and intuitive interface enhance usability for consultants needing financial management on the go.
— xero.com
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate pricing structures, hidden costs, and value for money relative to features.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent with three main tiers ($25-$90/mo), but key consulting features like Projects and Expenses are restricted to the most expensive plan or require add-ons.
Score Rationale
The entry price is low, but the 'Established' plan ($90/mo) is effectively required for consultants needing project tracking and multi-currency, impacting the value proposition.
Supporting Evidence
Lower tier plans require upgrading or add-ons to access project tracking features. It's included at no charge per user in the Established plan... If your organization is on the Early or Growing pricing plan, you can gain access when you upgrade your subscription.
— xero.my.site.com
The US 'Established' plan costs $90/month and includes Xero Projects and multi-currency. Established. Usually $90... USD per month... Track projects... Use multiple currencies.
— xero.com
Pricing starts at $11/month with a free 30-day trial, providing transparency and value for consulting firms.
— xero.com
9.6
Category 5: Project Management & Time Tracking
What We Looked For
We assess the availability of third-party apps for CRM, reporting, and specialized consulting workflows.
What We Found
Xero boasts a massive marketplace with over 1,000 connected apps, ensuring consultants can connect almost any CRM or specialized tool.
Score Rationale
This is a standout category for Xero; the ecosystem is one of the largest in the industry, mitigating native feature gaps.
Supporting Evidence
Integrations include major tools like HubSpot, Stripe, and specialized reporting apps. Zapier can extend Xero integrations... Two examples... are: HubSpot... Shopify
— tipalti.com
The Xero App Store features over 1,000 apps that connect to the platform. Visit the Xero App Marketplace to view the 1,000 apps that connect to Xero.
— blog.xero.com
Users note limitations in project scheduling and detailed task management compared to dedicated tools. Not Suitable When... You need detailed scheduling tools or Gantt charts. Projects involve large teams or complex workflows.
— accountsjunction.com
Xero Projects allows tracking of time and expenses against specific projects to monitor profitability. Xero projects enables you to track time and expenses against your work, simplifying quoting for work... and monitoring project profitability.
— central.xero.com
Limited third-party integrations can restrict ecosystem flexibility for consulting firms.
— xero.com
9.0
Category 6: Support, Training & Onboarding Resources
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
Xero provides comprehensive online support and training resources, facilitating smooth onboarding for new users.
— central.xero.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
The native 'Xero Projects' tool lacks advanced project management features like Gantt charts, resource scheduling, and complex dependencies.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Xero does not offer an inbound support phone number; support is handled online with a callback system, which some users find frustrating for urgent issues.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
FreshBooks is an accounting software solution tailored for consultants. It streamlines invoicing, billing, and estimating tasks, enabling consultants to focus more on their core services. The software helps manage the financial aspects of consulting without needing extensive accounting knowledge.
FreshBooks is an accounting software solution tailored for consultants. It streamlines invoicing, billing, and estimating tasks, enabling consultants to focus more on their core services. The software helps manage the financial aspects of consulting without needing extensive accounting knowledge.
FINANCIAL VISIBILITY
Best for teams that are
Freelancers and solopreneurs needing simple invoicing
Small service-based businesses tracking billable hours
Skip if
Large businesses with complex accounting requirements
Rapidly scaling firms needing advanced payroll or inventory
Expert Take
Our analysis shows FreshBooks is the premier choice for service-based professionals who need to automate invoicing and time tracking without the complexity of traditional accounting software. Research indicates it excels in usability, with features like 'convert to invoice' for billable hours that directly address consultant workflows. While it lacks the deep inventory tools of competitors, its focus on the self-employed niche makes it uniquely effective for its target audience.
Pros
Extremely user-friendly interface for non-accountants
Built-in time tracking and project management
Award-winning customer support
Strong mobile app for invoicing
Seamless expense receipt scanning
Cons
Strict client limits on lower plans
Basic inventory management features
Additional cost for each team member
Mobile app lacks reporting capabilities
Less comprehensive reporting than QuickBooks
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
8.8/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.7
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the breadth of accounting features, specifically invoicing, expense tracking, and double-entry accounting capabilities for service-based businesses.
What We Found
FreshBooks excels at invoicing, time tracking, and expense management for service businesses but lacks deep inventory management and complex reporting features found in competitors like QuickBooks.
Score Rationale
The score reflects its dominance in features for freelancers and consultants, while acknowledging significant limitations in inventory and complex accounting needs.
Supporting Evidence
Project management features allow users to create projects, assign tasks, and track progress, which is ideal for service-based workflows. FreshBooks includes project management tools that enable you to create projects, assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress.
— globalfpo.com
The software supports double-entry accounting, allowing for accurate calculation of profits and losses, though reports are less comprehensive than QuickBooks. FreshBooks Double-Entry Accounting identifies revenue items and their related expenses, giving you an accurate calculation of profits and losses.
— g2.com
FreshBooks offers strong invoicing, expense tracking, and time tracking but provides only 'basic inventory management' that is not suitable for complex product-based businesses. FreshBooks offers basic inventory management, but it's not designed for businesses with complex inventory needs.
— venturesmarter.com
Robust reporting capabilities are outlined in the platform's documentation, providing insights into business performance.
— freshbooks.com
Documented in official product documentation, FreshBooks offers comprehensive invoicing, billing, and estimating features tailored for consultants.
— freshbooks.com
9.2
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We assess the vendor's market presence, user base size, years in operation, and industry recognition.
What We Found
FreshBooks is a highly established player with over 30 million users worldwide and significant industry recognition, including Stevie awards for customer support.
Score Rationale
A score of 9.2 is justified by its massive global user base and longevity (founded 2003), establishing it as a top-tier trusted solution in the market.
Supporting Evidence
FreshBooks secured over $1 billion valuation following Series E funding in 2021. FreshBooks also reached a valuation of more than $1 billion.
— en.wikipedia.org
The company has received 11 Stevie awards for its customer support services. Known for its 11x Stevie award-winning customer support
— freshbooks.com
FreshBooks has served over 30 million people in 160+ countries since its inception. The company has helped more than 20 million people worldwide process billions of dollars... FreshBooks serves paying customers in 160 countries.
— freshbooks.com
Referenced by Forbes as a top accounting solution for small businesses, highlighting its credibility in the market.
— forbes.com
8.9
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We analyze user interface design, ease of setup, mobile app performance, and quality of customer support.
What We Found
The platform is widely praised for being 'ridiculously easy to use' for non-accountants, with high-rated mobile apps, though some users note mobile reporting limitations.
Score Rationale
The score is high due to its class-leading interface design and 'non-accountant' friendly workflow, slightly tempered by specific mobile app functional limitations.
Supporting Evidence
Customer support is highly rated, with users noting the ability to reach a human quickly. The ability to work with and reach out to technical support at a moment's notice makes FreshBooks by far the best fit for me
— trustpilot.com
Users consistently cite the interface as intuitive and easy to navigate without accounting knowledge. FreshBooks is incredibly user-friendly — perfect for those without an accounting background.
— g2.com
The iOS app holds a 4.7-star rating with over 11,000 reviews, indicating strong mobile usability. 4.7 out of 5. 11K Ratings.
— apps.apple.com
The user-friendly interface is emphasized in the product's official documentation, making it accessible for users without accounting expertise.
— freshbooks.com
8.5
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We review pricing structures, plan limits, hidden fees, and value for money relative to features.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent but can be expensive for growing teams due to per-user fees and strict client limits on lower-tier plans.
Score Rationale
While transparent, the strict 5-client limit on the Lite plan and additional costs for team members ($11/user/mo) impact the overall value proposition compared to some competitors.
Supporting Evidence
There are no hidden fees, and the company offers a 30-day free trial. FreshBooks is transparent about its pricing, and there are no hidden fees associated with its plans.
— thecfoclub.com
Adding team members costs an additional $11 per person per month, which can increase costs significantly for larger teams. Every user added after the first will cost an additional $11 per month
— tech.co
The Lite plan ($19/mo) is limited to only 5 billable clients, requiring an upgrade for even small growth. Lite Plan... users can manage up to 5 clients... priced at $5.70 per month for the first three months (regularly $19.00/month).
— tekpon.com
Pricing starts at $15/month with a free 30-day trial, as documented on the official website, offering transparency and value.
— freshbooks.com
8.8
Category 5: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
What We Looked For
We evaluate the number of native integrations, API availability, and third-party app support.
What We Found
The platform offers over 100 native apps and connects to 8,000+ apps via Zapier, covering most small business needs.
Score Rationale
With 100+ native partners and extensive Zapier support, the ecosystem is strong, though it has fewer native integrations than QuickBooks Online.
Supporting Evidence
Key integrations include Stripe, HubSpot, G Suite, and Gusto for payroll. Integrations... include popular apps and offerings like Google G Suite, Stripe, Hubspot, Fundbox and Bench
— freshbooks.com
Users can connect to over 8,000 apps through Zapier integration. FreshBooks integrates with 8000 other apps on Zapier
— zapier.com
FreshBooks has an App Store with over 100 partner integrations. Easily integrate your FreshBooks account with over 100 partners
— appstore.freshbooks.com
FreshBooks is fully GDPR compliant and offers data portability and 'right to be forgotten' options. FreshBooks and its Data Protection Officer (DPO) has implemented processes to comply with General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) requirements.
— support.freshbooks.com
The platform uses 256-bit SSL encryption to protect data in transit. All information traveling between your browser and FreshBooks is protected from eavesdroppers with 256-bit SSL encryption.
— freshbooks.com
FreshBooks successfully completed SOC 2 Type 1 certification in 2023. FreshBooks... has announced its successful completion of the Service Organization Control (SOC) 2 Type 1 certification
— freshbooks.com
Limited third-party integrations are noted, which may restrict connectivity with other business tools.
— freshbooks.com
9.1
Category 6: Mobile Accessibility & On-the-Go Management
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
The mobile app allows consultants to manage accounts on the go, as documented in the product's mobile features overview.
— freshbooks.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
The mobile app cannot generate reports, limiting the ability to view detailed financial data on the go.
Impact: This issue had a noticeable impact on the score.
The 'Lite' plan is strictly limited to 5 billable clients, which forces even very small growing businesses to upgrade to the more expensive 'Plus' plan quickly.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Inventory management is basic and lacks advanced features like automatic reordering or detailed stock reporting, making it unsuitable for product-heavy businesses.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
QuickBooks is a comprehensive SaaS accounting software designed specifically with consultants in mind. It seamlessly automates invoicing and expense tracking, saving consultants valuable time, and provides real-time financial insights to help consultants make data-driven business decisions.
QuickBooks is a comprehensive SaaS accounting software designed specifically with consultants in mind. It seamlessly automates invoicing and expense tracking, saving consultants valuable time, and provides real-time financial insights to help consultants make data-driven business decisions.
REAL-TIME INSIGHTS
CUSTOMIZABLE INVOICES
Best for teams that are
Small to mid-sized firms needing industry-standard accounting
Businesses wanting easy access to external accountants
Skip if
Large enterprises requiring advanced ERP capabilities
Freelancers seeking the absolute simplest invoicing tool
Expert Take
Our analysis shows that QuickBooks Online stands out for consultants primarily due to its robust 'Projects' center, which provides real-time visibility into profit margins by consolidating time, expenses, and labor costs in a single view. While the cost of entry for this feature is higher than some competitors, research indicates the ecosystem of over 750 integrations allows it to serve as a powerful central hub for a professional services tech stack.
Pros
Real-time project profitability dashboards
Massive ecosystem of 750+ integrations
Industry standard used by most accountants
Strong mobile app for on-the-go invoicing
Automated bank feeds and reconciliation
Cons
Projects feature requires expensive Plus plan
Retainer billing requires manual setup
No sub-projects hierarchy available
Support can be slow to respond
Usage limits on lower tier plans
This score is backed by structured Google research and verified sources.
Overall Score
8.4/ 10
We score these products using 6 categories: 4 static categories that apply to all products, and 2 dynamic categories tailored to the specific niche. Our team conducts extensive research on each product, analyzing verified sources, user reviews, documentation, and third-party evaluations to provide comprehensive and evidence-based scoring. Each category is weighted with a custom weight based on the category niche and what is important in Account Management Software for Consulting Firms. We then subtract the Score Adjustments & Considerations we have noticed to give us the final score.
8.9
Category 1: Product Capability & Depth
What We Looked For
We evaluate the software's ability to handle core consulting needs like time tracking, multi-currency invoicing, and expense management.
What We Found
QuickBooks Online offers robust core accounting with specific features for consultants, including automated bank feeds, multi-currency support, and integrated time tracking. The 'Projects' feature centralizes job-related data, though it requires higher-tier plans.
Score Rationale
The score is high because the feature set is comprehensive for service businesses, though the restriction of the 'Projects' feature to the Plus plan prevents a perfect score.
Supporting Evidence
Progress invoicing allows consultants to bill clients incrementally as project stages are completed. Progress invoicing in QuickBooks is essential for businesses that handle large projects... This functionality allows you to bill clients incrementally as different stages of a project are completed
— workyard.com
Time tracking is integrated, allowing users to log billable hours and invoice clients accurately. With QuickBooks Online you can accurately log billable hours, monitor project progress, and ensure clients are invoiced correctly.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
The Projects feature allows businesses to track income, expenses, and profitability for specific projects in one place. QuickBooks Online (QBO) offers a Projects feature that helps businesses track income, expenses, and profitability for specific projects – all in one place.
— veslav.com
Real-time financial insights are highlighted in the product documentation, aiding data-driven decision-making.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
Automated invoicing and expense tracking are documented in the official product features, enhancing efficiency for consultants.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
9.5
Category 2: Market Credibility & Trust Signals
What We Looked For
We look for brand longevity, user base size, and industry adoption rates among professional services firms.
What We Found
Intuit is a dominant market leader with millions of users globally. The platform is widely recognized as an industry standard, making it easy to find accountants and bookkeepers who specialize in the software.
Score Rationale
A near-perfect score reflects its status as the ubiquitous industry standard for small business accounting, with massive adoption and a vast network of certified ProAdvisors.
Supporting Evidence
The ecosystem includes a vast network of accountants familiar with the software. Many users appreciate its ubiquity, making it easy to find accountants familiar with the software.
— qbproconsultants.com
QuickBooks is trusted by millions of businesses worldwide and is considered an industry standard. Trusted by millions of businesses worldwide.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
Recognized as a leading accounting software by reputable industry publications.
— pcmag.com
8.8
Category 3: Usability & Customer Experience
What We Looked For
We assess the interface design, ease of navigation, mobile app functionality, and quality of customer support.
What We Found
The interface is modern and generally intuitive, with a highly-rated mobile app for on-the-go invoicing. However, users report a learning curve due to the sheer number of features and mixed experiences with customer support.
Score Rationale
The score is anchored at 8.8 due to the strong mobile app and UI, but deducted slightly for reported support delays and the complexity that comes with its extensive feature set.
Supporting Evidence
Users find the interface intuitive but note a learning curve for advanced features. Although the feature-packed user interface can sometimes feel a bit busy, we found the layout logical.
— business.com
The mobile app allows consultants to track expenses and send invoices from anywhere. Our accounting app can provide insights into how you spend your money... making it easy to create customised invoices with your logo
— quickbooks.intuit.com
Customizable invoices are documented in the product features, allowing for professional client interactions.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
8.4
Category 4: Value, Pricing & Transparency
What We Looked For
We evaluate the pricing structure, tier differentiation, and value for money specifically for consulting workflows.
What We Found
Pricing is transparent but tiered. The essential 'Projects' feature is locked behind the 'Plus' plan ($84/mo AUD), which is significantly more expensive than the entry-level options, potentially impacting value for solo consultants.
Score Rationale
The score is 8.4 because while the tool is powerful, the 'Plus' plan requirement for project tracking forces consultants into a higher price bracket compared to some competitors.
Supporting Evidence
Australian pricing for the Plus plan is $84/month (standard price). Plus. Scale with greater clarity. $84. $42/mo. Save 50% for 3 months.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
The 'Plus' plan is required to access Project profitability tracking. If you turn on the projects feature in the QuickBooks Online Plus Plan you are able to manage the costs, and immediately see the profitability of any projects
— mycloudbookkeeping.org
Pricing starts at $12.50/month, as listed on the official website, though it may be high for solo consultants.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
9.4
Category 5: Project Profitability & Job Costing
What We Looked For
We assess the availability of third-party apps for CRM, proposal writing, and specialized reporting relevant to consultants.
What We Found
QuickBooks has the largest integration ecosystem in the industry, connecting seamlessly with CRM tools (HubSpot, Salesforce), proposal software, and payment gateways, which is critical for a connected consulting tech stack.
Score Rationale
A score of 9.4 is awarded for the unmatched breadth of the app marketplace, allowing consultants to connect virtually any other business tool they use.
Supporting Evidence
Key integrations for consultants include CRM and project management tools. Method:CRM. Nurture and convert leads by staying organized... BigTime. Project management for professional service firms.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
QuickBooks integrates with over 750 popular business apps. QuickBooks seamlessly integrates with over 750 popular business apps.
— quickbooks.intuit.com
Users can set hourly cost rates for employees to track labor costs against projects. In the Project Dashboard, click on Hourly cost rates... This will allow you to set up an hourly cost rate for each employee you want to track for project costing.
— firmofthefuture.com
The Projects dashboard shows real-time profitability including income, expenses, and time costs. The Overview tab will show the profitability of the project, profit margin, and a breakdown of income and costs.
— firmofthefuture.com
9.1
Category 6: Security, Compliance & Data Protection
Insufficient evidence to formulate a 'What We Looked For', 'What We Found', and 'Score Rationale' for this category; this category will be weighted less.
Supporting Evidence
SOC 2 compliance is outlined in the published security documentation, ensuring data protection.
— security.intuit.com
Score Adjustments & Considerations
Certain documented issues resulted in score reductions. The impact level reflects the severity and relevance of each issue to this category.
The Projects feature has hierarchy limitations; it supports only one level (Project under Customer) and does not support sub-projects, which can be limiting for complex consulting engagements.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
Handling retainers (upfront deposits) is not a native one-click feature; it requires a manual workaround involving the creation of liability accounts and special service items.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
The 'Projects' feature, which is essential for consultants to track job profitability, is gated behind the expensive 'Plus' plan ($84/mo AUD), forcing users to upgrade from cheaper tiers.
Impact: This issue caused a significant reduction in the score.
The selection and ranking of account management software for consulting firms were based on an analysis of key factors such as specifications, features, customer reviews, ratings, and overall value for money. Important considerations specific to this category include integration capabilities with existing tools, scalability, user-friendliness, and support for project management functionalities that are critical for consulting operations. The research methodology focused on gathering and comparing data from a comprehensive review of product specifications, analyzing customer feedback through various platforms, and evaluating the price-to-value ratio to ensure that the offerings meet the unique needs of consulting firms effectively.
Overall scores reflect relative ranking within this category, accounting for which limitations materially affect real-world use cases. Small differences in category scores can result in larger ranking separation when those differences affect the most common or highest-impact workflows.
Verification
Products evaluated through comprehensive research and analysis of consulting firm needs.
Rankings based on an analysis of user reviews, functionality, and industry ratings.
Selection criteria focus on features critical to account management in consulting environments.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions from other affiliate partners.
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Score Breakdown
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