Intuit Enterprise Suite vs QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop: 9 Key Differences

Intuit Enterprise Suite (IES) is Intuit’s latest, and arguably most ambitious, offering to hit the markets. It has been commercially available since 17 September and Intuit has yet to put a fixed price tag on the service, leaving pricing to be tailored based on specific business needs and configurations. Interestingly, Intuit already offers a similar-sounding service, QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop, which may lead to confusion among prospective clients.

While certain similarities can be drawn between the two services, they differ significantly in terms of features offered, deployment, target audience, and other criteria. It is essential to understand what sets IES apart from QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop to enable businesses to make an informed decision while choosing a relevant service.

What Is Intuit Enterprise Suite?

As Intuit’s latest and most comprehensive business management platform, IES is designed to cater to large mid-market businesses with complex operational needs. IES integrates an extensive suite of advanced tools with its underlying cloud infrastructure, positioning itself as a complete solution that not only manages financial operations but also extends far beyond, addressing broader business management needs. IES includes integrated marketing automation, customer engagement tools, and multi-entity management, all tailored to support the distinct requirements of service-based industries like construction.

What Is QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise?

QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise is a widely trusted accounting software that serves a broad range of businesses, offering robust features for managing finances, inventory, payroll, and reporting. This QuickBooks version is entirely desktop-based and requires local installation for operation. QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise also excels in handling large volumes of data, with the ability to manage up to one million customers, vendors, and inventory items. It includes valuable features like job costing, time tracking, and order management but lacks the AI-driven insights and deep industry-specific customizations found in newer solutions like IES. QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise is a solid option for businesses seeking a tried-and-true financial management tool.

Comparing Intuit Enterprise Suite and QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop

For those who may not have the time to delve into the detailed comparison of IES and QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop, we have compiled a concise summary in a clear tabular format.

Feature	Intuit Enterprise Suite	QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop
Deployment	Cloud-based	Locally Deployed (also deployable on cloud desktops)
Target Audience	Growing businesses	General audience
Project Management	Profitability monitoring	Only Job costing and Inventory Management capabilities
AI Capabilities	Advanced AI	Limited AI
Customization	Industry-specific	Broad options
Reporting	Multi-dimensional	Customizable reports
User Management	Detailed roles	Custom permissions
Marketing Features	Integrated tools	No integrated features
Customer Support	Dedicated managers	Standard support
Cash Flow Management	Advanced tools	Strong management

1. Deployment

   Intuit Enterprise Suite operates as a fully cloud-based platform, offering flexibility and accessibility for users. In contrast, QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop primarily functions as a desktop application, with optional cloud access available.

2. Target Audience

   IES is specifically crafted for growing businesses that require sophisticated solutions, particularly those in the construction and service sectors. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop, on the other hand, caters to a broader audience but may not provide the same tailored functionalities for specific industries.

3. Project Management Capabilities

   IES places a strong emphasis on project profitability monitoring and provides AI-driven insights tailored for effective project management. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop offers features like job costing and inventory management but does not focus explicitly on detailed project management analytics.

4. AI Capabilities and Automation

   With its advanced AI-powered insights and comprehensive automation, IES streamlines numerous business processes. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop incorporates limited AI features and, while it offers good integration options, it lacks the depth of automation found in IES.

5. Customization and Reporting

   IES stands out with its industry-specific customizations and the ability to generate customizable multi-dimensional reports. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop provides broad customization options and boasts over 200 customizable reports, but it offers less focus on dimensional reporting compared to IES.

6. Financial Management and User Management

   IES excels in advanced multi-entity management and offers detailed user roles and permissions, enabling granular control over financial operations. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop features robust accounting capabilities with custom user permissions, although it lacks the same level of detail as IES.

7. Integrated Marketing Features

   IES includes integrated tools for marketing automation and customer engagement, allowing businesses to connect their marketing efforts directly within the platform. In contrast, QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop does not prominently feature integrated marketing capabilities as part of its core offerings.

   

8. Customer Success Support

   With IES, businesses benefit from dedicated customer success managers who provide personalized support tailored to specific needs. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop offers standard support options but lacks the personalized approach found in IES.

9. Cash Flow and Employee Management

   IES delivers advanced solutions for managing accounts payable and receivable, along with integrated HR and payroll automation. QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop boasts strong cash flow management capabilities and built-in payroll features but has a more limited focus on HR functionalities.

Closing Remarks: Which is Better?

The decision to choose between Intuit Enterprise Suite and QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop hinges on your business requirements and long-term organizational goals. IES stands out as a comprehensive, cloud-based business management solution for businesses that require advanced, industry-specific tools. Its focus on AI functionality, automation, and project management makes it particularly appealing in the construction and professional services sector.

On the other hand, QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop offers a robust, tried-and-true platform that serves a wide array of businesses. Its strengths lie in its extensive accounting features, inventory management, and strong cash flow management tools. While it may not have the same level of customization for specific industries or the advanced support model that IES provides, it remains a reliable choice for businesses seeking a traditional desktop experience.

Ultimately, the best option for your business will depend on your operational requirements, industry demands, and future growth plans. Consider what features are most critical for your success and weigh them against each service’s strengths to make an informed decision. Additionally, for businesses looking to leverage QuickBooks in the cloud, Apps4Rent, an Intuit Authorized Hosting Provider, offers reliable QuickBooks Enterprise Desktop hosting solutions, ensuring seamless access and optimal performance. Contact us today to learn more!