Choosing the right CRM solution can be a game-changer when it comes to managing customer relationships. With options like Oracle NetSuite and Salesforce on the table, it’s important to find the best fit for your team. In this article, we’ll break down the pros and cons of both, helping you navigate the decision-making process.
NetSuite offers a cloud-based solution that provides a real-time view of the customer lifecycle, from the first interaction to fulfillment and beyond. Meanwhile, Salesforce brings a suite of products and services that are flexible and customizable to meet your business’s specific needs.
Let’s take a closer look at both options to help you choose the one that best fits your business goals.
Key Differences at a Glance
Before we dive into the features, let’s quickly highlight some key differences between NetSuite CRM and Salesforce. These distinctions can help you better understand which CRM might suit your business’s needs.
| Feature | NetSuite CRM | Salesforce |
| Core Focus | Combines ERP and CRM integration for unified operations. | A powerful standalone CRM solution with built-in AI (Einstein) for enhanced capabilities. |
| Best For | Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) needing an integrated ERP-CRM synergy. | Large enterprises seeking a highly scalable CRM solution with global reach. |
| Pricing Model | Subscription-based, bundled with ERP, making it cost-effective for those using multiple modules. | Tiered pricing with options ranging from Essentials to Unlimited, based on user needs and size. |
| Customization | Offers moderate customization focused on aligning with ERP workflows, but less flexibility overall. | Highly customizable with AppExchange, APIs, and low-code tools for more tailored solutions. |
| Scalability | Best suited for mid-market businesses; scalability may be limited as the company grows. | Designed for enterprise-level scalability, handling global teams and complex needs. |
| Industry Specialization | Often chosen by industries like manufacturing, retail, and wholesale requiring integrated ERP. | Widely used in sectors like tech, healthcare, and financial services, with extensive third-party integrations. |
Detailed Comparison: NetSuite CRM vs. Salesforce
Prior to diving deeper into the specific features, it’s important to take a closer look at how these CRMs stack up against each other in terms of their core strengths and ideal use cases in order for you to be able to make an informed decision.
Target Audience
NetSuite CRM
NetSuite CRM is best suited for mid-sized businesses in the US, particularly those in the IT and computer software industries. Its strength lies in its integration with ERP, making it ideal for companies that need a comprehensive, all-in-one solution.
If your business relies on managing both customer relationships and enterprise resources in a unified platform, NetSuite CRM could be a great fit. NetSuite CRM is ideal for businesses that need an integrated ERP-CRM system with lower upfront costs.
Salesforce
In contrast, Salesforce attracts a much broader global customer base, with a significant presence across industries like professional services, tech, and healthcare. As of 2022, 29% of Salesforce’s clients come from law firms, accountants, and advertising agencies, showcasing its versatility and popularity across diverse sectors.
If your business needs a highly customizable CRM that can scale globally, Salesforce offers the flexibility to grow with your needs. However, Salesforce offers a more adaptable, AI-powered CRM that grows with your business as needs evolve.
Core Features
Sales Automation
When it comes to sales automation, Salesforce offers advanced lead scoring, along with Einstein AI predictions for enhanced forecasting.
In contrast, NetSuite offers more basic automation, which is primarily tied to its ERP workflows, catering to businesses looking for a simpler, integrated approach.
Customer Service
In terms of customer service, Salesforce shines with its Service Cloud that supports omnichannel interactions, making it a strong choice for companies aiming to manage diverse customer touchpoints.
On the other hand, NetSuite focuses more on basic case management, which might be sufficient for businesses with less complex service needs.
Marketing
Both NetSuite CRM and Salesforce provide essential marketing tools for creating and executing campaigns, tracking interactions, and analyzing performance. However, NetSuite includes marketing automation as part of its standard offering, while Salesforce requires the Sales Engage add-on.
Salesforce’s powerful platform allows businesses to easily integrate popular marketing automation tools like Mailchimp, HubSpot, and Marketo, adding more flexibility to campaign strategies.
These features position Salesforce as a more comprehensive tool for businesses looking to integrate sales, marketing, and customer service with advanced capabilities and a broader ecosystem.
Customization
Both NetSuite CRM and Salesforce offer strong customization options, allowing businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs and workflows. However, Salesforce has a stronger reputation for its easy adaptability and personalization, giving businesses more flexibility to adjust the platform to fit their goals.
Offering expert Salesforce customization services, designed to adapt the platform to your unique business needs, Rolustech ensure that Salesforce works smoothly for your team
Integrations
In terms of integration, NetSuite CRM seamlessly integrates with the rest of its ERP suite, making it an ideal choice for businesses already using NetSuite for managing data like HR and finance.
It also allows integrations with on-premise or cloud-based applications via the SuiteCloud technology platform. However, it doesn’t natively support many common tools like Skype, Facebook, or Office 365.
On the other hand, Salesforce is known for its flexible integration capabilities. It offers virtual integrations, connecting with a wide range of applications, including e-commerce, accounting, and more.
Through AppExchange, Salesforce users can access a marketplace with thousands of third-party integrations, allowing for greater versatility and adaptability to business needs.
At Rolustech, we specialize in Salesforce integration services, helping businesses unlock the full potential of the platform. Our expert team ensures seamless integration with your existing systems and tailors Salesforce to meet your specific business requirements.
Pricing
NetSuite Pricing
NetSuite has a discreet pricing model. To get an accurate quote, you need to contact a reseller directly. The base license for the ERP suite starts at $999 per month, with an additional $99 per user each month.
Pricing varies depending on the number of optional modules included in your package, and you’ll sign up for an annual contract. The platform’s cost is per user, meaning each employee who requires access will need their own license.
Salesforce Pricing
Salesforce offers tiered pricing that depends on the number of users and the modules you choose, such as sales, customer support, or marketing. It also offers a free trial before committing to an annual contract.
Pricing starts with Essentials at $25 per user/month for small teams. The Professional plan, which includes the core CRM features, is priced at $100 per user/month. For more advanced customization, the Enterprise plan is available at $165 per user/month, while the Unlimited plan, ideal for high-growth businesses, is priced at $330 per user/month.
Scalability
Salesforce scales seamlessly to meet the needs of enterprises with global teams. It provides robust capabilities to manage large datasets and users across different regions.
In contrast, NetSuite is best suited for mid-sized businesses and may lag when handling the demands of large enterprises.
User Experience
While Salesforce offers a steeper learning curve, it is highly customizable to fit diverse business needs. On the other hand, NetSuite provides a simpler interface, making it easier for ERP users, though it is less focused on CRM-specific functionalities.
Support & Ecosystem
Salesforce boasts a large community, comprehensive Trailhead training, and 24/7 support, ensuring users always have access to resources. NetSuite, however, relies more on Oracle’s support system and offers fewer third-party resources compared to Salesforce’s extensive ecosystem.
Suitability for Different Industries
NetSuite is often the choice for industries such as manufacturing and distribution, where its combination of ERP and CRM functionalities offers seamless integration. It’s a valuable tool for retail and e-commerce, managing production, customer interactions, and real-time inventory in one place.
On the other hand, Salesforce shines with its flexibility and customization, making it ideal for sectors looking to leverage cloud-based CRM for deeper customer insights and enhanced engagement.
This makes it especially valuable for nonprofits and educational institutions, where scalable features and robust third-party app integrations can be utilized to meet the unique needs of the organization
NetSuite CRM+ vs. Salesforce: A Quick Pros & Cons Overview
NetSuite CRM+
Pros
NetSuite CRM+ offers businesses streamlined access to customer data throughout their lifecycle, simplifying lead-to-cash processes. It provides a 360-degree overview of your portfolio, enhancing sales performance with improved forecasting, upselling, and commission management tools.
The software is a great fit for SMBs due to its cost-effective integration with ERP, offering unified reporting and servicing global organizations.
Cons
NetSuite CRM+ has some limitations, such as the lack of integration with productivity tools like Skype. Support access fees and challenges in reaching customer service can be frustrating.
Additionally, there’s no personal AI assistant, and its scalability is restricted, with fewer CRM-specific features compared to others on the market.
Salesforce
Pros
Salesforce excels as a strategic advisor with its Service Cloud, which has proven highly successful in managing customer relationships. It offers a robust AppExchange with third-party integrations, providing businesses with a customizable platform to enhance customer engagement.
AI tools, an extensive ecosystem, and enterprise-ready features make it a powerful tool, complemented by Salesforce’s educational network via Trailhead, which is an invaluable resource for users.
Cons
Smaller businesses might struggle to afford Salesforce due to its increasing costs and contractual obligations. Since Salesforce is primarily a CRM tool, data sharing with other systems like ERP solutions can be costly and complex, requiring additional connectors.
Moreover, the implementation and migration process can be lengthy, and the setup is expensive and complex.
Make an Informed Decision
When choosing between Salesforce and NetSuite CRM, it’s crucial to consider factors that align with your business’s specific needs. Ask yourself these five key questions to guide your decision and ensure you select the right CRM solution for your goals.
- Do you need ERP-CRM integration or a standalone CRM?
- What’s your budget for licensing, implementation, and training?
- Does your industry require AI-driven insights (Salesforce) or inventory/supply chain alignment (NetSuite)?
- Will you scale globally in the next 3–5 years?
- Do you have in-house technical resources for customization?
Rolustech’s Expertise
At Rolustech, we specialize in providing expert Salesforce implementations and CRM integrations tailored to your unique business needs. With years of experience, our team ensures an effortless transition and effective integration that enhances your workflow and customer relationship management.
Still unsure? Our CRM experts at Rolustech can audit your workflows and recommend the best solution. Schedule a free consultation today and make an informed choice for your business’s growth.
Final Verdict: NetSuite vs Salesforce
While NetSuite stands out for its ERP-CRM integration and customization, Salesforce offers a more flexible, scalable solution with advanced AI tools and a strong ecosystem. For businesses looking for a solution that can grow with them and offer deep insights, Salesforce is a strong contender.
The best way to determine which platform fits your needs is by taking advantage of the free trials both companies offer.
FAQs
Q1: Can NetSuite CRM work without NetSuite ERP?
A1: No, NetSuite CRM is built to integrate seamlessly with the NetSuite ERP suite. Using them together ensures businesses can manage everything from inventory to customer data in one place.
Q2: Is Salesforce better for small businesses?
A2: Salesforce Essentials is a solid choice for small businesses, offering flexible, cost-effective CRM solutions. However, NetSuite could be more suitable for SMBs that need a complete ERP and CRM solution in one.
Q3: Which has better mobile access?
A3: Salesforce offers a more robust mobile app, providing users with full CRM access on-the-go. Its intuitive interface ensures teams can manage customer relationships from anywhere, anytime.
