Imagine cutting your data integration time by 80%, freeing you to focus on strategic financial analysis instead of manual data entry. For many CPAs, this seems too good to be true. The constant juggling of multiple systems, endless data entry, and troubleshooting integration tools has become a daily grind. But what if there’s a solution that could make this a reality?
Enter DataBlend, a game-changing ETL (Extract, Transform, Load) tool revolutionizing financial data integration. As Eric Neilssen, Senior Account Executive at DataBlend, explained on a recent episode of the Unofficial Sage Intacct Podcast, “At the heart of what we’re doing is solving a friction point for customers and making life a little easier for the Office of Finance and Accounting.”
The Swiss Army Knife of Financial Data Integration
At its core, DataBlend is an ETL tool designed specifically for financial data. But calling it just an ETL tool is like calling a Swiss Army knife just a blade. DataBlend’s true power lies in its versatility and ability to connect virtually any system that houses financial data—a game-changer for CPAs juggling multiple platforms.
Eric explains their approach: “What expands on that value is our Swiss Army-like way of connecting to systems.” This flexibility is achieved through four main connection methods:
- API Connections: Pre-built standard connections to popular systems like Sage Intacct and Salesforce.
- Database Connector: For on-premise or cloud databases without API access.
- SFTP Connector: Ingests CSV or TXT files from systems that can export data in these formats.
- Custom Script Connection via API: Extends connectivity to any system with an open API.
This multi-faceted approach allows DataBlend to tackle complex integration challenges that typically require extensive custom development. Eric shares a compelling use case involving Stripe, Salesforce, and Sage Intacct:
“We have customers who use us to connect Stripe, Salesforce, and Sage Intacct. When a customer makes a donation or payment through Stripe, we take the revenue and send it to Salesforce. Then, the credit card fees are sent to Sage Intacct for revenue recognition.”
In this scenario, DataBlend doesn’t just move data from point A to point B. It intelligently routes different types of data to the appropriate systems, handling complex transformations along the way. For CPAs, this means no more manual data entry or reconciliation between systems—DataBlend handles it all automatically.
This level of sophistication allows businesses to choose the best systems for their needs without worrying about integration limitations. Eric says, “You shouldn’t have to make that choice based on connectivity. You should make that choice based on what’s best for your business, and let us come in and help make those connections.”
DataBlend’s versatility doesn’t come at the cost of usability. Its low-code approach means CPAs and financial professionals can set up and manage integrations without extensive IT knowledge. This combination of power and ease of use has fueled DataBlend’s rapid growth.
Data Flows: The Power of Sage Partnership
DataBlend’s revolutionary approach reaches new heights through its strategic partnership with Sage. This collaboration has given birth to Data Flows, a powerful solution that brings DataBlend’s capabilities directly into the Sage ecosystem, offering CPAs a streamlined path to data integration.
Eric explains, “Data Flows, in the simplest terms, is DataBlend available on Sage paper.” For CPAs and finance professionals, this means seamless integration between Sage Intacct and other systems, all under one contract and backed by a trusted name in accounting software.
A single Data Flow allows for the connection between Sage Intacct and one other system, enabling the movement of three workflows or objects—such as customers, vendors, or invoices—between the two systems. This translates to significant time savings and reduced risk of errors. For example, customer data entered into a CRM system can automatically flow into Sage Intacct, eliminating double entry and ensuring data consistency.
The benefits extend beyond technical integration. Eric points out, “One of the benefits of coming to the table as a product that has this ISV relationship with Sage Intacct and being on Sage Intacct paper is the customer doesn’t look at you as much as a third party. They look at DataBlend as a Sage-backed integration tool that Sage has confidence is going to improve the value of what the customer is getting out of Sage Intacct.”
This increased confidence and ease of adoption have been game-changers for many finance teams. The Data Flows solution empowers Sage account executives and VARs (Value Added Resellers) to have more effective conversations with their customers about integration, removing much of the friction that integration can bring into evaluating and implementing new software.
Low-Code, Low-Maintenance: A New Paradigm in Integration
Traditional data integration often involves complex coding, expensive solutions, and ongoing maintenance headaches. DataBlend changes this with a low-code, low-maintenance approach tailored for CPAs and finance professionals.
Eric contrasts DataBlend’s approach with traditional methods: “Traditionally, you need someone to build the integration and then maintain it. It’s common for it to break, which is costly because you need to keep hours available for someone to fix it.”
DataBlend’s solution is a user-friendly platform that doesn’t require extensive coding knowledge. CPAs can manage their data integration without heavy reliance on IT resources, freeing up time for strategic analysis.
The benefits extend beyond setup. DataBlend’s subscription includes ongoing maintenance. “As long as you’re paying the subscription, we’re maintaining those connections for you,” Eric says. This means no unexpected downtime due to API changes or system updates.
This approach saves time and reduces frustration for CPAs. Instead of troubleshooting integration issues, finance professionals can focus on analyzing trends, identifying opportunities, and providing strategic advice.
DataBlend continually evolves based on user feedback and common use cases. Eric explains, “We release wizards and templates for common workflows, creating streamlined implementation methods.”
By embracing DataBlend’s approach, CPAs can shift from number-crunchers to strategic advisors, focusing on high-value activities that drive business growth and client satisfaction.
Embracing the Future of Financial Data Integration
DataBlend is revolutionizing financial data integration through its versatile ETL tool, strategic partnership with Sage, and innovative low-code approach. By automating and simplifying data integration, DataBlend frees CPAs to focus on analyzing data, identifying trends, and providing strategic insights.
For CPAs aiming to stay competitive, embracing tools like DataBlend is crucial. These advanced integration capabilities can position you at the forefront of the data-driven business revolution.
Ready to Transform Your Practice?
Don’t miss the opportunity to hear directly from the innovators behind DataBlend. Tune in to the full conversation with Eric Neilssen on the Unofficial Sage Intacct Podcast. You’ll gain invaluable insights into DataBlend’s groundbreaking approach, hear real-world success stories, and glimpse the future of financial data management.