Choosing the "best" financial planning software for your SME can depend on specific needs, but based on reviews, market share, and features, here are some top contenders that were notably recognized during that year:
Top Financial Planning Software used by professional accountants:
MoneyGuidePro (Envestnet MoneyGuide)
Market Share: Held about a third of the market share among financial advisors.
Features: Known for its intuitive interface, scenario planning ("what-if" scenarios), and client engagement tools. It's praised for simplifying the process of gathering client data and developing strategies for financial goals.
eMoney Advisor
Market Share: About 28% market share currently for its Pro version.
Features: Offers comprehensive financial planning tools with a strong emphasis on detailed cash flow analysis, real-time data, and client-facing tools like a financial feed for alerts and news. It's versatile, offering different levels of service from basic to advanced planning.
RightCapital
Market Share: Approximately 16% currently, showing growth from previous years.
Features: Focuses on a middle ground between overly complex and too simple, providing tailored financial plans with tools like RightIntel for business intelligence, RightPay for client billing, and Snapshot for personalized planning. It's noted for its appeal to a younger, tech-savvy demographic.
Quicken
Focus: While traditionally known for personal finance, Quicken has robust features for financial planning, including budgeting, investment tracking, and retirement planning.
Features: Offers a comprehensive suite of tools for both personal and business finances, with a strong track record for managing investments alongside day-to-day financials.
Planful
Target Audience: More focused on businesses for FP&A (Financial Planning & Analysis).
Features: Provides cloud-based software for financial planning and analysis, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting. It's known for its scalability and integration capabilities.
Sage Intacct
Features: Known for its cloud-based financial management solutions, offering robust budgeting, analysis, and planning tools. It's highlighted for its integration capabilities and multi-entity management.
Board
Features: An intelligent planning solution with tools for budgeting, analysis, and reporting. It's praised for its ability to handle complex financial models and scenarios.
Key Considerations for Selection:
User Interface: How user-friendly is the software for both advisors and clients?
Integration: Capability to integrate with other financial and CRM systems.
Scalability: Can the software grow with your practice or business?
Features: Does it cover the breadth of financial planning needs from basic to advanced scenarios?
Client Engagement: Tools for client interaction, like portals or dashboards.
Compliance and Security: Ensuring client data is handled securely and compliantly.
Cost: Evaluate the pricing structure against the value provided.
When considering the "best" software, remember that what works for one firm or individual might not be ideal for another due to differing needs, client bases, or business models. The above software solutions are well-regarded, but always check for the latest reviews and updates as software evolves rapidly.