Challenges
Before implementing DataBlend, many client processes relied heavily on spreadsheets, manual imports, and substantial data manipulation.
For one client, BST was required to export data from various operational systems, manipulate large Excel files, and manually import the data into Sage Intacct. The process was time-consuming, prone to human error, and delayed access to financial information.
BST also faced challenges when clients selected systems that either lacked Sage Intacct integrations or offered integrations that did not support the organization's specific dimensions, requirements, or needs.
In some cases, BST spent hours performing repetitive manual processes simply because existing integrations could not accommodate the client's preferred workflow or systems.
Additionally, a nonprofit client required payroll allocations for grant reporting purposes. Achieving this functionality through native Sage Intacct options would have required a higher software tier and additional modules, significantly increasing the organization's costs.
Solution
BST partnered with DataBlend to automate data between client systems and Sage Intacct, creating customized workflows tailored to each client's unique requirements.
For retail and multi-location clients, DataBlend automated the collection and import of daily sales data. Rather than exporting, manipulating, and importing files manually, store managers simply completed their normal daily close process while DataBlend automatically retrieved and processed the data.
For other clients, DataBlend enabled BST to build workflows that accommodated specialized reporting dimensions and business requirements that standard integrations could not support.
"Before DataBlend, we were relying on macro-Excel workbooks, imports, and a lot of manual data manipulation. Now the process is automated, and instead of exporting, manipulating, and importing data, we're simply reviewing it. That has created significant efficiencies for both our team and our clients." — Jennifer Shah, BST, Senior Accounting Manager
Beyond automation, BST gained the confidence to troubleshoot and maintain their own workflows. They can make updates, resolve issues, and manage changes without relying on DataBlend’s support.
"DataBlend has saved us hours every week. Beyond the time savings, it's made our processes more scalable because team members can manage and troubleshoot workflows themselves rather than relying on one person who knows all the steps. That's been a huge benefit for us." — Joanne Hammond, BST, Client Accounting and Projects Manager
Results
By automating recurring accounting processes, BST achieved significant operational improvements for both its team and its clients.
Reduced Manual Work: Processes that previously required exporting data, manipulating spreadsheets, and importing journal entries are now automated. Staff members can focus on higher-value client activities instead of repetitive administrative tasks.
Hours Saved Every Week: Several workflows eliminated processes that previously consumed multiple hours each week. In some cases, tasks that were completed only a few times per month because of their complexity can now be performed much more frequently.
Faster Month-End Close: With daily sales and financial information automatically flowing into Sage Intacct, clients have more up-to-date financial data throughout the month, improving visibility and streamlining month-end close activities.
Improved Data Quality: Automation reduces the risk of spreadsheet errors, manual data entry mistakes, and inconsistencies that commonly occur when managing large Excel workbooks.
Greater Scalability: Because workflows are automated and standardized, BST can train additional team members to manage client processes without requiring them to know complex spreadsheet procedures.
Cost Savings: "DataBlend allowed us to automate payroll allocations for a nonprofit client without requiring them to upgrade to a higher Sage Intacct tier or purchase additional modules. It delivered the functionality they needed while helping them avoid thousands of dollars in additional annual software costs." — Jennifer Shah, BST, Senior Accounting Manager
Results
DataBlend has become an important component by automating data processing, eliminating manual spreadsheet work, and enabling flexible workflows. DataBlend allows BST to spend less time moving and manipulating data and more time helping clients.
The partnership goes beyond technology, with DataBlend hosting lunch-and-learn sessions for BST to share integration best practices, showcase new capabilities, and help the BST team uncover additional opportunities to automate client processes.
Today, BST uses DataBlend across multiple clients and continues expanding its automation efforts.
