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Choosing the Right Accounting Software for Your Association: Why It’s About More Than Just Features

Selena Elledge

Jul 7 2025

3 min read

Over the last several weeks, we’ve shared key considerations for associations evaluating new accounting software—from reporting and budgeting to fund allocation and operational visibility. And while features matter, success depends just as much on choosing the right partner for your association—one who understands the unique structure, funding model, and technology ecosystem of associations.

Whether you’re tracking dues, managing events and certifications, or allocating shared costs across programs, your financial system needs to do more than record transactions. It should help you simplify operations, gain visibility, and make smarter decisions—faster.

Beyond the Basics: What Associations Should Look for in an Accounting Platform

Associations today are facing tight budgets, limited staff capacity, and rising demands for transparency. That’s why it’s critical to choose a solution that helps you do more with less.

Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central for Associations stands out for several key reasons:

Deep integration with the Microsoft ecosystem – Seamlessly connects with Microsoft 365 (Outlook, Excel, Teams) and tools like Power BI and Power Automate to eliminate data silos and manual processes.
AI built in – With Microsoft Copilot, your team can draft reports, analyze financials, and automate tasks—directly within the application.
Cloud-based flexibility – Access your system securely from anywhere and empower staff and board members with real-time insights.
Top-tier security and compliance – Backed by Microsoft’s industry-leading infrastructure, so you can be confident your data is protected.

Whether you’re happy with your existing Association Management System (AMS) or exploring new options, Business Central can integrate with your AMS—or provide flexible tools to help fill the gap if you’re still evaluating.

Why the Right Partner Matters

Software is only part of the equation. At Sikich, we’ve worked with associations of all sizes to streamline finance operations, implement modern reporting, and introduce automation and AI. Our HEADSTART for Associations approach accelerates deployment with pre-built best practices tailored to association needs—so you get value faster.

As a top Microsoft Solutions Partner with deep nonprofit and association expertise, we don’t just know the technology—we understand the mission behind it. We’ll meet you where you are, whether you’re moving from a legacy solution like Dynamics GP or starting fresh in the cloud.

We care about your success, and we’ll help you plan for the long-term—not just go live.

Ready to explore what’s possible with Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central for Associations?

Let’s talk about how we can help your organization modernize your financial systems—with a partner who understands your world.

This publication contains general information only and Sikich is not, by means of this publication, rendering accounting, business, financial, investment, legal, tax, or any other professional advice or services. This publication is not a substitute for such professional advice or services, nor should you use it as a basis for any decision, action or omission that may affect you or your business. Before making any decision, taking any action or omitting an action that may affect you or your business, you should consult a qualified professional advisor. In addition, this publication may contain certain content generated by an artificial intelligence (AI) language model. You acknowledge that Sikich shall not be responsible for any loss sustained by you or any person who relies on this publication.

About the Author

Selena Elledge

Selena is Senior Director of Nonprofit Services in Sikich's Technology practice specializing with accounting software for nonprofits. Selena assists clients in designing solutions and strategic planning during their transformation process. She values collaboration with clients to understand current processes and requirements, as well as to explore ideas for future functionality and efficiency enhancements, ensuring alignment with the appropriate solutions.