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60 articles // page 4 of 5

When to Rebuild (Versus Tweak) Your Cin7 Setup
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

When to Rebuild (Versus Tweak) Your Cin7 Setup

In this article, I address the common issue of Cin7 implementations not fully delivering on their promise and guides product-based businesses on whether to tweak their existing setup or undertake a more significant rebuild. I argue that a poor initial setup often leads to significant operational and financial issues, suggesting a controlled rebuild (stopping syncs, running stocktakes, archiving noise, reviewing product lists, documenting processes, and reconnecting systems cleanly) is often the necessary path to achieve a functional and trustworthy Cin7 environment. I provide three key questions to help businesses determine if a tweak is sufficient or if a rebuild is required for clarity, control, and confidence.

Pierre Goldie3 min read

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 5
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 5

In this final part of my Odoo vs. Xero series, I wrap up by comparing compliance, support, and cost. Based on my analysis, I find that Xero stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it a great fit for smaller businesses needing straightforward accounting, though it often relies on third-party apps for more advanced collaboration, multi-step approvals, or integrated project management. On the other hand, I see Odoo offering a more comprehensive, integrated suite with highly detailed user permissions, strong built-in tools like Chatter for real-time collaboration, and robust, customizable workflow and task management through its native modules. While Odoo's ERP structure provides superior scalability for high transaction volumes and extensive customization possibilities, I conclude that this flexibility generally requires a steeper learning curve and potentially more development resources compared to Xero's simpler, off-the-shelf approach.

Pierre Goldie16 min read

Tariffs are a Test You Can't Cheat: What Product Brands Must Get Right Now
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Tariffs are a Test You Can't Cheat: What Product Brands Must Get Right Now

In this article, I argue that current tariffs are not just a cost issue but a stress test revealing the operational weaknesses of product businesses relying on disconnected systems and poor data visibility. I emphasize the need for connected financial and operational data, channel-aware reporting, and robust financial planning (FP&A) to build resilience against market volatility, offering a path for businesses to gain control over their data and decision-making.

Pierre Goldie3 min read

How to Build a Finance Function for a Scaling Product Business
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

How to Build a Finance Function for a Scaling Product Business

In this article, I outline a strategic approach to building a finance function for scaling product businesses, emphasizing the importance of understanding core operations first, then integrating finance processes with a focus on automation, and finally leveraging deep-dive Financial Planning and Analysis (FP&A) with validated data for effective decision-making, drawing inspiration from Mark Cuban's philosophy of system independence.

Jaco Roets2 min read

Role of the Ecomm Accountant
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Role of the Ecomm Accountant

In 2025, the ecommerce landscape is booming, with online sales reaching new heights. However, this growth brings unique financial challenges that can overwhelm business owners. Hiring an ecommerce accountant is not just a smart move—it’s essential for navigating these complexities and ensuring long-term success. This overview explores why ecommerce businesses need specialized financial help, the roles of different professionals, when to seek assistance, and the benefits of partnering with an expert.

Pierre Goldie5 min read

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 4
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 4

In this part of my series comparing Odoo and Xero, I dive into user experience, workflow management, and scalability/customization. Based on my analysis, I find that Xero stands out for its user-friendly interface, making it a great fit for smaller businesses needing straightforward accounting, though it often relies on third-party apps for more advanced collaboration, multi-step approvals, or integrated project management. On the other hand, I see Odoo offering a more comprehensive, integrated suite with highly detailed user permissions, strong built-in tools like Chatter for real-time collaboration, and robust, customizable workflow and task management through its native modules. While Odoo's ERP structure provides superior scalability for high transaction volumes and extensive customization possibilities, I conclude that this flexibility generally requires a steeper learning curve and potentially more development resources compared to Xero's simpler, off-the-shelf approach.

Pierre Goldie14 min read

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 3
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 3

In this part of my Odoo vs. Xero series, I compared their multi-currency, inventory/COGS, and automation/integration features. I found that Xero is better for small to medium-sized businesses that need frequent exchange rate updates, while Odoo is more suitable for larger businesses that require a comprehensive ERP system with detailed reporting. Xero offers a user-friendly approach to basic inventory needs, but Odoo's advanced features are better for complex operations. For automation and integrations, Xero focuses on accounting-specific tasks with a wide range of app integrations, whereas Odoo provides broader ERP automation and more customizable integrations.

Pierre Goldie10 min read

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 2
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business? Part 2

In this second in a five-part series, I compare Odoo and Xero's accounting modules, focusing on Sales & Invoicing, Purchases & Accounts Payable, and Reporting & Analytics. Xero excels in speed and ease for invoicing, payment gateway integration, and user-friendly reporting, making it ideal for smaller businesses. Odoo offers deeper customization, robust automation, multi-level approvals, and extensive reporting capabilities, suited for larger or complex businesses needing ERP integration. Ultimately, Xero prioritizes simplicity and scalability, while Odoo provides depth and flexibility for demanding business requirements.

Pierre Goldie12 min read

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business?
Systems and SoftwareEcommerce

Odoo vs. Xero: Which is the Best Fit for Your Business?

In this first in a five-part series, I delve into a comprehensive comparison of Odoo and Xero's accounting functionalities, concentrating on their General Ledger and Chart of Accounts, along with their Bank Feeds and Reconciliation capabilities. I evaluate the flexibility and customization options each platform offers for their chart of accounts, the simplicity of their setup processes, and their effectiveness in managing multiple entities and consolidated accounts. Furthermore, I scrutinize the dependability of their bank feeds, the efficiency of their transaction matching, and their support for local banks. My findings indicate that Odoo provides superior flexibility and depth for intricate accounting demands, especially for multi-entity management, whereas Xero excels in user-friendliness, swift setup, and efficient bank reconciliation, rendering it perfect for straightforward bookkeeping and small to medium-sized enterprises.

Pierre Goldie14 min read