Acumatica ERP Ecommerce Integration: Build vs Buy vs Accelerate Explained
3 min read ● Silk Team
Acumatica and eCommerce system integration is not a “nice to have” when you’re planning to grow. The issue is not “to integrate or not to integrate.” Instead, the issue is “how.”
Will you build a custom integration? Will you use a standard connector? Will you accelerate your implementation with a pre-built and scalable integration framework?
Each option comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, flexibility, speed, and scalability going forward. A key to making the right decision up front is to avoid building technical debt.
Let’s look at each option individually.
Option 1: Build Your Own Custom Integration
Building your own custom integration requires utilizing Acumatica’s APIs to connect your Acumatica instance directly to platforms such as Shopify, BigCommerce, Magento, etc.
When Building a Custom Integration Makes Sense
- Pricing logic is very complex
- Multi-entity or multi-warehouse operations
- Subscription or usage-based billing
- Highly customized workflows
- Enterprise level compliance
Benefits
- Maximally flexible
- Total control of the data flowing between applications
- Ability to automate workflow based on your unique requirements
- Differentiates you from competitors
Drawbacks
- High upfront development cost
- Implementation takes longer
- Long term cost associated with maintaining your integration
- Dependent on internal or external developer(s) to maintain the integration
Best suited for: Large enterprise organizations with complex operational requirements and the necessary internal or external development resources to develop a highly customized solution.
Option 2: Use a Standard Connector
Using a standard connector means using either native connectors or third party middleware to connect your Acumatica application with your eCommerce platform.
When Using a Standard Connector Makes Sense
- Standard B2C eCommerce workflows
- Medium sized product catalogs
- Simple inventory management
- Limited customization requirements
Benefits
- Faster deployment
- Lower upfront cost
- Vendor manages updates and provides built in support
Drawbacks
- Limited ability to customize the connector
- Potential limitations with API or performance issues
- Less flexible as you scale
Best for: Small to mid-sized businesses who require reliable integration but do not require extensive development.
Option 3: Use a Pre-Built Integration Framework to Accelerate Your Implementation
The “accelerate” option falls somewhere in the middle of “build” and “buy”. It utilizes pre-designed integration frameworks specifically for Acumatica and eCommerce—but provides the flexibility to customize where required.
As opposed to having to start from scratch, you will be beginning with a pre-tested architecture.
When Acceleration Makes Sense
- Need faster time to market
- Anticipate increased growth and higher transaction volumes
- Want flexibility without the high cost of a full custom solution
- Plan multi-channel expansion
Benefits
- Reduces implementation time
- Provides scalable architecture out of the box
- Reduces long term technical debt
- Provides balanced flexibility
Considerations
- Careful selection of vendor required
- May still incur some upfront costs
Best for: Companies who are focused on growth and want to provide themselves with scalability without the complexities associated with full custom solutions.
Comparison of Build, Buy, and Accelerate Options
Below is a simplified comparison framework:
| Factor | Build | Buy | Accelerate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time to Launch | Slow | Fast | Moderate |
| Initial Up Front Costs | High | Low-Moderate | Moderate |
| Degree of Customization | Very High | Limited | High |
| Scalability | High | Moderate | High |
| Maintenance Cost | Internal Cost | Vendor Cost | Shared/Cost Managed |
Choose an option that best fits your organization based on:
- Projected order volume
- Complexity of operational requirements
- Technical capabilities of your organization
- Project budget and timeline
- Plans for long term growth
Important Considerations for Any Option (Regardless of Which Path You Choose)
Regardless of the path you take to integrate Acumatica ERP with eCommerce, ensure that your integration meets the following critical components:
- Inventory syncs in real-time
- Orders are automatically sent into the ERP
- Financial reconciliations occur
- Integration has error monitoring and alerting
- There is clear ownership of data between both systems
Without meeting the above critical components, even the most advanced integrations will quickly become a bottleneck.
Final Thoughts
Deciding to integrate Acumatica ERP with eCommerce is a strategic decision, not simply a technical one.
- Build if your company’s competitive advantage relies heavily on the customization of your processes.
- Buy if speed and ease of integration are paramount to your organization.
- Accelerate if your company is looking for scalable growth while minimizing the risks associated with integrating Acumatica with eCommerce.
Ultimately, the correct choice strikes a balance between your current needs and your future growth. When done properly, your Acumatica eCommerce integration will become a growth engine—providing automated operation, improved visibility, and confidence in scaling your business.