{"id":28239,"date":"2025-02-20T06:11:38","date_gmt":"2025-02-20T11:11:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/?p=28239"},"modified":"2025-03-31T04:21:12","modified_gmt":"2025-03-31T08:21:12","slug":"benefits-of-using-a-purchase-order-system","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/benefits-of-using-a-purchase-order-system\/","title":{"rendered":"12 powerful benefits of a purchase order system"},"content":{"rendered":"<header class=\"entry-header has-dark-background-color entry-header--has-illustration entry-header--has-illustration--generic\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__row row align-center\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-lg-7 col-xlg-6 entry-header__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"component component-single-header\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-header__misc text--subtitle text--uppercase text--small\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/category\/trends-insights\/\" class=\"entry-header__link\">Trends &amp; Insights<\/a>\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"entry-title-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h1 class=\"entry-title\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t12 powerful benefits of a purchase order system\t\t\t\t\t<\/h1>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"entry-header__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t\t<div class=\"single-post-details container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t<span class=\"posted-on \">Published <time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2025-02-20T06:11:38-05:00\">February 20, 2025<\/time><\/span><span class=\"reading-time\"> min read<\/span>\n\t\t<button\n\t\t\ttype=\"button\"\n\t\t\tclass=\"social-share-button button button--icon button--secondary js-social-share-button\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-title=\"12 powerful benefits of a purchase order system\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-url=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/benefits-of-using-a-purchase-order-system\/\"\n\t\t\tdata-share-text=\"Please read this interesting article\"\n\t\t>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__share-label\">Share<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-label\" hidden>Copy Link<\/span>\n\t\t\t<span class=\"social-share-button__copy-tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\" hidden>Copied<\/span>\n\t\t<\/button>\n\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n\t<\/header>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-post-author has-dark-background-color alignfull\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"co-authors\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\n\t\t<div class=\"entry-author-wrapper\">\n\t\t\t<a class=\"entry-author\" href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/author\/yassirmalik\/\">\n\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2024\/03\/Yassir-Malik.jpg\" class=\"entry-author__image\" alt=\"yassir-malik-profile-picture\" \/>\t\t\t\t<span class=\"entry-author__name\">Yassir Malik<\/span>\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your business still relies on manual spreadsheets, email chains, or paper-based processes to manage purchases, you&#8217;re not alone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many businesses struggle with inconsistent order tracking, approval bottlenecks, and financial blind spots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But as operations scale, so does the complexity of procurement\u2014and without the right system in place, inefficiencies pile up fast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s where a purchase order system comes in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re an operations manager, finance leader, or procurement professional, you already know that getting buy-in from stakeholders for new technology requires a clear business case.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">You need to demonstrate not just how a PO system works, but why it\u2019s essential\u2014from improving financial accuracy to strengthening supplier relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In this guide, we\u2019ll walk you through 12 powerful benefits of using a purchase order system, helping you build a compelling case for adoption. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By the end, you&#8217;ll have the insights you need to show your team why modernizing procurement isn\u2019t just a convenience\u2014it\u2019s a necessity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-here-s-what-we-ll-cover\">Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;ll cover<\/h3>\n\n\n<?xml encoding=\"utf-8\" ?><div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><ul><li><a href=\"#h-here-s-what-we-ll-cover\" data-level=\"3\">Here&#8217;s what we&#8217;ll cover<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-what-is-a-purchase-order-system\" data-level=\"2\">What is a purchase order system?<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-12-benefits-of-using-a-purchase-order-system\" data-level=\"2\">12 benefits of using a purchase order system<\/a><ul><li><a href=\"#h-1-nbsp-improve-accuracy-and-eliminate-order-mistakes\" data-level=\"3\">1. &nbsp;Improve accuracy and eliminate order mistakes<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-2-ensure-legal-protection-and-prevent-disputes\" data-level=\"3\">2. Ensure legal protection and prevent disputes<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-3-manage-projects-and-purchases-with-greater-control\" data-level=\"3\">3. Manage projects and purchases with greater control<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-4-save-your-employees-time\" data-level=\"3\">4. Save your employees time<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-5-improve-supplier-relationships-and-discover-your-super-suppliers\" data-level=\"3\">5. Improve supplier relationships and discover your super suppliers<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-6-allow-you-to-do-business-with-government-and-large-organizations\" data-level=\"3\">6. Allow you to do business with government and large organizations<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-7-streamline-inventory-and-stock-control\" data-level=\"3\">7. Streamline inventory and stock control<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-8-enhance-compliance-and-audit-readiness\" data-level=\"3\">8. Enhance compliance and audit readiness<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-9-make-data-driven-decisions-with-real-time-insights\" data-level=\"3\">9. Make data-driven decisions with real-time insights<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-10-seamless-integration-with-accounting-software\" data-level=\"3\">10. Seamless integration with accounting software<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-11-scalability-for-growing-businesses\" data-level=\"3\">11. Scalability for growing businesses<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-12-user-friendly-and-intuitive-interface\" data-level=\"3\">12. User-friendly and intuitive interface<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-making-the-case-for-a-po-system\" data-level=\"2\">Final thoughts: Making the case for a PO system<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-what-is-a-purchase-order-system\">What is a purchase order system?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Purchase Order (PO) system<\/strong><\/a> is software designed to automate and manage the purchase order process from start to finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It replaces manual, paper-based workflows with a centralized, digital platform that enables businesses to create, send, track, and process purchase orders more efficiently.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For example, great purchase order software should have:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Automated PO creation and processing:<\/strong> generates purchase orders automatically, reducing manual data entry and standardizing order formats.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Customizable templates:<\/strong> allows businesses to define specific accounting rules, workflow settings, and order structures based on their unique requirements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Inventory tracking:<\/strong> monitors stock levels, tracks incoming orders, and updates inventory in real-time to maintain accurate records.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Multi-currency support:<\/strong> handles international purchases by automatically converting and processing orders in multiple currencies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Approval workflows:<\/strong> streamlines the approval process by routing purchase requests to designated approvers before orders are finalized.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Supplier management:<\/strong> stores and organizes supplier details, including pricing agreements, order history, and contact information.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Invoice matching:<\/strong> compares supplier invoices against original purchase orders and received goods to ensure consistency and prevent discrepancies.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Payment tracking:<\/strong> records payments made against purchase orders and provides visibility into outstanding balances.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Reporting and analytics:<\/strong> generates detailed reports on purchasing trends, supplier performance, and financial commitments.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-12-benefits-of-using-a-purchase-order-system\">12 benefits of using a purchase order system<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As you can see, implementing a purchase order system isn\u2019t just about processing orders\u2014a good system should improve accuracy, streamline operations, and give you better financial control.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">From reducing errors to strengthening supplier relationships, purchase order software benefits extend far beyond simple transaction tracking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the major advantages of a structured PO system and how it can transform your business:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-1-nbsp-improve-accuracy-and-eliminate-order-mistakes\">1. &nbsp;Improve accuracy and eliminate order mistakes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A purchase order system helps businesses get orders right the first time by reducing human error.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Instead of relying on manual processes or verbal agreements, a PO system automates order details\u2014ensuring that item descriptions, quantities, prices, and delivery instructions are always accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By centralizing purchase data, businesses can avoid duplicate orders, missing items, or incorrect pricing. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This level of accuracy leads to smoother operations, fewer delays, and better supplier relationships.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-2-ensure-legal-protection-and-prevent-disputes\">2. Ensure legal protection and prevent disputes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Purchase order software<\/strong><\/a> provides a clear, documented trail for every transaction, reducing the risk of disputes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Since a PO is a legal offer to buy, a structured system ensures that all purchase approvals are tracked and stored securely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If a supplier disputes an order, businesses can quickly reference the original PO to confirm agreed-upon terms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This legal clarity strengthens supplier accountability, prevents unauthorized purchases, and makes contract enforcement easier.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-3-manage-projects-and-purchases-with-greater-control\">3. Manage projects and purchases with greater control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO system allows businesses to outline costs upfront before a project begins, ensuring accurate budgeting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Orders can be linked to specific projects, automatically allocating costs and stock at each stage of the purchase order lifecycle.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For businesses working on multiple projects simultaneously, a structured PO system ensures that purchases are properly tracked, preventing overspending and improving project efficiency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-4-save-your-employees-time\">4. Save your employees time<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Without a PO system, employees spend valuable time manually verifying invoices, chasing approvals, and checking orders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By automating these processes, a PO system reduces administrative burdens, eliminates approval bottlenecks, and prevents delays in processing payments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Additionally, employees no longer need to manually check if an invoice is legitimate\u2014the PO system matches invoices automatically, ensuring seamless validation and reducing time-consuming disputes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-5-improve-supplier-relationships-and-discover-your-super-suppliers\">5. Improve supplier relationships and discover your super suppliers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A purchase order system helps businesses identify their most reliable and cost-effective suppliers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By tracking purchase history, businesses can analyze:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Who they order from most frequently<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>How prices have changed over time<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Whether they should be receiving preferential discounts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This insight not only helps businesses negotiate better terms but also strengthens supplier partnerships by ensuring orders are consistent, timely, and accurate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-6-allow-you-to-do-business-with-government-and-large-organizations\">6. Allow you to do business with government and large organizations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many government agencies, local authorities, and large corporations require a valid purchase order before they process an invoice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your business cannot generate POs, you may miss out on valuable contracts and opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A structured PO system also signals financial responsibility and cash flow management, increasing confidence among partners and stakeholders.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-7-streamline-inventory-and-stock-control\">7. Streamline inventory and stock control<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An effective purchase order system gives businesses visibility over their financial commitments on inventory. It provides clarity on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Current stock levels<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stock on hold<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reorder points<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Free stock availability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With this level of insight, businesses can prevent stock shortages, optimize <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-procurement-and-how-can-it-impact-profits\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>procurement<\/strong><\/a>, and maintain better profit margins.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-8-enhance-compliance-and-audit-readiness\">8. Enhance compliance and audit readiness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With clear documentation of every purchase, businesses can demonstrate compliance with internal policies and regulatory requirements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO system simplifies audits by providing a transparent record of transactions, reducing the risk of fraud, mismanagement, and financial discrepancies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By ensuring that all purchases go through an approval workflow, a PO system also helps businesses prevent unauthorized spending and enforce budget controls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-9-make-data-driven-decisions-with-real-time-insights\">9. Make data-driven decisions with real-time insights<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A PO doesn\u2019t just process orders\u2014it also helps businesses analyze spending patterns and supplier performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With detailed data at their fingertips, businesses can:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Identify cost-saving opportunities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Monitor budget allocations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Forecast future purchasing needs<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These insights empower finance teams to track spending trends, identify cost-saving opportunities, and align procurement with broader business goals, ensuring smarter financial decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-10-seamless-integration-with-accounting-software\">10. Seamless integration with accounting software<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unlike standalone PO systems, purchase order software that syncs directly with accounting software provides real-time financial tracking. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This integration helps your business:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Automatically update financial records when a purchase is made<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ensure accurate cash flow forecasting and expense tracking<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Generate real-time financial reports without manual data entry<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By bridging the gap between purchasing and accounting, the integrated PO system enhances financial accuracy and simplifies expense management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-11-scalability-for-growing-businesses\">11. Scalability for growing businesses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Whether you&#8217;re a small business or a large enterprise, a PO system should grow with you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Purchase order systems adapt to increasing transaction volumes, additional locations, and evolving business needs\u2014ensuring efficiency at every stage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For businesses expanding their supplier networks or increasing purchase volumes, a scalable PO system prevents bottlenecks and keeps purchasing processes running smoothly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-12-user-friendly-and-intuitive-interface\">12. User-friendly and intuitive interface<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many purchase order systems are complex and require extensive training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Choose a PO solution that\u2019s designed for ease of use, allowing teams to quickly adopt and integrate it into their workflows with minimal disruption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With an intuitive interface and straightforward navigation, businesses can streamline procurement without the need for specialized training, making adoption easier and reducing operational friction.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-making-the-case-for-a-po-system\">Final thoughts: Making the case for a PO system<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">When presenting the value of a purchase order system to stakeholders, the key is to align it with the business\u2019s top priorities\u2014cost control, operational efficiency, compliance, and scalability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your team needs to reduce errors, streamline approvals, improve supplier negotiations, or gain real-time financial insights, a Sage PO system is a proven solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It doesn\u2019t just automate paperwork\u2014it creates a structured, reliable purchasing process that supports smarter decision-making.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By implementing a Sage purchase order system, businesses can reduce financial risk, improve accountability, and set the stage for scalable growth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now is the time to make the case for change\u2014because every unnecessary delay, incorrect order, or missed opportunity costs your business more than just time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ready to take control of your purchasing process?<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/accounting-software\/purchase-orders\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>modern PO system<\/strong><\/a> can help you get there.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"single-cta\">\n\t<div class=\"single-cta__positioner on-scroll-highlight__target\">\n\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__wrapper has-dark-background-color\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"single-cta__title h3\">Subscribe to our Sage Advice Newsletter<\/h2>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"single-cta__description\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<p>Get our latest business advice delivered directly to your inbox.<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\t\thref=\"#gate-ab515c6e-7e90-4c2f-a67e-113872516e8b\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"single-cta__button button button--primary\"\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t>Subscribe<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1440\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg\" class=\"single-cta__image\" alt=\"Working from home with tea in hand\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1073797282-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 33vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<section class=\"more-topics alignfull has-grey-light-background-color wp-block-sage-post-topics\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-4\">\n\t\t\t\t<h3 class=\"more-topics__title h2\">Browse more topics from this article<\/h3>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12 col-lg-8\">\n\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"post-tags__list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/boss-your-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBoss your business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/business-strategy\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tBusiness strategy\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/growing-a-business\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tGrowing a business\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/inventory-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tInventory management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/supply-chain-management\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tSupply chain management\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class=\"post-tags__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/hub\/workplace-of-the-future\/\" class=\"post-tags__link button button--secondary\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\tThe future of work\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n<div class=\"alignfull wp-block-sage-related-posts\">\n\t<section class=\"related-posts card-grid has-dark-background-color\">\n\t<div class=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--featured h1\">Explore more wisdom<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-0 post-31399 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-accountants category-money-matters tag-accountants tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-continuity tag-cash-flow business_type-small-business card-post--is-clickable\"\n>\n\t<div class=\"card-post__media-wrapper\">\n\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1215\" height=\"810\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-677893494-1215x810.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"High performance is key for businesses\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-677893494-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-677893494-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-677893494-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\t<\/div>\n\n\t<div class=\"card-post__content\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__label\">Recommended<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-16T07:48:37-04:00\">September 16, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">8 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h3\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__title-link\"\n\t\t\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-an-nsf-check\/\"\n\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\tNSF check meaning: What is an NSF check?\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<p class=\"card-post__description\">\n\t\t\t\tAn NSF check can leave an expected payment unresolved. Learn what an NSF check means for your business, when fees may apply, and how to handle returned checks during bank reconciliation.\t\t\t<\/p>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"row related-posts__non-featured\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-12\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<h2 class=\"related-posts__heading related-posts__heading--more h4\">More on this Topic<\/h2>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-1 post-29498 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations category-trends-insights tag-accounting-101 tag-business-intelligence tag-inventory-management tag-productivity tag-staying-competitive tag-supply-chain-management business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business industry-manufacturing industry-nonprofit\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/fifo-vs-lifo\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1441453430-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1441453430-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1441453430-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1441453430-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-16T07:20:48-04:00\">September 16, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">10 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tFIFO vs. LIFO: Differences, formulas, and examples\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-2 post-30337 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-accountants category-money-matters tag-accountants tag-accounting-101 tag-boss-your-business tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-cash-flow tag-growing-a-business tag-small-business tag-starting-a-business tag-tax business_type-small-business business_type-accountants\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-petty-cash\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1022379466-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1022379466-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1022379466-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2022\/04\/GettyImages-1022379466-1440x810.jpg 1440w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-02T07:25:41-04:00\">September 2, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">14 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is petty cash?\u00a0A complete guide\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-3 post-30499 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-money-matters category-strategy-legal-operations tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-cash-flow tag-cloud-financial-management business_type-small-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/what-is-cash-flow-forecasting\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1415809513-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-09-01T11:17:51-04:00\">September 1, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">14 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tWhat is cash flow forecasting?\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"col col-6 col-lg-3 card-grid__item\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<article\n\t\tclass=\"card-post related-post related-post-4 post-28805 post type-post status-publish format-standard has-post-thumbnail hentry category-strategy-legal-operations tag-accounting-101 tag-business-intelligence tag-business-strategy tag-cash-flow business_type-small-business business_type-growing-business\"\n>\n\t\t\t<a\n\t\t\tclass=\"card-post__link\"\n\t\t\thref=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/general-ledger-vs-general-journal\/\"\n\t\t\t\t\t>\n\t\t\t<figure class=\"card-post__media\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img decoding=\"async\" width=\"684\" height=\"384\" src=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1464788033-684x384.jpg\" class=\"card-post__image\" alt=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1464788033-684x384.jpg 684w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1464788033-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1464788033-1215x810.jpg 1215w\" sizes=\"auto, (min-width: 48em) 250px, (min-width: 30em) 100vw, 100vw\" \/>\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/figure>\n\n\t\t\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"card-post__meta\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"posted-on \"><time class=\"entry-date published\" datetime=\"2026-08-28T10:52:25-04:00\">August 28, 2026<\/time><\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span class=\"card-post__meta-text\"><span class=\"reading-time\">7 min read<\/span><\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t<p class=\"card-post__title h5\">\n\t\t\tGeneral journal vs general ledger: What\u2019s the difference?\u00a0\t\t<\/p>\n\n\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\n\t\n\t\t\n\t\n\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the benefits of a purchase order system, from reducing errors to streamlining approvals and improving efficiency, cost control, and compliance.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1774,"featured_media":19440,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-noindex":"","_yoast_wpseo_meta-robots-nofollow":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_page_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_schema_article_type":"","_sage_video":false,"_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"49","sage_membership_post_content_type":"article","sage_membership_post_featured_video_id":"","sage_membership_post_video_type":"trailer","sage_membership_post_featured_video_duration":"","post_featured_image_hide":false,"sage_hide_published_date":false,"sage_hide_read_time":false,"sage_hide_share_buttons":false,"_pwl_sage_podcast_buzzsprout_src":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[48,49],"tags":[195,170,153,19,36,250],"business_type":[40,41],"lilypad":[],"context":[],"industry":[],"persona":[98,96,97,95],"imagine_tag":[468,233,462,237],"coauthors":[509],"class_list":["post-28239","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-technology-innovation","category-trends-insights","tag-boss-your-business","tag-business-strategy","tag-growing-a-business","tag-inventory-management","tag-supply-chain-management","tag-workplace-of-the-future","business_type-small-business","business_type-growing-business"],"sage_meta":{"region":"en-us","author_name":"Yassir Malik","featured_image":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/2\/2023\/07\/shutterstock_2045693432_c2222.jpg","imagine_tags":{"468":"Grow your business","233":"Medium Businesses","462":"Payments","237":"Supply Chain Management"}},"distributor_meta":false,"distributor_terms":false,"distributor_media":false,"distributor_original_site_name":"Sage Advice US","distributor_original_site_url":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog","push-errors":false,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28239","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/users\/1774"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=28239"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/posts\/28239\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media\/19440"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=28239"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"business_type","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/business_type?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"lilypad","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/lilypad?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"context","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/context?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"industry","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/industry?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"persona","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/persona?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"imagine_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/imagine_tag?post=28239"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.sage.com\/en-us\/blog\/api\/wp\/v2\/coauthors?post=28239"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}