New technology and AI tools are reshaping how companies operate in 2026. Now is the perfect time for small to mid-sized businesses to re-evaluate new accounting software and payroll systems that feature the latest tech and AI tools that deliver insights and control your business needs.
At Badger CPA, our clients have seen firsthand how transformative Sage Intacct is in streamlining financial operations. The recent acquisition of Criterion is taking the platform further by connecting payroll, HR, and accounting. For internal financial teams, this means receiving more accurate, real-time insights into your organization’s performance.
In a recent press release, Jonathan Cowan, EVP, Human Capital Management, Platform and Services at Sage, expressed: “At Sage, we’re not just embedding AI into software, we’re rethinking how work gets done. Criterion fits perfectly into that vision. With embedded intelligence and an intuitive experience layer, we can deliver HR and payroll that’s no longer just compliant or automated, but truly trusted and proactive.”
Payroll Accounting & Financial Reporting Under One Umbrella
There’s much to look forward to now that Sage is further bridging a long-standing gap between finance and HR, including the following:
1. Unified Payroll and Accounting Data
What once required multiple tools and manual reconciliations can now be done in a single system. The addition of Criterion means payroll data now flows directly to where you need it. This allows automatic posting of wages, taxes, and benefits. The result? Fewer manual entries and faster closes, something Badger’s outsourced accountants know every internal team will appreciate.
2. Automation and Compliance Built-In
The acquisition of Criterion expands Sage’s existing compliance automation tools. Sage currently provides an end-to-end benefits automation solution that allows companies to manage complex benefit plans and deductions within their payroll systems. The goal? To reduce the complexity of open enrollments, limit manual entry, gain insights into the performance of plans, calculate employee and employer contributions, and more. All while keeping sensitive data safe — critical for hybrid or multi-state teams. At Badger CPA, we can help you learn and manage the new software so you gain the advantage of continuous oversight without the administrative burden.
3. Smarter Decision-Making with Real-Time Data
Why wait for month-end reports to make company-wide decisions when you can have access to real-time data at any time of the year? You’ll have a clearer picture of labor costs and profitability. With AI-powered tools like Sage Copilot, businesses can analyze reports, track staffing trends, and make informed budget decisions.
Trusted Sage Intacct Partners
The Sage-Criterion partnership is an evolution in cloud-based financial management. As Sage Intacct Partners, we’re here to help businesses strategically navigate these transitions. Ready to gain confidence and clarity on your Sage Intacct journey? Contact us to get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should growing businesses consider upgrading to Sage Intacct instead of QuickBooks?
As companies scale, some platforms may not align with multi-entity management, real-time reporting, and consolidation speed. Sage was designed for organizations that need deeper visibility, automation, and scalability. As a Sage Intacct Partner, we help clients implement and customize the system to fit their unique reporting and compliance needs.
2. How does Badger CPA support Sage implementation and training?
Choosing Sage accounting software is just the first step. Our accounting team guides you through every phase of the process. We combine technical setup with financial strategy, helping your business get real value from the robust platform.
3. What are the benefits of working with a Sage Intacct Partner versus going directly through Sage?
Working directly with a software provider often means limited customization or post-launch support. Whereas, at Badger, we’re more hands-on to help you interpret real-time financial data, manage multi-entity reporting, and maintain compliance as you grow. We don’t just install software–we help you build a sustainable, insight-driven financial system that scales with your business.