Enjoying the Fortis experience? Leave a review on Trustpilot!

Category: Featured

Intelligent Flow: How Agentic AI Will Transform the Future of Payments

Posted on by Chris Haldane

Why Intelligent, Connected Systems Will Redefine How Businesses Move Money

Businesses lose time and revenue every day to one simple truth: payments don’t think.

Automation can move money faster, but it can’t see around corners. Agentic AI can. It doesn’t just follow instructions—it learns from context, recognizes patterns, and recommends smarter actions in real time.

Consider this: A key customer’s payment is delayed by 48 hours. Automation sends a reminder. Agentic AI recognizes the customer’s payment history, notes their recent order increase, cross-references industry trends, and proactively suggests extending terms or reaching out with a strategic check-in.

That’s not just automation. That’s intelligence in motion—and it’s redefining how businesses move money.

From Automation to Intelligence

Automation changed payments for the better. It removed manual steps, reduced errors, and improved consistency. But automation can only do what it’s told. It follows instructions instead of understanding them.

Agentic AI goes further. It understands context, learns from patterns, and acts autonomously in real time. Instead of waiting for problems to appear, it anticipates them, and acts.

Imagine a system that identifies when liquidity is tightening and adjusts disbursements automatically, or reconciles an invoice based on patterns it’s learned from past behavior.   This is the shift from efficiency to intelligence—where payments stop being a process to manage and start becoming a strategic advantage.

Why It Matters: Turning Data into Strategy

Every transaction creates data—but most businesses can’t access or apply it fast enough to drive decisions. Agentic AI changes that, turning payment activity into real-time business intelligence.

AI-driven systems can detect trends in cash flow, identify anomalies, and recommend next steps before problems arise.  They don’t just report what happened—they show what’s coming next, helping finance leaders move from reaction to readiness.

For example: Instead of simply noting a slowdown in payments, an intelligent system might forecast, “You’ll need an additional $2M in working capital by Q2 based on current trends.” It could also alert your team that a key customer’s order volume is dropping and suggest a proactive outreach before revenue impact hits.

The result is faster decisions, fewer surprises, and stronger financial control—because when payments become predictive, strategy follows.

The Technology: APIs as the Arteries of Intelligent Commerce

The modern economy runs on APIs. They connect systems, partners, and platforms, allowing payments to flow securely across environments. As AI becomes more integrated into operations, those APIs are evolving from static connectors into intelligent channels that carry context, not just data.

Emerging technologies like the Model Context Protocol (MCP) are already making this possible. They allow AI agents to securely interact with software environments, verify data, and execute actions automatically, all while maintaining full transparency and auditability.

At Fortis, we’ve seen how embedding payments within core systems like NetSuite, Acumatica, Sage, and other leading ERPs can transform the experience for businesses. When payments are part of the workflow, they no longer feel separate from operations—they become an extension of the business itself.

Agentic AI will take this even further, enabling systems that dynamically route transactions, forecast liquidity, and reconcile exceptions without human intervention. When payments flow intelligently, friction disappears and growth accelerates.

The Foundation: Trust and Data Integrity

 As innovation accelerates, one question remains constant: Can I trust it?

Data security and integrity are non-negotiable in payments. According to Deloitte’s Global Future of Cyber Survey 2023, 77% of executives cite data protection as their top concern when adopting new technologies.

Trust must evolve alongside intelligence. Agentic systems can only make good decisions when they’re built on verified, reliable data—and that’s where the next major shift is already happening.

Visa’s CEDP: A New Standard for Data Integrity

 On October 17, 2025, Visa’s Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP) began requiring businesses that process commercial card transactions to submit accurate, complete, and validated data—including SKU-level detail, tax, freight, and PO information—to qualify for the best interchange rates.

Visa’s move rewards accuracy and transparency. Clean, verified data now directly improves financial outcomes.

That’s a powerful sign of what’s next. Agentic systems depend on the same principles—complete, contextual data that enables confident, compliant action.

At Fortis, we see this as a blueprint for readiness. Businesses that invest in strong data foundations today will lead in tomorrow’s era of intelligent, autonomous payments.

How to Prepare for the Intelligent Payment Future

Intelligent payment flow won’t happen overnight, but forward-thinking leaders can start laying the groundwork today.

  • Strengthen your data foundation.
    Ensure your systems capture complete and accurate transaction details. AI is only as good as the information it learns from.
  • Evolve your integrations.
    Move from one-way APIs to real-time, event-driven architectures that enable contextual updates and intelligent decision-making.
  • Automation should never feel like a black box. Every action must remain transparent, auditable, and explainable.
  • Adopt secure access models.
    Implement least-privilege access and modern authentication frameworks to protect sensitive data as you scale.
  • Choose future-ready partners.
    Work with providers who view innovation, integration, and security as interconnected—not competing priorities.

Each of these steps helps create a more intelligent, frictionless flow of funds and information—the foundation of every great business relationship.

People at the Center of the Flow

 It’s easy to view AI as replacing people, but in reality, it’s empowering them.

When routine reconciliation or settlement tasks happen automatically, teams gain time for strategy, insight, and customer experience.

At Fortis, we see intelligent flow as a partnership between people and technology—one that gives businesses back their time, confidence, and creative edge.

The Bottom Line

 Agentic AI represents the next phase in the evolution of payments—one where transactions don’t just happen; they think.

The businesses preparing today—investing in clean data, modern APIs, and trusted integrations—will lead tomorrow. Because the future of payments isn’t about adding more tools. It’s about creating flow without friction.

Where Fortis Fits In

Fortis helps businesses and software partners create connected, secure payment experiences that build trust and accelerate growth. We may not offer an AI solution today, but we’re building the intelligent infrastructure that will make Agentic AI possible: adaptable, fast, and deeply integrated into the systems businesses rely on every day.

  • For ERP users: Fortis integrates seamlessly with leading ERP systems—including NetSuite, Sage, and Acumatica—reducing reconciliation time and creating the clean structured data that fuels AI-driven insights across finance, operations, and customer systems.
  • For software platforms: Our embedded payment technology helps differentiate your offering—delivering a smoother, more intelligent payment experience your customers will trust and unlocks future AI capabilities
  • For finance leaders: Real-time insights and unified data access help you move from reactive to strategic decision-making, laying the groundwork for future-ready automation and predictive intelligence.

Let’s start the conversation about what frictionless payment flow could mean for your business.

Accelerate Reporting—Turn AR Data into a Growth Engine

Posted on by Chris Haldane

Read Time: 4 minutes 

This is the final post in our Accelerate AR series—a four-part guide to transforming your invoice-to-cash process using embedded payments inside your ERP.

In this post, we’re exploring how real-time AR reporting turns your data into a strategic asset—and helps you drive smarter decisions across the business.

Even the most sophisticated companies often struggle to access timely, reliable data across the invoice-to-cash cycle. Key metrics like Days Sales Outstanding (DSO), overdue balances, and customer payment behavior are hidden in spreadsheets, locked in siloed systems, or calculated manually after month-end.

The result? Incomplete visibility. Delayed decision-making. And a reactive AR strategy that slows growth.

The AR Reporting Gap

Reporting is the final stage of AR—but it’s often where the biggest breakdowns happen. Many finance teams rely on manual processes to pull data, validate inputs, and build reports. Even when ERPs are in place, those reports are often outdated by the time they’re reviewed.

This leads to:

  • Slow decision cycles
  • Disjointed insights across teams
  • Inaccurate forecasting
  • Missed opportunities to improve collections

Without a real-time view of what’s paid, pending, or overdue, your team is flying blind.

Why Real-Time AR Reporting Matters

AR isn’t just about what’s come in—it’s about what hasn’t. And knowing that in real time gives you the power to act quickly.

When your reporting is up to date, you can:

  • Identify at-risk accounts before they become write-offs
  • See how your DSO is trending—week to week, not just month to month
  • Forecast with confidence, based on actual performance
  • Support strategic planning with live insights into liquidity and collections

It’s not just operational efficiency—it’s a financial advantage.

Automation Drives Results

That’s a powerful stat—and it underscores what’s possible when reporting is automated, embedded, and accurate.

What Modern Reporting Looks Like

Imagine dashboards that show you—in real time—which customers are behind, which regions are outperforming, and where your collections process is falling short.

You don’t need to wait for month-end. You don’t need to request a data pull. You can log into your ERP and see everything—instantly.

With the right tools, reporting becomes:

  • Live and automated
  • Consistent across teams
  • Tied to your cash flow strategy
  • Flexible enough to scale with your business

That’s what AR acceleration looks like at the reporting level.

Bringing AR into Focus

Strong financial decisions start with visibility. When your AR data lives in silos or lags behind reality, it’s hard to plan effectively or respond with confidence. That’s why real-time reporting inside your ERP is a game-changer—not just for finance, but for the business as a whole.

With the right embedded tools, finance teams can monitor performance metrics as they evolve, spot trends faster, and make more informed decisions—without toggling between systems or relying on outdated reports.

Fortis supports this shift by helping you unify and simplify how AR data is captured, tracked, and acted on.

Series Recap: Accelerating AR, End to End

This concludes our four-part Accelerate AR series, where we’ve explored how finance teams can modernize their approach to the full invoice-to-cash cycle:

  • Invoicing – Automate billing and reduce errors with ERP-native workflows
  • Payments – Remove friction and get paid faster with embedded options
  • Reporting – Gain real-time visibility to guide smarter decisions

When these pieces work together, AR becomes more than a function—it becomes a driver of growth.

And the best part? You don’t need to replace your ERP. You just need to extend its power.

Next Steps: Build a Smarter AR Strategy

If your team is ready to move faster, plan with confidence, and reduce manual work, embedded payments could be a powerful next step.

Let’s connect and explore how Fortis can help you streamline your AR process—while keeping everything inside the system you already use.

Empowering Small Businesses, Every Day

Posted on by Chris Haldane

From Main Street to Enterprise—Fortis Helps Businesses Grow

Read time: 3 Minutes

Inspired by national initiatives such as American Express’s Shop Small® movement—which encourages consumers to support local and independent businesses—Fortis shares the same belief: empowering local businesses strengthens communities and drives lasting economic growth.

At Fortis, we believe powerful commerce happens when innovation connects people, businesses, and communities. Every transaction represents trust—and for us, that trust is earned through technology that helps partners and businesses thrive.

While our platform delivers enterprise-grade B2B payment solutions, our impact extends to the small and mid-sized businesses fueling local economies every day. Through our network of software platform partners, we help local entrepreneurs simplify payments, strengthen relationships, and unlock growth opportunities.

Whether it’s a neighborhood shop, service provider, or online seller, Fortis empowers the small businesses that power our communities.

Why Small Businesses Matter More Than Ever

Small businesses are more than storefronts—they’re the creative engine of our economy. They bring innovation, personal connection, and authenticity to every interaction. But running a business today means navigating complex systems, evolving customer expectations, and tighter margins.

That’s where Fortis comes in.

We empower partners and the businesses they serve with modern, embedded payment technology that removes friction and builds efficiency. Our solutions help businesses accept payments anytime, anywhere, across any channel—while streamlining operations and creating consistency that turns everyday transactions into lasting customer loyalty.

When payments work seamlessly, small business owners can focus on what really matters: serving their customers and growing their communities.

The Fortis Difference: Technology + Partnership

At Fortis, we believe that powerful commerce doesn’t just come from great technology—it comes from true partnership. Our approach goes beyond delivering payment capabilities; it’s about helping businesses transform how they operate and grow with confidence.

We combine innovative payment solutions with a partner-centric business model designed for growth. That means simplifying complex payment experiences, scaling seamlessly across channels, and providing dedicated support that helps our partners and businesses thrive.

Through embedded, human-centered technology, Fortis enables small businesses to manage payments effortlessly, improve cash flow, and build stronger relationships with the people they serve.

Empowering Small Businesses—All Year Long

Supporting small businesses isn’t a seasonal initiative—it’s at the heart of what we do. Every day, Fortis helps entrepreneurs simplify operations, accelerate cash flow, and deliver exceptional customer experiences.

Our connected payment experiences bridge in-person, online, and mobile environments—helping business owners focus on what truly matters: growing their business and strengthening their community.

By making payments smarter, faster, and more connected, Fortis turns every transaction into an opportunity for growth.

Connected Commerce Builds Stronger Communities

From enterprise organizations to Main Street businesses, Fortis empowers businesses to scale, simplify, and succeed. By combining cutting-edge technology with the power of partnership, we’re helping businesses of all sizes create meaningful connections, drive growth, and keep communities thriving.

Because when small businesses grow, everyone benefits—and that’s a mission worth supporting every day of the year.

Accelerate Payments: Make It Easy to Get Paid

Posted on by Chris Haldane

This is the third post in our Accelerate AR series—a four-part guide to transforming your invoice-to-cash process using embedded payments inside your ERP.

Today’s focus: how to remove friction from the payment experience, so customers pay faster—and your cash flow keeps moving.

You’ve delivered value. You’ve sent the invoice. But if the payment process is clunky, that revenue may still be weeks—or months—away.

For too many B2B businesses, payments are where momentum breaks down. The process is filled with unnecessary steps, limited options, and outdated systems that frustrate customers and slow down collections.

Getting paid should be simple. Instead, it’s often a manual, time-consuming bottleneck that leaves both your finance team and your customers unhappy.

The Payment Experience is Broken

Here are the common friction points we see: 

  • Limited payment options: Some customers prefer ACH. Others want to use a card or even a digital wallet. If you don’t offer it, they’ll delay. 
  • Disconnected systems: Payments processed outside your ERP require manual matching, increasing errors and wasting time. 
  • Security concerns: If your payment system feels clunky or untrustworthy, customers hesitate to complete the transaction. 
  • Lack of reminders: Without proactive nudges, busy AP departments miss due dates—even if they want to pay. 

All of these issues add friction—and friction kills cash flow.

That means you could be losing nearly six out of ten payments—not because customers won’t pay, but because they can’t pay easily.

That’s a solvable problem.

The Case for Embedded Payments 

The solution? Remove the friction. Let customers pay how they want, when they want—without jumping through hoops. 

Here’s what that looks like in a modern business:

  • Invoices are sent electronically, with embedded payment links
  • Customers click once and choose their preferred method: ACH, credit card, digital wallet, or even check
  • Payments are automatically applied to the correct invoice
  • Finance leaders can see real-time payment status, aging, and Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) metrics—without waiting for manual updates

It’s intuitive, fast, and removes unnecessary complexity—for both sides of the transaction.

How It Works in Practice 

A customer receives an invoice via email with a payment link. They click once, choose their preferred method, and complete the payment on a branded, secure page. That payment is then automatically applied to the correct invoice in your ERP—no manual entry required. 

It’s intuitive, efficient, and scalable. 

Why It Matters 

The longer it takes to receive payment, the more pressure you put on cash reserves, borrowing, and operations.

Accelerating payments isn’t just about improving AR—it impacts your entire business:

  • More working capital means you can invest in growth
  • Lower risk of bad debt protects margins
  • Fewer manual tasks frees up your team for higher-value work
  • Better customer experiences increase retention and loyalty

And when customers can pay how they want, they pay faster. It’s that simple.

Simplifying the Path to Payment

When the payment process is seamless, customers pay faster—and finance teams spend less time chasing down revenue. Embedded payment tools make it possible to offer flexible options, reduce manual steps, and improve real-time visibility across your AR cycle.

Instead of relying on disconnected systems or delayed processes, modern businesses are integrating payment directly into the invoicing experience—meeting customers where they are and getting paid sooner.

That’s the kind of simplicity and scale Fortis helps enable.

What’s Next in the Series  

In our final post, we’ll explore how real-time AR reporting turns data into strategy—and why accurate visibility is key to long-term growth.

Take the Next Step

Talk to Fortis today and see how embedded payments can help you accelerate collections—without increasing the workload.

Fortis Appoints CFO and CROO to Drive Next Growth Phase in Payments Technology

Posted on by Chris Haldane

PLANO, Texas, November 6, 2025 — Fortis, the payment technology leader for software platforms and scaling businesses, today announced the appointments of Brent Coles as Chief Financial Officer and Sharat Shankar as Chief Risk and Operations Officer. The strategic hires position Fortis to accelerate its embedded payments capabilities and deepen relationships across its software platform and enterprise resource planning (ERP) partner network. 

The expanded C-suite reflects Fortis’s commitment to scaling its payments infrastructure as demand grows for integrated financial solutions among software platforms and their business customers. 

“Brent and Sharat join Fortis at a crucial point in our company’s trajectory,” said Greg Cohen, CEO of Fortis. “As we scale to meet increasing market demand, their combined expertise in financial operations, risk management, and strategic partnerships will be critical to our success. Both leaders bring proven track records of driving growth and operational excellence in fast-moving fintech environments.” 

Brent Coles, Chief Financial Officer

Brent Coles brings more than 25 years of fintech and payments leadership to Fortis. He has held senior finance roles at leading payments companies including Onbe, Clearent, and BluePay, where he demonstrated expertise in scaling high-growth businesses, managing M&A transactions, and partnering with private equity sponsors to deliver measurable results. 

At Fortis, Coles will oversee all financial operations, including strategic planning, forecasting, and capital allocation. He will work closely with the executive team to strengthen financial discipline and support strategic growth initiatives across the company’s partner and ERP ecosystems.  

“I joined Fortis because of the significant opportunity ahead,” said Coles. “The company has built strong market positioning and assembled the right technology and team. My focus will be on building the financial infrastructure needed to scale efficiently while delivering value to our customers, partners, and stakeholders.” 

Sharat Shankar, Chief Risk and Operations Officer

Shankar brings deep payments, lending, and fintech expertise to Fortis. Most recently, he served as EVP of Risk at Corpay, a global business spend management platform. His background also includes senior leadership positions at established financial technology companies including Intuit and First Data. 

In his role at Fortis, Shankar will oversee the company’s operations and risk functions, with a focus on operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and partner experience. His expertise will be instrumental as Fortis expands its embedded payments capabilities while maintaining best-in-class risk management practices. 

“The embedded payments space is evolving rapidly, and Fortis is uniquely positioned to lead that transformation,” said Shankar. “I’m excited to work with the team to deliver exceptional partner and customer experiences while enabling scalable growth.” 

About Fortis 

Fortis is the leader in embedded payments for software providers and ERP systems, processing billions annually through its proprietary technology. The company’s mission is to forge holistic commerce experiences that seamlessly integrate within software workflows—transforming payment processing from cost center to strategic advantage. With expertise in software platforms, Fortis moves commerce closer to invisible by strengthening the payments capabilities of software partners, guiding businesses to reach uncharted growth. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Fortis is redefining the $100 trillion B2B payments landscape. Learn more at www.fortispay.com. 

Media Contact 
pr@fortispay.com 

The Hidden Cost of Fragmented AR Workflows: What Tech Leaders Should Know

Posted on by Chris Haldane

Read Time: 6 minutes 

TL;DR: Fragmented AR integrations cost users up to $1.3M annually in lost productivity. 59% of U.S. companies attribute poor cash flow to manual AR processes, while IT teams waste hours maintaining broken integrations. The solution? Native or deeply integrated AR automation delivers 80% faster processing, 70% cost savings, and 20% DSO reduction. Teams should prioritize certified integrations, audit current AR workflows, and eliminate the “invisible project” draining IT resources. 

The Invisible Project Draining Your Resources 

Every company has one: the “invisible project” that no one budgets for, but everyone works on. It’s not a product launch, new initiative or campaign—it’s simply keeping your accounts receivable functional. 

When invoices don’t sync to your ERP, AR data lags, or a connector fails, your tech teams quietly step in. They rebuild, export, reconcile, repeat, all to keep revenue flowing. 

But that invisible project isn’t free. It costs hours of manual work, delayed insights, and missed opportunities that could be spent on strategic growth.

The Cost of Disconnected Payments 

Disconnected payment and AR tools create hidden costs that add up quickly. In fact, 59% of U.S. businesses attribute poor cash flow and forecasting to outdated manual AR methods, while another 57% cite difficulties in managing credit risk (PYMNTS Intelligence, 2024). 

Manual AR processes drain productivity across the organization. According to recent research, half of businesses report excessive time wasted on AR processing, while 44% struggle with collecting delinquent payments (PYMNTS, 2024). Beyond operational challenges, companies face direct financial losses: studies suggest businesses can lose up to $1.3 million annually on inefficient processes (Formstack/Mantis Research, 2022). 

The time cost is staggering. Each hour spent reconciling data, managing logins, or manually re-keying information is time your team could be using to move the business forward.

The IT Bottleneck: When Your Tech Team Becomes a Manual Data Bridge 

When payment processors, billing platforms, and AR automation tools don’t integrate seamlessly someone has to fill the gap—usually your IT or Applications teams. Sometimes it falls to the Finance leader who knows the workflow best but doesn’t have bandwidth to manage yet another integration project. 

The result? Your tech team becomes a human middleware layer. They’re constantly building custom scripts, managing API connections, creating saved searches for data exports, or worse—manually entering payment data into their ERP because the integration broke again. 

According to the National Automated Clearing House Association, 71% of remittance information associated with electronic payments travels separately from the actual payment, forcing AR teams to manually match payments to invoices (Citizens Bank Corporate Finance Insights). This often means toggling between multiple systems, exporting data, and using spreadsheets to reconcile what should be automatic. 

Teams find themselves spending valuable time on: 

  • Re-creating APIs when third-party connectors fail 
  • Building and maintaining custom connectors for data transformations 
  • Manual cash application because payment data doesn’t map to invoices 
  • Creating workarounds when batch imports fail or take too long 
  • Troubleshooting why payment gateway data isn’t syncing to customer records 

This fragmentation doesn’t just slow operations—it damages team morale and retention. Accounts Receivable staff are especially vulnerable to defections: according to the Institute of Finance and Management, 27% say they plan to leave within the next year, and nearly half say they’ll leave within three years (IOFM, 2023).  

When talented developers and systems administrators spend their time on repetitive integration fixes instead of innovation, disengagement follows. Disengagement due to manual processes costs organizations $3,400 for every $10,000 in salary (OPEN.money, 2024).

The ROI of Integration 

The business case for AR automation is compelling. Companies that implement comprehensive automation solutions report significant benefits: 

  • Processing time reductions of up to 80% and cost cuts of 30-40% on manual processes (SNS Insider Market Research, 2024) 
  • Reduction in Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) by up to 20% (multiple industry sources) 
  • Invoicing cost savings exceeding 70% when transitioning to automation (HighRadius, 2024) 
  • 83% of AR executives report improved process efficiency and accuracy after implementing automation (PYMNTS Intelligence, 2024) 

The AR automation market is experiencing explosive growth, projected to increase from $3.2 billion in 2025 to $8.6 billion by 2035, with a compound annual growth rate of 10.3% (Future Market Insights, 2025). This growth reflects the urgent business need for integrated solutions.

From Fragmentation to Flow: Invisible Work Becomes Visible Impact 

The path forward requires more than just new software—it demands integrated systems that reduce manual handoffs and give teams real-time visibility into the entire order-to-cash cycle. 

Modern AR automation platforms offer: 

Seamless Integration 

  • Native connectors or prebuilt integrations that eliminate custom coding 
  • Real-time, bi-directional data sync between payment systems and your ERP 
  • Automatic cash application that posts directly to customer records and invoices 
  • No more CSV exports, batch uploads, or manual reconciliation 

AI-Powered Intelligence 

  • Predictive analytics for customer payment behavior based on your transaction history 
  • Automated credit risk scoring that updates customer credit limits 
  • Smart payment matching that handles partial payments, credits, and discrepancies 
  • Machine learning that improves accuracy over time 

Automated Collections That Scale 

  • Dunning workflows that trigger based on invoice aging 
  • Multi-channel payment reminders (email, SMS, portal) with embedded payment links 
  • Customer self-service portals that pull live data from your system 
  • Automated escalation paths based on customer payment history 

Real-Time Financial Visibility 

  • Dashboards that reflect current AR data without manual reporting 
  • Cash flow forecasting based on actual receivables and payment patterns 
  • Custom saved searches and KPI tracking integrated with your ERP analytics 
  • Role-based access that works with your existing permission structure 

For organizations still relying on manual processes, the window to act is narrowing. Invoice volumes are projected to increase by 46% over the next three years (PYMNTS Intelligence, 2024), which will only magnify existing inefficiencies.

Taking Action 

Tech leaders should: 

  1. Audit current AR processes to identify the most time-consuming and error-prone manual tasks 
  1. Calculate the true cost of fragmentation, including staff time, delayed payments, and opportunity costs 
  1. Prioritize integration capabilities when evaluating automation solutions—58% of enterprises consider integration a key factor in selecting financial automation software (IMARC Group, 2024) 
  1. Select scalable cloud-based solutions that can grow with your business and integrate with existing systems 
  1. Focus on change management with strong training and support to ensure successful adoption 

The invisible project of keeping AR functional doesn’t have to drain your organization’s resources. With the right integrated automation platform, tech teams can shift from firefighting disconnected systems to enabling strategic growth.

Sources 

Accelerate AR: Fast-Tracking Financial Performance with Fortis 

Posted on by Chris Haldane

Post 1: Why It’s Time to Accelerate Your AR Workflow  
Read Time: 4 minutes 

This post kicks off our Accelerate AR series—a four-part guide to transforming your invoice-to-cash process using embedded payments inside your ERP. 

First up: Why manual Accounts Receivable (AR) is slowing you down, and what to do about it. 

In a perfect world, invoicing would be instant, payments would post immediately, and reporting would offer a crystal-clear view of cash flow. But for many mid-market B2B companies, the reality is different: invoices get delayed, payments arrive late, and reporting feels more like guesswork than a decision-making tool.  

These inefficiencies often stem from outdated, fragmented processes. Despite investing in ERP systems to centralize operations, many companies still rely on spreadsheets and manual workarounds for AR tasks. If your team is switching between tools, manually entering invoice data, and chasing payments without clear visibility, your AR process is likely holding you back. 

The results can be painful:  

  • Payments trickling in well past due dates  
  • Hours lost each week to reconciliation and follow-up  
  • Limited insight into Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) and cash flow forecasts  
  • Mounting frustration across finance, sales, and customer service  

It’s a common reality, and it’s costly. Businesses in the Americas lose over 50% of unpaid receivables that aren’t settled within 90 days. On average, 4% of accounts receivable are written off entirely.
Source: Atradius & U.S. Census Bureau 

The Hidden Cost of Staying “Good Enough”  

Too often, AR workflows are seen as a back-office task—not a business growth opportunity. But in an environment where speed and accuracy matter more than ever, staying stuck in outdated processes puts your financial health at risk.  

Even incremental delays can cascade into:  

  • Missed revenue opportunities  
  • Cash flow shortfalls that impact budgeting or expansion  
  • Lower customer satisfaction due to billing confusion or payment friction  

It’s not just about operational efficiency—it’s about unlocking real financial performance. 

What If AR Could Move as Fast as Your Business?  

That’s where true transformation begins—not just faster workflows, but smarter, more connected ones that accelerate every step of your AR process. 

When you embed payments into your ERP environment, you create a single, frictionless AR system that works across your invoicing, payment collection, and reporting functions. You reduce touchpoints, minimize errors, and gain full control over your cash cycle.  

Imagine:  

  • Invoices sent the moment a sale closes  
  • Customers paying instantly using their preferred method  
  • Payments posting automatically to the correct account  
  • Finance having real-time visibility into every step  

This isn’t a future-state—it’s what embedded AR can deliver today.  

Why Now?  

Companies that haven’t modernized their AR systems are feeling it: longer collection cycles, higher operating costs, and a lack of data clarity to plan effectively. In contrast, businesses that integrate payments within their ERP are reclaiming time, reducing DSO, and scaling with less friction.  

Modernizing AR isn’t just a technology decision—it’s a growth strategy.  

Turning Strategy into Action 

Fragmented AR processes don’t just slow you down—they make it harder to plan, respond, and grow. When invoicing, payments, and reporting operate in silos, inefficiencies compound and visibility fades. 

But for companies using embedded payment solutions within their ERP, the story looks different. 

With a single, connected workflow, finance teams can streamline invoicing, enable easier payments, and monitor key AR metrics in real time—all without switching platforms or adding new tools to manage. 

That’s the power of embedded AR—and it’s what Fortis is built to support. 

Where to Go from Here  

Accelerating AR starts with recognizing the friction—and then replacing it with smart, embedded processes that work the way your business does. 

In this four-part series, we’ll explore how Fortis helps finance teams automate the full invoice-to-cash journey: 

  • In our next post, we’ll break down the hidden costs of manual invoicing—and how native ERP automation speeds up billing and reduces errors. 
  • Then we’ll look at the payment experience: what’s slowing it down and how to eliminate the barriers that frustrate customers and delay revenue. 
  • Finally, we’ll dive into AR reporting—and how real-time visibility transforms AR from a reactive function into a strategic growth driver. 

Each post will offer practical insights and examples to help you modernize your AR process—and set your team up to scale. 

Ready to uncover hidden inefficiencies in your AR process? Talk to a Fortis expert to see how embedded payments can streamline invoicing, reduce delays, and give your finance team time back. 

Making Every Checkout Count: Preparing for eCommerce Peak Season

Posted on by fortis2025

Read time: 3 minutes

Every year, the fourth quarter brings both excitement and anxiety for eCommerce businesses. Orders surge, expectations rise, and the margin for error narrows.

Inventory must stay ahead of demand, customer service teams are stretched thin, and checkout experiences are pushed to the limit. Yet amid all the moving parts, one truth remains constant: the path to conversion can be won or lost in just a few clicks.

Before rushing to optimize or overhaul checkout systems, it’s worth asking a simple question—what’s actually driving customers to abandon their carts?

Is it slow page speed? Confusing payment options? A checkout flow that feels disconnected from the rest of the brand experience? Identifying those friction points is the first step toward building a checkout that not only works under pressure but earns trust.

Understanding the Real Challenge

Peak season success isn’t just about handling higher volume—it’s about delivering consistent, seamless experiences when predictability is scarce.

Shoppers and buyers alike expect fast, secure, and frictionless experiences. For B2C, that means mobile-optimized checkouts and trusted wallet options. For B2B, it means flexibility—the ability to process invoices, large orders, and store payment methods while keeping transactions simple and secure.

Both audiences want one thing: to complete their purchase without barriers.

That’s where embedded payments come in.

How Embedded Payments Simplify the Experience

When payments are fully embedded within your eCommerce platform, you remove a major source of friction. Customers stay within your environment, see your branding throughout the process, and complete their purchase without being redirected elsewhere.

With Fortis embedded payments, businesses running on WooCommerce, Adobe Commerce, or BigCommerce can unify their payment experience across channels—online and in-store—while maintaining reliability, speed, and security.

For B2B sellers, Fortis supports complex purchase flows such as quote-to-cash and recurring billing without interrupting the buying journey. For B2C retailers, that same embedded foundation ensures fast, familiar transactions—even at peak traffic.

For partners and integrators, it means faster implementation, stronger customer retention, and scalable growth across every industry vertical.

Partnering for Growth, Not Just Transactions

Behind every Fortis integration is a partnership built for scale. We work with eCommerce platforms, ISVs, and solution providers to help their customers grow confidently through the busy season and beyond.

  • WooCommerce: Streamlined plugin setup that connects directly to the Fortis Gateway.
  • Adobe Commerce: Certified App Assurance Partner, meeting enterprise-grade performance and compliance standards.
  • BigCommerce: Embedded payments for omnichannel checkout and unified reporting across online and retail environments.

These aren’t just integrations—they’re trust-building tools for businesses, partners, and customers alike.

Preparing for the Season Ahead

The brands that win this shopping season won’t be the ones with the loudest campaigns—they’ll be the ones with the smoothest path to purchase.

Diagnosing the problem before delivering the solution is what drives long-term success. That’s why Fortis starts by helping B2B and B2C eCommerce businesses and partners identify friction, simplify payment experiences, and prepare for what comes next.

Peak season doesn’t wait—and neither will your customers.

Ready to optimize your checkout before the peak hits? Talk to our team.

Fortis on Visa’s Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP): A New Era for B2B Payments

Posted on by Alex M

As of April 2025, Visa officially launched the Commercial Enhanced Data Program (CEDP), introducing a new model that adds a 0.05% participation fee on eligible B2B U.S. commercial and small business card transactions submitted with Level 2 or Level 3 data for validation—while also reducing interchange rates by 7–10% for businesses who consistently submit accurate Level 3 data.

This is more than just a rule change. It signals a new era—where data quality isn’t optional; it’s the currency for lowering costs and building trust across the B2B ecosystem.

What Changed 

  • Visa will review B2B transactions using advanced validation technology to verify data quality. Businesses are classified as Verified or Non-Verified based on data quality. 
  • Scope matters: CEDP applies to U.S. B2B purchases made with commercial and small business cards  
  • Level 2 & Level 3 are being phased out and replaced with Product 3 rates. 
    • Level 3 is phased out 10/17/25  
    • Level 2 is phased out April 2026 
  • Verified businesses win big. Those consistently providing accurate data qualify for lower interchange—for example, some Product 3 (formerly Level 3) rates move from 1.90% + $0.10 to 1.75% + $0.10—netting an overall 7–10% savings after the 0.05% fee. 
  • Businesses who don’t adapt will see new CEDP line-item fees on their statements but won’t realize the interchange savings—resulting in higher effective costs. 

Why Visa Is Moving in This Direction 

The old Level 2/3 model rewarded businesses who submitted more detailed transaction data, but quality was inconsistent. Some issuers received clean data; others received partial or error-prone records. 

Visa’s answer is to set a higher bar. Auto-populated enhanced data fields that were often inaccurate are no longer supported. Now, only businesses who submit complete, validated data fields qualify.  

CEDP aligns cost savings with data accuracy. That means businesses that invest in complete, validated transaction detail now gain both economic and operational advantages. 

For businesses, this marks a turning point in B2B payments: smarter data practices directly translate into competitive advantage.

The Bigger Picture: B2B Payments Modernization 

CEDP isn’t happening in isolation. It reflects a larger trend: 

  • Businesses demand real-time visibility into spend. 
  • Finance leaders want automation in reconciliation and reporting. 
  • Suppliers expect smarter controls around purchasing and invoicing. 

Visa’s program doesn’t just lower fees for good data—it encourages businesses to modernize their financial infrastructure for the decade ahead.  

CEDP is not just about compliance. It’s about building a payments foundation that enables growth, efficiency, and resilience. 

What Businesses Should Do Now 

  1. Evaluate your data capture. Are you reliably sending invoice numbers, line-item details, and tax information? If not, you’ll lose out. 
  2. Ask your payments partner how they’re supporting CEDP. While other providers stop at compliance, Fortis helps you transform compliance into a growth advantage—automating enhanced data capture so you consistently qualify for the lowest rates and unlock smarter business insights. 
  3. Monitor your statements. Starting April 2025, new CEDP line-item fees will appear on eligible Visa transactions. Make sure your processor is applying reduced interchange correctly, without padding old rates. 
  4. Think beyond compliance. The same data that unlocks lower interchange can also fuel stronger decision-making across finance, procurement, and supplier relationships. 

The Fortis Perspective 

At Fortis, we see CEDP as an opportunity—not just to reduce costs, but to modernize how businesses approach payments.

We’ve built integrations that make compliance seamless, automating the capture and validation of enhanced data inside the transaction flow—ensuring our partners and their customers stay ahead.  That means reduced manual effort, consistent qualification for the lowest Product 3 rates, and actionable insights that extend far beyond interchange savings. 

CEDP is here. Costs are changing. The question isn’t whether your business will have to adopt—it’s whether you’ll treat this shift as a burden or as a chance to strengthen your payments strategy. 

We believe it’s the latter. And we’re here to make sure our partners capture every advantage. 

The future of B2B payments belongs to those who adapt—and Fortis is committed to leading the way. 

Ready to see how CEDP can benefit your business? Connect with Fortis today to learn how we can help you stay compliant, lower costs, and unlock the next level of B2B payments efficiency. 

All You Need to Know About Chargebacks

Posted on by Alex M

Read time: 4 minutes 

Chargebacks are more than a back-office nuisance—they directly impact cash flow, customer trust, and platform reputation. With fraud on the rise, businesses across industries like hospitality, healthcare, and professional services are feeling the strain. 

Understanding how chargebacks work—and how to reduce them—can protect your revenue and strengthen customer relationships. 

What Are Chargebacks? 

A chargeback occurs when a cardholder disputes a transaction through their issuing bank. While the claim is under review, the bank typically issues the cardholder a provisional credit and pulls the funds from the business’ account (commonly referred to in payments as the “merchant account”). 

Sometimes disputes are legitimate, triggered by fraud or billing errors. But often they’re the result of “friendly fraud” (a customer disputes a valid transaction) or “criminal fraud” (a purchase made with stolen card data). 

For businesses, the consequences go beyond the immediate financial loss. High chargeback ratios raise red flags with processing banks, leading to penalties, higher fees, or even restrictions on your ability to accept payments.

Types of Chargeback Fraud 

While some chargebacks are unavoidable, fraudsters frequently exploit the system. The most common types include: 

  • Friendly Fraud: A customer disputes a purchase even though the goods or services were received. This is especially common in recurring-service models or hospitality, where services can’t be “returned.” 
  • Criminal Fraud: Purchases made with stolen card details, often detected only after the transaction has cleared. 
  • Business Error: Disputes caused by unclear refund policies, duplicate charges, or misrepresented services.

How the Chargeback Process Work 

The chargeback lifecycle involves multiple players—cardholders, issuers, networks, and businesses—and can stretch weeks or even months. 

Typical flow:

  1. Cardholder dispute – The cardholder files a claim with their issuing bank. 
  2. Issuer review – The bank validates the request. 
  3. Bank notification – The claim is sent to the merchant’s processing bank. 
  4. Funds withdrawn – The merchant’s account is debited. 
  5. Merchant response – The business can accept or contest the claim, typically within ten days. 
  6. Issuer decision – The bank reviews evidence and rules on the case. 

This process can take three to four weeks. Cardholders often have up to 120 days to file a dispute, and in cases involving ongoing service agreements, that window may extend up to a year. 

Businesses typically have just ten days to respond with compelling evidence, which makes preparation and recordkeeping critical. 

If disputes escalate further, the case may move to arbitration with the card brand. If the ruling favors the cardholder, the business may face additional arbitration fees on top of the lost revenue.

Common Causes of Chargebacks 

Chargebacks can result from fraud, error, or customer dissatisfaction. Frequent triggers include: 

  • Unauthorized or fraudulent transactions 
  • Duplicate charges or incorrect billing amounts 
  • Misleading product or service descriptions 
  • Poorly communicated refund or cancellation policies 
  • Service disputes (goods not delivered as promised) 

How to Minimize Chargebacks 

The best defense is prevention. Businesses can reduce disputes by: 

  • Set clear expectations – Publish transparent refund and cancellation policies. 
  • Ensure accurate billing – Verify transaction details and avoid duplicate charges. 
  • Strengthen fraud protection – Use tokenization, CVV checks, address verification, and fraud detection tools. 
  • Maintain detailed records – Keep receipts, delivery confirmations, and customer communications. 
  • Resolve issues quickly – Offer fast, accessible support to prevent escalations. 
  • Audit regularly – Identify and fix recurring issues that trigger disputes. 

Why it Matters for Platforms & Businesses 

 For software platforms embedding payments, helping businesses minimize chargebacks isn’t just risk management—it’s a value driver. Lower chargeback ratios mean improved cash flow, stronger customer trust, and sustainable revenue. 

At Fortis, we work with partners and businesses to simplify chargeback management, combining fraud prevention tools with hands-on dispute support. Our goal: make it easier to focus on growth, not back-office battles.

By the Numbers: Chargebacks at a Glance 

What This Means for Your Business 

Chargebacks can’t always be avoided—but they can be managed. By understanding how disputes arise, strengthening fraud prevention, and prioritizing clear communication, businesses can keep ratios under control and protect long-term revenue. 

Fortis partners with platforms and businesses to turn payments into a strategic advantage—reducing chargebacks, safeguarding relationships, and ensuring smoother operations. 

Interested in learning more about how chargebacks can affect your industry? Book a demo with our team of payment professionals today. 

Fortis Enables Software Platforms to Support Contactless Commerce with Tap to Pay on iPhone  

Posted on by Alex M

Plano, Texas – September 23, 2025 – Fortis, a leader in embedded payments and commerce technology, today announced support for Apple’s Tap to Pay on iPhone technology, allowing software providers to enable their business customers to seamlessly and securely accept in-person contactless payment acceptance through their iOS apps using only an iPhone — no additional hardware required. 

With Tap to Pay on iPhone, software providers can enable businesses to accept all forms of contactless payments in person — including credit and debit cards, Apple Pay, and other digital wallets — using an iPhone XS or later, running the latest version of iOS. This eliminates the need for traditional card readers, offering a streamlined solution for mobile-first businesses. 

“Tap to Pay on iPhone is a major milestone in the evolution of commerce, eliminating hardware barriers and enabling businesses to accept payments anywhere with ease,” said Greg Cohen, CEO of Fortis. “By bringing this capability to our partners, we’re empowering software platforms to stay at the forefront of innovation—delivering best-in-class technology and seamless payment experiences to their customers.” 

Built for Software Platforms, Designed for Businesses 

Fortis’ support for Tap to Pay on iPhone allows developers and ISVs to build fully embedded, native iOS payment acceptance solutions without additional hardware. Developers can integrate the solution directly into their apps to support flexible contactless payments across mobile, service-based, and in-store environments. “For high-volume hospitality, every second counts. Tap to Pay on iPhone helps us speed up transactions and reduce friction at point of sale,” said Alex Broeker, CEO and Founder of Union, a leading POS and engagement platform powering the hospitality industry. “With support from Fortis, our clients can serve more guests, turn more tables, and boost revenue using only their iPhones—without adding hardware.” 

“This launch reflects our continued investment in equipping developers with forward-thinking tools that drive innovation and scale,” said Kevin Shamoun, SVP of Product & Innovation at Fortis. “By supporting Tap to Pay on iPhone, we’re enabling our partners to deliver seamless point-of-sale experiences from field services to mobile operators to counter services that are fully embedded in their own branded environments.”

Key Benefits of Fortis Support for Tap to Pay on iPhone: 

  • Developer Enablement: Partners integrate directly into their iOS applications while retaining full control over the user experience. 
  • Mobility and Flexibility: Ideal for mobile professionals, field services, pop-ups, in-store line busting, and more. 
  • No Extra Hardware: Eliminates the need for traditional payment terminals, reducing cost and complexity. 
  • Security and Privacy: Leverages iPhone’s built-in features to protect business and customer data—Apple does not store card numbers on the device or its servers, so merchants and customers can rest assured that their data stays theirs. * 
  • Omnichannel Continuity: Connects seamlessly to the Fortis platform for unified reporting, settlement, and reconciliation. 

For more information about Fortis, visit www.fortispay.com. 

*Encrypted card numbers are temporarily stored on iPhone only for transactions made in Store and Forward mode. 

About Fortis

Fortis is the leader in embedded payments for software providers and ERP systems, processing billions annually through its proprietary technology. The company’s mission is to forge holistic commerce experiences that seamlessly integrate within software workflows—transforming payment processing from cost center to strategic advantage. With expertise in software platforms, Fortis moves commerce closer to invisible by strengthening the payments capabilities of software partners, guiding businesses to reach uncharted growth. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Fortis is redefining the $100 trillion B2B payments landscape. 

Media Contact 
pr@fortispay.com 
Plano, Texas

Fortis and BigCommerce Announce Payments Partnership to Simplify Checkout and Accelerate Business Growth 

Posted on by Alex M

Plano, TX, and Austin, TX – September 16, 2025 — Fortis, a leader in embedded payments and commerce technology, today announced a strategic partnership with BigCommerce, powered by Commerce (Nasdaq: CMRC), a leading open, flexible enterprise ecommerce platform built to help brands, retailers, manufacturers, and merchants of all sizes grow and innovate without compromise. Through this integration, BigCommerce customers—including mid-market B2B sellers, distributors, service-based businesses, and developers—gain access to Fortis’ embedded payments technology. The solution enables real-time transactions, simplified reconciliation, and next-day funding, while eliminating third-party gateways and fragmented systems. This partnership improves checkout conversion, strengthens operational efficiency, and supports sustainable growth at scale. 

“The partnership with BigCommerce marks a defining moment in our mission to transform payments from operational necessity into a growth engine,” said Greg Cohen, CEO of Fortis. “As BigCommerce evolves under the Commerce brand, Fortis is proud to power the future of embedded commerce—where integrated payments deliver unmatched speed, scale, and strategic advantage. Together, we are reimagining the future of checkout and beyond.”  

“Today’s merchants need agility in order to stay competitive,” said Russell Klein, Chief Commercial Officer at Commerce. “Fortis delivers the flexibility and strategic partnership that allows businesses to streamline payments while staying focused on delivering exceptional customer experiences.”

Simplification. Scale. Partnership. 

Fortis is designed to help businesses meet the demands of modern eCommerce with: 

  • Integrated checkout solution that reduces friction and reflects brand identity 
  • Simplified reconciliation and reduced backend complexity  
  • Unified digital payments across eCommerce and mobile channels 
  • Next-day funding for faster access to working capital 
  • Compliant surcharging options to lower payment acceptance costs 
  • Global reach with support for 135+ currencies and diverse payment methods 
  • Developer-friendly architecture via tokenized APIs and plug-and-play tools 
  • Built-in fraud protection and PCI compliance to reduce risk and ensure trust 

With this partnership, Fortis and BigCommerce are redefining the checkout experience, turning payments into a strategic advantage. By embedding innovation directly into the commerce experience, businesses gain the tools to scale faster, operate smarter, and deliver seamless customer journeys across all channels.  

###

About Fortis 

Fortis is the leader in embedded payments for software providers and ERP systems, processing billions annually through its proprietary technology. The company’s mission is to forge holistic commerce experiences that seamlessly integrate within software workflows—transforming payment processing from cost center to strategic advantage. With expertise in software platforms, Fortis moves commerce closer to invisible by strengthening the payments capabilities of software partners, guiding businesses to reach uncharted growth. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Fortis is redefining the $100 trillion B2B payments landscape. Learn more at www.fortispay.com. 

About BigCommerce 

BigCommerce, powered by Commerce (Nasdaq: CMRC), is a flexible enterprise ecommerce platform built to help brands, retailers, manufacturers, and merchants of all sizes grow and innovate without compromise. In today’s era of agentic commerce, BigCommerce’s flexible, open platform architecture makes it easy for brands to scale, adapt, and connect with the tools to solve their unique business challenges without being locked into rigid systems. B2C and B2B companies across industries rely on BigCommerce, including Coldwater Creek, Harvey Nichols, King Arthur Baking Co., Mizuno, MKM Building Supplies, United Aqua Group, and Uplift Desk. For more information, please visit bigcommerce.com or follow us on X and LinkedIn.

Media Contacts 
Fortis 
pr@fortispay.com

BigCommerce 
press@bigcommerce.com

Fortis Expands Embedded Payments Capabilities with Adobe Commerce Extension and App Assurance Certification

Posted on by Alex M

FortisPay App Extension for Adobe Commerce Delivers Scalable and Seamless Payments for B2B and Services Businesses

PLANO, Texas, Aug. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fortis, a leader in embedded payments and commerce technology, today announced the launch of its FortisPay extension for Adobe Commerce, earning Adobe Commerce App Assurance Program Certification and reinforcing its commitment to secure, scalable, and seamless payment experiences.

This milestone highlights Fortis’ commitment to empowering B2B and services businesses with flexible payment solutions that streamline operations and enhance ecommerce experiences. The extension is designed to support software platforms, system integrators, digital agencies, and Value-Added Resellers (VARs) with robust embedded payment capabilities.

“Our extension for Adobe Commerce is built to streamline payment workflows and deliver frictionless, secure checkout experiences tailored for B2B and services businesses,” said Greg Cohen, CEO of Fortis. “We’re helping businesses personalize buying experiences and unlock new revenue opportunities through embedded payments.”

The FortisPay app extension for Adobe Commerce streamlines payment processing and optimizes checkout for omnichannel retail.

Key Benefits for Businesses

  • Flexible Payment Options – Accept eCheck, ACH, credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and more.
  • Recurring Commerce at Scale – Safely and securely store payment information and monitor for expired cards with proprietary account management technology.
  • B2B Optimization – Level 2 and Level 3 processing to improve efficiency and transparency while minimizing costs.
  • Enhanced Operations – Real-time order status updates embedded directly in the ecommerce platform.
  • ERP Integrations– Embedded workflows with NetSuite, Microsoft, Sage, Acumatica, and other leading ERP solutions.
  • Scalability – Future-proof solutions support omnichannel business growth and evolving payment needs.

Key Benefits for Partners

  • Adobe Commerce App Assurance Certified – Validated for security, performance, and quality, to ensure merchant reliability.
  • Seamless Interaction – Tokenized APIs and a plug-and-play iframe reduce development time.
  • Revenue Growth Opportunities – Access Fortis’ partner programs to monetize payments and expand service offerings.

“B2B buyers expect the same easy, flexible, and personalized checkout experience they get as consumers,” said Stephen Moulton, Senior Manager, Technology Partner Program at Adobe. “This integration gives Adobe Commerce merchants access to a secure, scalable payments platform so they can automate payment steps and personalize the checkout experience for complex B2B transactions.”

With billions of dollars in payments processed annually, Fortis is driving the next generation of commerce innovation – empowering businesses to thrive in the digital economy.

Visit https://fortis.com/b2b-erp/ to explore our integrations and solutions.

Media/Press Contact:
pr@fortispay.com

The Microsoft Partner Advantage: Grow with Embedded Payments 

Posted on by Alex M

Read time: 4 minutes 

Navigating the Microsoft partner ecosystem can be complex. As a consultant, systems integrator, or implementation specialist, your role extends beyond ERP installations. Clients increasingly expect complete, seamless financial experiences that not only improve efficiency but also support stronger business outcomes. 

One area that’s often overlooked? Embedded payments.  

By embedding payment solutions directly into Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central (BC), partners have an opportunity to create more connected financial workflows, improve client operations, and differentiate their services.

Why Embedded Payments Matter for Microsoft Partners 

For Microsoft partners, payments aren’t just about processing transactions. When thoughtfully embedded, they become a tool for simplifying workflows, reducing manual effort, and increasing financial accuracy. Within Business Central, integrated payments can help partners: 

  • Expand service offerings → Move beyond core ERP implementations to deliver end-to-end financial solutions. 
  • Enable recurring value → Create ongoing opportunities through managed services and continuous support. 
  • Strengthen client relationships → Help clients accelerate cash flow, streamline AR, and reconcile with ease. 
  • Differentiate in the market → Provide solutions that have a direct, measurable impact on client outcomes. 

In other words, embedding payments reframes partners as not just implementers, but as trusted advisors in their clients’ long-term growth journeys.

Real-World Advantages for Microsoft Partners  

Deliver A Unified Financial Workflow  

Disconnected financial systems lead to errors, delays, and frustration. Embedding payments within Business Central creates a seamless experience—minimizing redundancy, reducing risk, and delivering the automation clients expect. 

Establish Ongoing Engagement 

Unlike project-based services, integrated payments support a more continuous relationship. Whether through subscription models, transaction facilitation, or support services, partners can stay engaged with clients well beyond go-live. 

Deepen Client Trust 

Process improvements such as faster cash flow, more accurate reporting, and reduced reconciliation challenges give clients tangible value—strengthening trust and confidence in your expertise. 

Differentiate Your Practice 

In a crowded ecosystem, specialization sets you apart. Offering embedded payments demonstrates foresight and innovation, qualities that resonate with clients and lead to stronger retention and referrals.

How Fortis Supports Microsoft Partners 

Whether you’re exploring embedded payments for the first time or are reevaluating your strategy, Fortis offers a collaborative, partner-centric approach. Our solutions are: 

  • Flexible and scalable → Designed for smooth integration with Business Central. 
  • Hands-on and supportive → Backed by technical expertise and partner enablement support. 
  • Tailored for growth → Built to help deepen client value and evolve your service model. 

Our goal is to empower partners with the knowledge, resources, and support to make embedded payments a natural extension of the services you already provide. 

Rethinking Payments as a Growth Strategy 

Embedding payments isn’t about adding another layer of software—it’s about enhancing the solutions you already deliver. By incorporating payments into your Business Central practice, you can: 

  • Provide clients with modern, connected financial experiences. 
  • Unlock recurring engagement opportunities. 
  • Drive operational improvements that build long-term trust. 

With ERP clients increasingly seeking integrated financial workflows, the partners who adopt this mindset today will be best positioned to lead tomorrow.

Want to Learn More? 

If you’re curious about how embedded payments can fit into your Microsoft practice, Fortis offers resources, guidance, and collaborative support to help you explore the possibilities.

What Are Embedded Payments and How Do They Work?

Posted on by Alex M

Embedded Payments aren’t just another fintech buzzword—they’re transforming how both software platforms and the businesses they serve connect commerce with experience. For software platforms and businesses, integrating payments directly into their technology stacks opens up new ways to create smoother interactions, reduce friction, and deepen customer relationships. 

Instead of routing users to third-party sites or making them re-enter payment details, embedded payments keep the entire transaction experience within your platform. Users never leave their environment, creating a seamless flow that eliminates friction, boosts conversion rates, and enhances user satisfaction. That level of integration is no longer a competitive edge; it’s the standard.  

According to Bain & Company, financial services embedded into e-commerce and other software platforms accounted for $2.6 trillion, or nearly 5% of total U.S. financial transactions in 2021. By 2026, that figure is expected to exceed $7 trillion. Embedded payments are at the core of that growth.

What Are Embedded Payments? 

Embedded payments allow users to pay for products or services without leaving the application or platform they’re already using. The checkout experience becomes native to the software—whether that’s a vertical SaaS platform, a patient portal, or a specialty retail app. 

Here’s a typical flow: 

The result? A faster, simpler experience for the end customer and a more efficient, revenue-generating solution for the business and the platform.

Why Embedded Payments Matter 

Embedded payments create value across the ecosystem—both for the platforms that deliver them and the businesses that rely on them. 

For platforms, embedded payments unlock powerful monetization opportunities. What was once a back-end function becomes a growth engine—driving revenue, increasing platform retention, and creating a more integrated, value-added experience for users. 

For the businesses using these platforms, embedded payments streamline day-to-day operations and improve the customer journey. By embedding payment capabilities directly into their workflows—whether online, in-app, or in-person—businesses can simplify transactions, speed up checkout, and deliver a more professional and consistent experience to their customers.

Why Fortis? 

Fortis partners with software platforms to embed payments in ways that feel intuitive to the end user—and powerful for the platform. Our goal is simple: turn payments into a revenue engine that strengthens customer relationships, drives platform retention, and accelerates growth. 

What sets us apart is how we work. Unlike providers that take a transactional approach, Fortis leads with a “high service, high growth” mindset. We take an active role in helping our partners succeed—offering deep expertise, hands-on support, and flexible solutions tailored to your software and the businesses you serve. 

Fortis equips you with the tools and partnership to turn payments into a growth engine—helping you scale smarter, retain more customers, and unlock new revenue streams. 

Embedded Payments: Turning Checkout into a Strategic Advantage

Posted on by Alex M

Getting a customer to the checkout page is only half the battle. The last step of the buyer journey is often the hardest—and where revenue is won or lost. 

For businesses and platforms alike, clunky checkout experiences don’t just frustrate customers—they also create friction that increases cart abandonment, delays cash flow, and drains internal resources. According to the Baymard Institute, nearly 70% of online transactions stall before completion, with friction in the payment step being among the top culprits.  

The good news? Embedded payments change the story. By making checkout seamless, integrated, and secure, they help businesses speed up transactions, strengthen customer relationships, and unlock new growth opportunities.

Why Embedded Payments Matter 

Embedded payments transform checkout from a technical hurdle into a growth driver: 

  • For customers → Faster, easier, more secure checkouts build trust and encourage repeat purchases. 
  • For businesses → Streamlined operations, faster cash flow, and fewer abandoned carts. 
  • For platforms and partners → Stronger retention, new monetization opportunities, and higher customer satisfaction. 

Instead of viewing payments as an afterthought, leading platforms and mid-market businesses now see them as a core part of customer experience and long-term growth.

For Software Platforms: Retain More Users, Unlock More Revenue 

Checkout isn’t just a back-end function—it’s a brand moment. For platforms managing complex catalogs, omnichannel fulfillment, and high expectations, embedded payments eliminate fragile plug-ins and third-party redirects. 

With embedded payments, platforms can: 

  • Offer faster checkout options like one-click repeat purchases and stored payment methods 
  • Support multiple payment types—cards, ACH, and digital wallets like Apple Pay 
  • Provide native subscription billing and seamless compliance tools 

The result: platforms differentiate their offering, improve user retention, and gain new upsell opportunities.

For Partners: Deliver Value Without the Headaches 

Agencies, system integrators, and developers know the pain of dealing with outdated plugins, constant troubleshooting, and compliance issues. Each support ticket eats into margin and erodes client trust. 

With embedded payment solutions, partners gain access to: 

  • Pre-built extensions for top platforms like Adobe Commerce, Magento, BigCommerce, WooCommerce, and Shopify 
  • Robust APIs and sandbox environments for customization 
  • Ongoing technical support and enterprise-grade scalability 

That means faster go-lives, fewer maintenance calls, and stronger client relationships.

For Mid-Market Businesses: Faster Cash Flow, Less Manual Work 

For B2B and service-driven companies, payment processes don’t stop at checkout—they touch invoicing, fulfillment, and accounting. Manual reconciliation wastes time and slows down revenue recognition. 

Embedding payments into ERP systems like Sage, NetSuite, Microsoft, and Acumatica helps businesses: 

  • Automate reconciliation and cash application 
  • Shorten Days Sales Outstanding (DSO) 
  • Simplify complex billing cycles and credit terms 
  • Gain unified reporting across sales channels 

The impact is tangible: According to Gartner, automation can save finance teams up to 25,000 hours of avoidable rework annually, translating to potential savings of nearly $878,000 for a 40-person team.

The Omnichannel Advantage 

Today’s buyers don’t think in channels. They expect to start a transaction on one device and finish it on another without re-entering details or losing their history. 

Embedded payments make that possible—enabling unified pricing, stored payment methods, and loyalty programs that follow customers wherever they shop, whether online, in-app, or in-store. The result is a consistent, loyalty-building experience across every touchpoint.

Smarter Insights, Stronger Decisions 

Every transaction generates data, but without embedded payments that information is often fragmented and underutilized. 

By connecting payment activity with order and customer data, embedded payments help businesses: 

  • Spot high-value customer segments 
  • Reduce chargebacks and failed transactions 
  • Forecast cash flow with confidence 
  • Optimize pricing, bundles, and promotions 

These insights translate into smarter decisions that strengthen both operations and growth strategies.

Built-In Security and Compliance 

Managing PCI DSS compliance, tokenization, and fraud prevention in-house is both expensive and risky. 

Embedded payments handle that responsibility at the infrastructure level—protecting sensitive data while reducing the operational burden on your team. Businesses can focus on growth, not audits, knowing their payment systems are secure and compliant.

Don’t Let Checkout Hold You Back 

Customer expectations are rising fast. Subscription commerce, digital wallets, and omnichannel journeys are no longer “nice to have”—they’re the new standard. Businesses that modernize their payment strategy today will build the foundation for loyalty, efficiency, and growth tomorrow. 

At Fortis, we partner with software platforms, partners, and mid-market businesses to make payments not just seamless—but strategic. 

Ready to turn your checkout into a competitive advantage? Contact Fortis to learn how embedded payments can transform your business. 

Fortis Expands B2B Payment Leadership with Serve First Acquisition

Posted on by Alex M

PLANO, TX– July 29, 2025– Fortis, the embedded payment technology leader for software platforms and scaling businesses, today announced its acquisition of Serve First Solutions—a premier B2B payment processor—to expand its capabilities, deepen vertical expertise, and accelerate growth in strategic markets.

This acquisition is another strategic step forward in Fortis’ mission to be a transformative partner for software platforms serving businesses with multichannel payment workflows. By integrating Serve First’s deep B2B expertise and service model with Fortis’ proprietary technology and existing ERP capabilities, the combined organization is uniquely positioned to optimize and operationalize payment technology for dynamic business ecosystems. This move strengthens Fortis’ market position and further accelerates penetration into key verticals—such as wholesale, distribution, and manufacturing—where scalable, seamless payment solutions are critical to driving growth and speeding receivables.

“By combining our technology with a world class distribution and service model, we’re not just processing payments—we’re helping our clients unlock new revenue and accelerate cash flow,” said Greg Cohen, Chief Executive Officer of Fortis. “Serve First brings deep expertise in B2B payments, and together we’ll deliver even more value to customers through integrated solutions built for scale.”

Integrating Serve First into the Fortis organization enhances the company’s ability to empower software platforms and their business clients with advanced tools, streamlined operations, and expanded support for business-critical transactions.

“Joining Fortis allows Serve First to bring our expertise to a broader market of software platforms” said Matthew Greco, Chief Revenue Officer of Serve First Solutions. “Together, we’ll deliver powerful, integrated solutions with the service excellence customers depend on.”

### 

About Fortis 

Fortis is the leader in embedded payments for software providers and ERP systems, processing billions annually through its proprietary technology. The company’s mission is to forge holistic commerce experiences that seamlessly integrate within software workflows—transforming payment processing from cost center to strategic advantage. With expertise in software platforms, Fortis moves commerce closer to invisible by strengthening the payments capabilities of software partners, guiding businesses to reach uncharted growth. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Fortis is redefining the $100 trillion B2B payments landscape. Learn more at www.fortispay.com. 

Media Contact 
pr@fortispay.com 

5 AR Tactics to Accelerate Growth with Automation

Posted on by Alex M

Accounts receivable (AR) automation is no longer just a finance tool—it’s a growth engine. With increasing pressure to enhance efficiency and improve cash flow, businesses of all sizes are turning to automation to streamline processes, reduce human error, and accelerate collections. 

According to the 2025 Amex Trendex, 91% of U.S. business decision-makers agree that secure and seamless payment experiences drive growth. Yet, only 17% of companies have fully automated their AR systems, despite well-documented benefits like improved cash flow visibility and reduced error rates.

Let’s explore five types of AR automation that are helping modern businesses stay competitive. 

5 High-Impact AR Automation Strategies

1. Invoicing Automation  

Manually sending, processing and following up on invoices takes a significant amount of time for accounting departments. A 2024 report by Bottomline Technologies found that organizations implementing invoice automation achieved 82% faster invoice processing times—reducing the average from 17.4 days down to just 3.1 days to process a single invoice.

Automation tools can generate invoices based on triggers, route them through approval workflows, and deliver them digitally via email or a portal. This significantly cuts cycle time and removes friction—ultimately reducing days sales outstanding (DSO) and accelerating cash conversion. 

2. Payment Processing Automation  

Slow, outdated payment options can frustrate customers and delay collections. Today’s automation tools remove that friction by making it easy for customers to pay how—and when—they prefer. Modern payment portals allow users to view and settle invoices in one place, with flexible options like credit cards, ACH transfers, and digital wallets. This user-first approach leads to faster payments and a better customer experience. 

Automation goes beyond just collecting the initial payment. One of the most impactful features is automatic follow-up—sending smart reminders for overdue invoices so your team doesn’t have to. This reduces manual tasks, cuts down on errors, and ensures nothing slips through the cracks. In fact, a 2025 blog post by PYMNTS cited 77% of CFOs say AR automation improves invoice tracking speed and accuracy.

3.  Cash Application Automation 

Cash Application, the process of matching incoming payments to outstanding invoices, is a slow and mistake-prone process when done manually. A 2025 PYMNTS study even estimates that manual AR practices have cost mid-market firms an average of $19 million annually, largely due to slow reconciliation and delayed posting. 

Automation uses intelligent matching logic—based on invoice number, amount, and date—to reconcile transactions instantly and flag exceptions for review. This cuts down on mismatches, eliminates posting delays, and provides real-time clarity on outstanding receivables.

4. Credit and Collections Automation 

Manually running credit for your customers is no longer an option when scaling. As customer bases grow, finance teams need tools that can manage risk dynamically and prioritize collection efforts efficiently. Automation platforms can assess customer creditworthiness, rank delinquent accounts, schedule follow-up based on overdue days, and assign escalation paths.  

By focusing resources on accounts that require immediate attention, AR teams can work more effectively and increase collection rates. As a result, businesses reduce DSO, improve cash predictability, and maintain healthier customer relationships without relying on ad-hoc or manual follow-ups.

5. Reporting & Analytics Automation 

Spreadsheets can only take you so far. As businesses grow, real-time visibility into accounts receivable becomes critical. According to a 2025 PYMNTS study, fully automated AR systems enable companies to reduce collection times by 67% and improve forecasting through real-time insights. 

These automation tools help finance teams spot issues early, like consistently late payers or rising delinquency trends, and respond with data-driven strategies. With automation, reporting becomes proactive instead of reactive—enabling smarter decisions, faster forecasting, and greater confidence in cash flow management.

Turning AR into a Strategic Asset 

Automation isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s about converting your AR function from an operational burden into a growth engine. With manual AR still dominating in 83% of firms and delinquency rates hitting ~30% based on PYMNTS Intelligence research, it’s clear: modern AR automation is no longer optional—it’s imperative.

new year's resolution for your business in 2018

How Fortis Powers Intelligent AR 

Fortis helps transform AR from a manual burden into a streamlined, strategic advantage. With our platform, businesses can eliminate inefficiencies and gain greater visibility into the entire receivables process—all without relying on external tools or fragmented systems. 

Key features include: 

  • No external integrations—access all of your data in one place 
  • Reduced risk by eliminating manual data entry 
  • Complete AR visibility through NetSuite’s native dashboard integration 
  • Automated invoicing and follow-up to drive faster payments and improved cash flow 

Whether you’re just beginning to automate or scaling a high-volume AR process, Fortis equips your finance team with tools that simplify operations and accelerate growth. Let us show you how payments can become a strategic asset in 2025 and beyond with our AR automation features. nd discover how Fortis can take your eCommerce business to the next level. 

Unlocking Growth: How Integrated Payment Plugins Simplify eCommerce Operations

Posted on by Alex M

For eCommerce merchants, the future is bright as 85% of global consumers shop online—but scaling your eCommerce business, regardless of industry, offers new challenges. Juggling revenue, efficiency, and cost-reduction requires the right infrastructure. And that includes your payments system.  

Over the past two decades, online payments have changed dramatically. From evolving technology to new regulations and security considerations, merchants must carefully consider payment partners. All too often, it appears easier to stick with legacy systems. This approach causes businesses to leave serious money on the table—and limits the potential for growth. 

In this article, we’ll cover some of the challenges related to scaling your eCommerce business and how integrated plugins can help you overcome these roadblocks and boost your business.

How Your Payment System Affects Revenue Growth 

Your revenue can be linked directly to your payment system. The easiest example of this link is cart abandonment, which averages at 70.19%. Common reasons for cart abandonment are high extra costs (shipping, fees, etc), not trusting the website with credit card information, being forced to create an account, and a complicated checkout process. 

We can see that on a basic level it’s difficult to scale your business without a streamlined payment experience. Too much friction encourages consumers to drop off and seek out another merchant. 

But cart abandonment isn’t the only challenge. There are many accounting issues, too, that stem from a poorly implemented payment system. 

Consider manual reconciliation for payments and purchase orders. Without an automated solution, accounting professionals must review and match these items by hand, which wastes time, exposes the process to errors, and can create other problems, such as duplicates or replicated effort.  

But even with a payment solution, there can be issues. Outdated technology or payment systems with little support can become a security risk—putting your business and your customers at risk. Older or smaller systems also cannot easily adapt to changes in payment infrastructure.  

Finally, legacy payment systems also lack payment processing fee optimization. As a result, you are paying more for less.  

But you can use payments to foster healthy cash flow. And it all starts with integrated plugin solutions.

First: What Are eCommerce Plugins?  

Your eCommerce plugin is the surface payment system. Most merchants use one of the top three plugins: 

  • WooCommerce is one of the most popular plugins, powering 31% of the top one million eCommerce WordPress based sites worldwide. Many consumers consider this option perfect for balancing affordability with customization. This solution is free, although there are many paid plugins.
  • Adobe Commerce and Magento Opensource offers an integrated solution with other Adobe products. While it serves both B2C and B2B industries, Adobe Commerce offers a self-service B2B portal functionality, as well as both cloud and cloud-as-a-service options. Pricing for this option is customized. 
  • BigCommerce also offers B2C and B2B commerce options, shop localization, and a suite of eCommerce features. Pricing plans and custom plans are available depending on revenue.

These major eCommerce plugins have their own set of payment integrations that optimize their features. Integrated or embedded payment plugins available from Fortis, streamline these systems and offer an additional layer of customization for merchants.  

5 Benefits of Integrated Plugins 

Embedded payment plugins improve the functionality of your underlying eCommerce platform, whether it’s WooCommerce, BigCommerce, or Adobe Commerce. For example, the right integrated plugin can help with: 

  1. Frictionless Transactions: These solutions reduce cart abandonment by streamlining and simplifying the checkout process. 
  2. Lower Processing Costs: Optimized payment solutions help merchants reduce payment processing fees, and depending on the state, introduce convenience fees and similar charges to offset costs. These savings can make a significant difference as you grow your business and make more sales. 
  3. Seamless ERP and POS Integration: An integrated plugin can automate reconciliation. This both accelerates financial reporting and makes it more accurate. All without extra effort from your team, making it easier to scale. 
  4. Scalability: A best-in-class solution will include several features such as automation, industry customization, and simplified processes to make your payments strategy scalable.
  5. Enhanced Security and Compliance: Furthermore, a sound integrated plugin will provide PCI-compliant transactions with robust fraud protection, which boosts customer trust and secures credit card data.

A Payment System That Works for You 

Your payment system can either be just another expense, a source of lost business —or a revenue driver. The right integrated payment solution provides eCommerce businesses with the ability to scale—without sacrificing customization or exacting more time from the accounting team. Automation, enhanced reporting, ironclad security, and lower processing costs make it possible to not only reduce costs but identify and drive sales.  

But what is the right partner for your business? 

The payment system with all these features, plus an award-winning API and extensive customer support, should be in the running. 

As a leader in the payment space, Fortis has provided eCommerce businesses across industries with the payment system they need to grow. Its straightforward integration and available plugins  enables businesses to jumpstart their payment strategy. From accepting multiple payment methods to reconciliation automation, ERP integrations, secure transactions, and an omnichannel payment experience—Fortis has it all. 

Book a demo with our team of payment professionals today and discover how Fortis can take your eCommerce business to the next level. 

Fortis Adds Strategic C-Suite Leaders to Accelerate Embedded Payments Growth

Posted on by Alex M

PLANO, Texas, April 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fortis, the payment technology leader for software platforms and scaling businesses, today announced the strategic appointment of two industry veterans to its executive leadership team: Brad Bialas as Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) and Kimling Lam as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). These key appointments position Fortis for its next phase of aggressive growth across the software and ERP ecosystem.

“Brad and Kimling represent the caliber of leadership Fortis needs as we scale to meet increasing demand for our embedded commerce offerings,” said Greg Cohen, CEO of Fortis. “Their complementary expertise in commercial strategy and brand development will be instrumental as we deepen our partnerships, expand market presence, and deliver unprecedented value to software platforms and their business customers in the rapidly evolving market.”

Brad Bialas brings over 24 years of fintech and payments leadership experience to his role as CCO. With an impressive track record of building high-performance teams and driving revenue growth at companies including Moov, Xformative, SwervePay, and BluePay, Bialas has consistently delivered transformative results through strategic partnerships and channel development. At Fortis, he will spearhead commercial strategy, forge key industry alliances, and accelerate revenue across multiple channels.

“The embedded payments market is at a pivotal inflection point, and Fortis uniquely combines technical innovation with genuine partner-centricity,” said Bialas. “I’m energized to scale an organization that has mastered the rare trifecta of cutting-edge technology, clear strategic vision, and a thriving ecosystem that’s fundamentally changing how software platforms deliver value.”

As CMO, Kimling Lam will lead Fortis’ marketing organization with a focus on elevating brand presence, enhancing the partner experience, and driving demand generation. Lam’s extensive background in go-to-market strategy and digital transformation, gained through senior marketing leadership roles at global payment leaders Adyen, Checkout.com, Worldpay and FIS, equips her to significantly amplify Fortis’ market impact.

“By aligning our commercial and marketing strategies, we’re elevating embedded payments from technical integration to business transformation,” said Lam. “Our partners need more than solutions—they need narratives that showcase how our innovation directly drives their growth and monetization opportunities.”

Together, Bialas and Lam bring four decades of combined expertise that aligns perfectly with Fortis’ vision to redefine commerce experiences through seamless payment integration.

These strategic appointments come amid continued momentum for Fortis, backed by investments from Audax Group and Lovell Minnick Partners LLC, and an expanding ecosystem of ERP and software partnerships. The company continues to recruit top talent across departments as it scales operations to meet market demand.

To learn more about Fortis career opportunities, visit fortispay.com/careers.

About Fortis

Fortis is the leader in embedded payments for software providers and ERP systems, processing billions annually through its proprietary technology. The company’s mission is to forge holistic commerce experiences that seamlessly integrate within software workflows—transforming payment processing from cost center to strategic advantage. With expertise in software platforms, Fortis moves commerce closer to invisible by strengthening the payments capabilities of software partners, guiding businesses to reach uncharted growth. Headquartered in Plano, Texas, Fortis is redefining the $100 trillion B2B payments landscape. Learn more at www.fortispay.com.

Media Contact
pr@fortispay.com