Cloud based accounting solutions

Online accounting

Cloud based accounting solutions Xero

Type in ‘online accounting software’ into Google and the traditional accounting software names such as Sage and Quickbooks will not appear until the second page. These companies have been late entrants into a market that is changing the way accounting is being done by small and medium sized businesses.

The benefits of bookkeeping using the web are many. Chief amongst them is collaboration. Using an online system means that other authorised users can enter and view information at the same time.

The most obvious example is that, as your accountants, we can view your information during the year rather than waiting until you hand us the backup file subsequent to the year end. This provides a significant advantage because it enables us to provide tax planning advice and resolve problems at an earlier stage.

Where we provide bookkeeping services on your behalf, you are able to view information at any time without waiting to receive reports from us at the end of the month. We can also share the bookkeeping function with you and thereby ensure that you are receiving accurate financial information throughout the year, something that is key to running a successful business.

Other benefits include:

  • Ease of use – the interface of most online systems not only looks good but also makes the software easier to use than many traditional PC-based software packages. Furthermore you do not have to worry about installing software updates. The system you work with is always the latest available system including all updates.
  • Flexibility – because the software is operated over the web it makes no difference whether your business uses PCs or Macs. Increasingly it is possible to view and enter information on your mobile phone or iPad. Wherever you have internet access, you have access to your business accounts.
  • Price - online accounting systems are priced on a subscription model. From around £15 per month you can have the use of software which is easily the match of products such as Sage and Quickbooks. The price includes support and updates.
  • Integration – online systems offer seamless (and free) integration with other online software such as email marketing, CRM, payroll and project management software.
  • Data security – online systems use major data centres to store your data and incorporate the same levels of security as your online banking. No longer do you need to worry about backing up your data or carrying the laptop to and from home.

Online software is not the answer for every business but before you buy the latest upgrade from Sage just take a moment to give us a call and discuss the possibility of moving to the web. Currently we are delighted to be able to offer Xero (www.xero.com) to our clients.

For more information and to arrange an initial consultation please contact:

ICAEW IGAL The Association of Practising Accountants

Xero - Gold Partners Quickbooks Certified ProAdvisors