Desktop accounting systems have long been the forerunner in helping businesses manage their accounts. They are fantastic because they are able to store the data on your PC and they don't require internet access to use them. However, they certainly do have their limitations. For instance, storing the data takes up valuable memory on the PC, the software needs to be installed and you are only able to access the data from the particular PC the software has been installed on. To add to this, they generally charge a flat fee, an upfront cost which, if you're a small business just starting out or a medium business with tight cash flow, paying everything upfront can put a serious dent in your budget. So what about cloud-based accounting?
Cloud-based accounting has been around for quite a while now, but even still, the idea of taking our data to the cloud can be terrifying for some. However, with the economic climate as it is and SME's (Small & Medium Enterprise) looking for new ways to stream-line their systems, there's actually never been a better time to consider how moving to a cloud-based accounts software can optimise and grow your business.
Here are a few reasons to consider making the change:
Decreased IT & Hardware costs: You'll be able to significantly reduce these when you host your Accounting software off-premise with a cloud hosting provider. How? They take over the maintenance, updates & upgrades - more than likely these costs are bundled into your service - so you don't need to worry about it.
Remote access: In a traditional setting, Desktop accounting software is typically installed onto a desktop PC or laptop that stays at the office - this means the ease of remote access is severely limited. Hosting your software in the cloud means remote access from anywhere using any device AND you can use the software just as you normally would from your computer in the office.
No more manual Back-ups: YOU will never have to back up your data file again, because it's all done automatically. Just think of the time you'll save not messing around with actual back-ups! What's more, if you decide you'd like to keep a copy of the data files, you can download them from the cloud accounts software and, should you choose, stick it on a USB.
Easy, secure sharing: You can share the data with as many others as your heart desires, whether it's your accountant, your bookkeeper, your business coach or even your bank manager. No more is it necessary to email selected reports or the data file or - even less convenient - backing up the file to a USB stick and delivering or sending it to whoever needs the data.
If you're using a desktop accounting software, or are not using any software to keep track of your accounts, contact Middleton PA Services. We use QuickBooks Online Accountant, a cloud-based software that enables you to do all of the above and much, much more. We can help you streamline your business by setting up QuickBooks online and linking it to our own QuickBooks online account, cutting out the time in between, meaning you can spend your new found freedom, growing your business. What's more, purchasing your QuickBooks online subscription through Middleton PA Services, means you save 40% for the life of the subscription - one low price per month instead of a flat fee per year. Should you change your mind, you can cancel at any time, no hidden fees.
Get in touch to find out which subscription would suit your business needs perfectly.
