So, spend some time finding a program that meets your needs and stays within your budget. The old computer in your back office isn’t nearly as nimble as the abundance of cloud-based accounting software on the market today. Most importantly, if your business is growing, you need software that’s scalable, flexible and ready for your business of tomorrow.
Guaranteed access to the latest in accounting software.What is cloud-based software going to do for your business? Well, according to IBM, a whole lot: Program Integrationĭo you have other programs, such as customer relationship management apps or e-commerce sales reports, that might need to be integrated into your accounting system? Some accounting programs can perform some reporting, such as reports by department, subsidiary or location.īut if you need more detailed reports, such as the status of accounts receivable or a schedule of accounts payable, or if you already have other accounting modules, make sure these can be integrated with your new cloud-based software program. How many people should you grant access to this important data? Consider the individuals on staff who might need access, like your bookkeeper, office manager, any department heads and your external accountant (if you have one). Although some vendors will allow unlimited users, others will charge for each seat. Make note if any options require add-ons or an additional cost.Ĭloud-based accounting software offers “seats” or individual log-in accounts that allow other users access to your data. While reviewing options, make a list of the features you know you need from your accounting system and which vendor offers them at a monthly rate you can manage. A plumbing contractor might need the ability to quickly issue invoices complete with labor costs and materials.A retailer might need to keep up with sales of each item, inventory levels, and their payroll.A general contractor might need the ability to track time and materials for each project separately.You can start with the basic plan and add the accounting modules you need for your particular business. That’s another great feature of cloud-based software - it’s flexible and customizable. It’s likely that no one plan will meet all your requirements, so you may have to purchase add-ons. Look at each plan’s features to find the one that best fits your needs. Most vendors have several plans, starting with a basic plan at the lowest cost (and fewest features). So how do you choose the right program for your business? What to Consider When Selecting Cloud-Based Accounting Software CustomizationĬloud-based software is typically billed on a monthly basis. Many cloud-based accounting software programs are on the market, and each one has its advantages and disadvantages. Cloud-based accounting software is similar. You can access any document or image you store in your Dropbox folders on any device with an internet connection (as long as you verify your identity). One example of cloud-based software you’ve probably heard of is Dropbox. That means your accounting data is no longer stuck in your office - it’s wherever you are. With cloud-based software, your data is stored in the cloud rather than on a specific physical device or hard drive. It’s far more affordable and flexible in meeting the needs of today’s small business owners. And this method has probably worked for you - but it has its limitations.Ĭloud-based accounting software represents the new frontier. Ever since, all the accounting data for your business has likely been stored in that program, on that hard drive, in that computer in your office. When you started your business, you probably downloaded an accounting software program to the computer in your office.