Whilst we wouldn’t advocate switching between different cloud accounting software every other week, if what you have in place currently isn’t working for you, or it’s no longer delivering against what your business needs, then it could be time reconsider.
When choosing an accounting software, whether for the first time or to replace an existing platform, there are a few key things that you should think about.
It is important to understand there is not one system, or provider, that suits or caters to every business, and you need to choose the one that’s the best fit for you.
Adaptability
If you’ve found that your business has outgrown the system you are currently using, consider whether any alternatives you’ve identified are flexible, or whether they could pose the same problem.
Moving from one cloud accounting software to another can be time-consuming, so it is worth putting in the effort to settle on a system that will offer you longevity.
It’s also worth considering whether or not the software integrates with other tools or systems that you use within your business – and so could enable you to reduce manual data entry even further.
For example, if you mainly take payments via PayPal, it would be beneficial to use an accounting software that can automatically import the transactions from PayPal.
Timing
Consider whether the timing of any change is suitable, or if accelerating/delaying a switch would help you to avoid unnecessary challenges.
It is normally recommended that, if you are changing over to a new system, that this is done at the end of your financial year.
Whenever you opt to switch, ensure you have ample time to complete the transition. Preparation is key, and during a busy period you may not have enough time to properly invest in setting up and learning how to use a new software.
Support and training
Think about what support you have available before, during and after any change you make. If you are to make the most of, and properly benefit from, transitioning to a new software, it is essential that you have access to appropriate support and training. We offer training and support for the majority of the market leading software, as well as having contacts with account managers in the industry to help you get the support you need.
User roles and access
To ensure that staff can only access areas of the system that they need to complete their duties, it is important to understand the customisation options available to you in any cloud accounting software.
For example, if you have staff who only enter sales and purchase invoices, you may want to restrict their access, so be careful to ensure the software you choose can cater to your specific requirements.
How can George Hay help?
Our cloud accounting experts in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire are here to help you identify the right software for your business, to explore new integrations that could improve your processes and productivity, and to ensure you are in a position to get the most out of the systems you have in place with as much support and training as you require.
To talk to one of our online bookkeeping and accounting advisers, contact us today.
