So what is this thing called the cloud?

Using internet banking is a good example. Every time you access your banking and account data, you’re using the cloud. The cloud is a platform to make data and software accessible online anytime, anywhere, from any device with an internet connection. Your hard drive is no longer the central hub freeing up valuable storage and memory space. This means no more time wasted on back-ups. Cloud software can save your business time and money.

The pitfalls associated with traditional accounting software

• It only works on one computer, which means the only one person has user access. Adding extra users costs extra. Key people can’t access financial and customer details.

• It’s costly, time consuming and complicated to keep backups. Data kept on a USB drive or external hard drive is not secure or reliable.

• The software and the data in the system aren’t up to date. It’s expensive to upgrade the software.

• Customer support is expensive and slow. Minimal training is provided.

• Traditional small business accounting software that’s not available via the cloud can be tedious and it can suck up far too much of your time and effort. This doesn’t add value and takes the fun out of being in business.

Cloud accounting is becoming more and more popular, so what are the benefits?

Access to accounting information anywhere at any time!

Accounting software shouldn’t be a chore to use. No matter where you are, you can access your accounting information on any device, whether it’s a smart phone, iPad, PC or laptop. This means you can stay on top of your financials from anywhere in the world as long as you have internet access. It allows bookkeepers and accountants to work with ‘live’ data which is more productive.

See all your bank account and credit card balances in one place!

This eliminates the need to be logging into separate internet banking account to check your finances. Automated bank feeds ensure your bank accounts are always up to date.

Cost efficiency!

Cloud accounting is a cost effective solution for any business, big or small. You don’t need to buy hardware or accounting software. This means no more timely software updates and back-ups. Version upgrades, maintenance and system administration costs are now no longer issues.

Increased productivity!

Cloud accounting allows businesses to be more reactive and its ease of use also means it frees-up time.

It’s more secure!

How many times have you ‘forgotten’ to back up your accounting system? Cloud computing offers automatic data back-up so you don’t need to worry about losing your information. All your files can be conveniently stored securely in one place. No more digging through paperwork for receipts, invoices, etc. They will always be available no matter where you are. Online accounting means small business owners stay connected to their data and their accountants. The software can integrate with a whole ecosystem of add-ons. It’s cost-effective and easy to use.

The Perfect match!

You can use cloud-based software anywhere in the world, from any device as long as you have an internet connection. Online accounting means small business owners stay connected to their data and their accountants. The software can integrate with a whole ecosystem of add-ons. It’s cost effective and easy to use. In the cloud, there’s no need to install and run applications over a desktop computer.

Work Smarter!

The beauty of this software is the flexibility it gives you to run your business from work, home, or on the go. You can be confident that you have an up-to-date picture of how your business is doing, no matter where you are. Software updates can be developed and delivered faster and more easily in the cloud. This means you don’t need to worry about installing the latest version and you’ll get access to new features instantly. With cloud accounting software, you have the option to run your business remotely, from anywhere in the world. And when data is fluid and accessible, the possibilities are endless. If you want your business to work smarter and faster, cloud accounting software is a wise investment. Working in the cloud will give you a better overview of your finances, and improve collaboration with your team.