Category: Cloud Hosting

CategoriesAccounting Software HostingSage Hosting

All About Sage Software

Posted on October 25, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

When it comes to managing a business – big or small, in its entirety, you cannot leave the Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software aside. You want to ensure that every aspect of your business runs smoothly, whether it is accounting, payroll, or payment systems. Sage software is a trusted comprehensive software meant to support business management and resource planning needs. It is quite popular as one of the preeminent accounting software in the world. 

 

In this blog post, we will answer all your questions about Sage software products.

 

What is Sage Software?

 

Sage software is a multi-faceted software that helps businesses in accounting, HR management, payroll, and payments needs. The name, Sage, refers to the leading ERP software company founded in the North East of England.

 

Currently, Sage software is used by around six million businesses across the globe and is also the third-largest ERP software supplier in the world. Its critical solutions fall into the following four categories:

 

  • Accounting
  • Payments
  • Payroll
  • Human resource management

 

What does Sage software do for accounting businesses?

 

Initially, Sage software was focused on helping accountants grow their practice and better service all their clients. Over the years, their product range has expanded to cover a wide range of business needs. It is the market leader for integrated payroll, accounting, and payment systems. 

 

Each of the Sage software products differs slightly as per the country/region they are available. This is because they are specifically designed as per each region’s rules and regulations related to accounting, taxation, and payroll legislation. Example – Sage One is a worldwide software product, while Sage 50c Accounts is meant for businesses in the UK.

 

History of Sage Software – How It Started

 

David Goldman founded Sage in 1981 as a startup business. The basic idea was to automate the print estimating and accounting process with the help of software. With the growing popularity of desktop PCs back in those days, the Sage software products range grew in popularity and is now a global market leader. 

 

The features of Sage software have improved over the years with constant innovation, making them suitable for millions of users across the UK, Ireland, North America, Mainland Europe, South Africa, Asia, and Australia.

 

Features of Sage Software

 

Although different versions of Sage software have unique features, given below are their top five features in general:

 

  • Cash flow management using automated financial reports
  • Sales optimization using reports to create quotes and proposals
  • Payment invoicing to minimize the risk of missed or late payments
  • Payroll management to track profits, report taxes, and pay the employees
  • Inventory management with information about real-time stock data

 

Reasons to Use Sage Accounting Software for Your Business

 

Some of the benefits of using Sage accounting software to manage your business are:

 

  • Easy to print and send invoices
  • Ease of making payments
  • Auto-updating of customer/supplier records
  • Automatic altering of stocks
  • Quick calculation of payroll
  • Summarized customer accounts with overdue balances
  • Easy to analyze sales with insightful reports
  • VAT returns
  • Time-savings
  • Lesser risk of human errors
  • Cost-effective ERP solution

 

Difference Between Sage Software and QuickBooks

 

As a business accounting software, both Sage and QuickBooks are solid options. However, the final selection should be based on your business-specific needs. For many businesses, the simplicity, customer support options, and pricing make Sage software better than its alternatives. However, for others, QuickBooks is a better choice as it supports a wide range of businesses. 

 

What matters most is the fulfillment of your needs using this software. This is possible when you dig deeper into the features and benefits of the software and understand its utility.

 

Different Versions of Sage Software Products

 

Sage software is classified into various versions based on several unique parameters, as given below:

 

  • Depending on the Business Size

 

For Small Businesses Sage Accounting
Sage 50 cloud Accounting
Sage HR
Sage Timeslips
For Medium Businesses Sage X3
Sage 100 cloud
Sage 300 cloud
Sage Intacct
Sage Fixed Assets
Sage HRMS
Sage CRM
Sage People
For Any-Size Business Sage 100 Contractor
Sage 300 CRE
Sage Intacct Construction

 

  • Depending on Industry

 

  • Manufacturing
  • Construction
  • Chemicals
  • Wholesale distribution
  • Professional services
  • Food and beverage
  • Non profits

 

  • Depending on Business Needs

 

  • ERP
  • Accounting
  • HR
  • Inventory management
  • Business intelligence
  • Supply chain management
  • CRM
  • Payment processing

 

For more information about Sage software products, click here. 

 

Sage Accounting Software Pricing

 

Different versions of Sage software: Accounting Start, Accounting Plus, and Accounting Standard are priced at £12, £30, and £24 per month, respectively. Click here for exact Sage software pricing. 

 

Benefits of Hosting Sage Software on Cloud

 

Sage hosting means hosting or installing Sage software on a cloud server. This is different from the traditional local-hosted environment in which the software is installed on a local computer. While Sage software products offer unmatched benefits to different types of businesses, hosting it on the cloud with the help of a cloud solution provider is more advantageous.

 

  • Enhanced Security

 

When you switch to Sage software hosting, the hired cloud hosting provider takes care of data security with the help of multiple measures. These include data encryption, firewalls, third-party audits, to name a few. In other words, hosting Sage software on the cloud minimizes the risk of data loss.

 

  • Easy Access from Anywhere and Anytime

 

Unlike traditionally installed Sage software, you can access cloud-hosted Sage via the Internet whenever you need. It also allows you and your team to collaborate on a file simultaneously from different locations. This is highly useful for businesses with multiple sites or offices but need centralized access to specific software.

 

  • Easy to Switch to Paperless Environment

 

With Sage hosting, you can maintain a centralized database of business-critical documents, which can easily be shared with your team members or clients. This helps in eliminating time-consuming paperwork and simplifies various work-related tasks.

 

  • Cost Savings

 

The in-house IT maintenance and installation cost can be much higher than hosting business software in a third-party cloud environment. Switching to Sage hosting means money savings as you need not pay for expensive servers, upgrades, and maintenance charges.

 

  • Round-the-clock Support

 

Sage cloud hosting also provides a dedicated support team to resolve your hosting issues. Irrespective of the time, you can reach out to them via chat, call, or email to quickly resolve hosting issues that may arise.

 

Also Read: Using the Best Features of Sage software? You Also Need This.

 

Sage Software FAQs

 

 

  • What is Sage software used for?

 

Although Sage software has features that cater to various business needs, it is mainly helpful for accounting, payroll, and HR management. Therefore, you can select the correct version of this software based on your business needs.

 

 

  • What type of software is Sage?

 

Sage falls into the category of ERP or Enterprise Resource Planning software.

 

 

  • Is Sage an accounting software?

 

Sage is indeed an accounting software used by CPAs and bookkeepers to simplify various accounting tasks. Its other features include inventory management, all-inclusive reporting, payroll, etc.

 

 

  • How many versions of Sage software are there?

 

Sage is available in multiple versions, the selection of which can be based on the business size, industry, and specific business needs. 

 

 

  • Can I host Sage software on the cloud?

 

Sage desktop products can be easily hosted on the cloud with the help of a reliable cloud hosting provider. Besides selecting the correct version of Sage, you need to pick a suitable hosting plan to make the most of cloud hosting benefits. 

 

CategoriesCloud HostingQuickBooks Hosting

QuickBooks Cloud Vs. Desktop: Which One Should You Select?

Posted on October 9, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

QuickBooks plays a unique role in the lives of accounting professionals. Being a premium accounting software, it has been in use in the desktop-hosted environment traditionally. Whether invoicing, expense management, inventory management, or cash flow management, we all know about various features of QuickBooks. However, you might not know about the differences between using QuickBooks on cloud and desktop-hosted QuickBooks. 

 

The tremendous growth in cloud technology has brought about significant changes in the accounting industry. Instead of maintaining an in-house QuickBooks desktop setup, you can host QuickBooks on third-party cloud servers for remote accessibility and cost savings. 

 

QuickBooks Hosting at a Glance

 

QuickBooks hosting, also referred to as hosted QuickBooks or QuickBooks cloud, means installing the desktop version of this application on a cloud server, enabling software access via the web on any device and at any location.

 

If you want to switch to QuickBooks cloud, it is paramount that you understand the differences between traditional QB desktop and QB on the cloud. 

 

7 Differences Between QuickBooks on Cloud Vs. Desktop

 

Desktop-hosted QuickBooks

QuickBooks Cloud
Can only be accessed on the device where it is installed Can be accessed on any device via the Internet and from any location
Lacks advanced security measures and anti-hacking tools Powered with the top-rated security methods to ensure data safety
Involves frequent sharing of QB files between team members Ensure efficient collaboration between team members and simultaneous access to the same data files from different locations
Requires significant time and resources for infrastructural scalability Easy to scale the QuickBooks hosting plan chosen based on evolving business needs
Involves additional expense of regular IT maintenance  The IT maintenance cost to be borne by the cloud hosting provider
Has a greater risk of permanent data loss due to environmental disasters Provides disaster recovery facility to minimize the impact of data loss during disasters
May result in performance issues with multiple add-on integrations Easy to integrate as many QuickBooks add-ons as you need without facing any performance lag


Let’s explain each of these differences to help you make an informed decision.

  • Software Accessibility

 

Hosting QuickBooks on a local computer system does not allow you to work on it when you are not around. However, with QuickBooks cloud, you can access the software anywhere and anytime.

  • Security of Data and Software

 

Conventional desktop systems usually do not have advanced security systems to secure the saved financial data. With QuickBooks hosting, you will benefit from top-quality security measures deployed on the cloud to protect your data. 

 

Also Read: How to Choose the Best QuickBooks Cloud Hosting Provider?

  • Collaboration between Team Members

 

While using a traditional QB desktop, users have to exchange the same files multiple times with each other back and forth for corrections. On the other hand, QB cloud hosting allows multiple authorized users to simultaneously work on the same files, saving time and effort.

  • Scalability

 

Scaling the in-house IT infrastructure up for changing business requirements requires significant investments and resources. But with QuickBooks cloud, you can upgrade the cloud computational resources by selecting a better, higher cloud hosting plan. 

  • On-premise IT Maintenance

 

When you use QuickBooks in a desktop environment, the responsibility to maintain this environment falls on you. When you switch to QuickBooks cloud, this responsibility gets transferred to the hired cloud solution provider. Their team will take care of the IT maintenance needed to deliver seamless QB access. 

  • Disaster recovery

 

The risk of facing irreversible data loss during an environmental disaster is higher with traditional QB desktops. However, a renowned QB hosting provider can help you back up the data during unforeseen situations to minimize their adverse impact.

  •  Integration of Add-ons

 

Your QB desktop setup may only support integrating a limited number of add-ons and face performance lag on adding more add-ons than it can support. QuickBooks cloud, which is hosted on an HPC server, is a good alternative and allows you to integrate as many add-ons as needed. 

 

In the comparison of QuickBooks Cloud Vs. desktop, one can easily see the apparent winner. With QuickBooks cloud, you will enjoy enhanced team collaboration, higher uptime, and remote software access. 

 

Want to switch to QuickBooks hosting today? Give us a call at – 1-855-583-7486. 

CategoriesCloud HostingTax Software Hosting

Cloud FAQs: Should You Switch to UltraTax Virtual Office?

Posted on October 7, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

UltraTax is a powerful tax software used by accountants and tax preparers. The best part about using this feature-rich software is that it can help you automate the tax preparation process related to your business. In addition, you get access to the full line of federal, local, and state tax programs, such as 1120 corporate, 1040 individual, and many others. It also integrates seamlessly with other solutions offered by Thomson Reuters – its parent company. All its features and benefits had again led to a five-star rating of UltraTax by CPA Practice Advisor in 2020. 

 

While everything is going well and tax professionals are happy with using UltraTax CS software, what’s the buzz about switching from UltraTax CS to UltraTax Virtual Office? Have you heard about making the cloud transition to UltraTax Virtual Office?

 

Let’s get into the details to help you understand the right way to use this software. 

 

What is Virtual Office CS?

 

Virtual Office CS is a cloud-based environment provided by Thomson Reuters to their clients to do the accounting and tax-related work from anywhere. Virtual Office CS can provide you with:

 

  • Remote access to CS Professional Suite, Microsoft Exchange, and Microsoft Office software
  • Round-the-clock web access to the software and data
  • Reduced IT burden
  • Improved business continuance
  • Regular maintenance and data backups
  • Ease of working from home

 

Let’s dig deeper.

 

Difference between UltraTax CS and Virtual Office CS

UltraTax CS Virtual Office CS
Flexibility multi-monitor setup Remote access to CS Professional  Suite from client locations, home, or anywhere else
Can only be used when the user is in a local-hosted setup unless hosted on a cloud server Ease of flexible work time for your employees or teammates 
Manual data backups required Automatic backups to save your latest data in case of hardware damage
Additional maintenance costs involved Reduced cost related to the maintenance of software, hardware, and server installed in-house
Basic – UltraTax CS Express 100 priced at $2,500 per year* Custom pricing available

 

Disclaimer: The information used in the comparison table above has been taken from the Thomson Reuters website.

 

How is Virtual Office CS Different from UltraTax CS Hosting?

 

This is a common question that many tax professionals and CPAs ask while switching to a cloud-hosted environment. You should know the difference between Virtual Office CS and hosting your UltraTax CS software on the cloud to make an informed decision.

 

On the one hand, Virtual Office CS provides you with the cloud benefits for the entire CS Professional Suite, including UltraTax CS. You get this facility directly from the software’s maker – Thomson Reuters, which does not require collaboration with a third-party cloud service provider. While using Virtual Office CS, you need not buy the license of UltraTax CS separately. 

 

On the other hand, UltraTax hosting is a joint effort between you (a software user or buyer) and a cloud solution provider. You buy an UltraTax CS software license to get it installed on your computer system. But instead, you hire a cloud service provider to host the software on a dedicated server. In simple terms, hiring a cloud hosting provider to host UltraTax CS on the cloud will cost you an additional amount above the software license purchase.

 

Which One to Choose – UltraTax CS Hosting or Virtual Office CS?

 

There is no one-size-fits-all answer possible for this question. Different tax professionals have different needs based on which they select a software version – local-hosted or cloud-hosted. Although you may see a thin line differentiating Virtual Office CS from UltraTax CS hosting, it is essential to know these differences before deciding. 

 

The decision is all yours!

 

Also Read: A Complete Guide to UltraTax CS Software

 

CategoriesCloud Hosting

Primary Questions You Should Ask About OfficeTools Hosting Before Switching to It

Posted on October 5, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

OfficeTools is an advanced software for accounting practice management. Many CPAs go by its name and think of it as another tool to help simplify work-related tasks. However, its use-cases are quite specific towards future-focused firms. If you are a CPA or a small business owner, you can manage several tasks using this software, including team alignment, accounting practice automation, add-integration, to name a few. 

 

It also comes with a product finder using which you can move a step closer to selecting the right OfficeTools products. The best part about working with OfficeTools is that you can install it locally or on the cloud. However, you might not be aware of several aspects of OfficeTools hosting (which means hosting this software on a cloud server). 

 

To make an informed decision about using OfficeTools the right way, you must look for the answers to the following questions:

 

  • Is OfficeTools Cloud different from OfficeTools hosting?

 

There is a thin line that differentiates both these ways to access OfficeTools software. On the one hand, OfficeTools Cloud is one of the two products offered by AbacusNext – the SaaS provider behind OfficeTools. With this version, you can work on the software on the go and manage your business from anywhere.

 

OfficeTools hosting helps you do the same thing – remote software and team collaboration, but via a cloud server provided by a third-party cloud hosting provider. Here, you choose to host your licensed desktop-hosted OfficeTools Workspace on a dedicated cloud server. Although both these ways of using cloud technology sound similar, they are not. Hence, you should dig deeper and understand the critical differences between the two. 

 

  • Why should I switch to OfficeTools hosting?

 

Hosting a licensed OfficeTools software on a cloud server comes with several advantages for your business. These include ease of accessing the software on the go, which is different from its limited access in the local-hosted environment. For example, if the software is installed on a local computer, you can only work on it when you are around that system. With cloud technology, you can access it irrespective of where you are.

 

If multiple teammates are located in different regions at any point in time, they can simultaneously access data files and software when backed with cloud hosting.

 

  • Can I utilize the benefits of cloud-hosted OfficeTools being a solo user?

 

Small businesses run by a single individual require accounting management software, which is where OfficeTools come in handy. With the advancements in cloud technology, it has become a norm for every business. Even if you handle all the business-related tasks yourself, you can still host OfficeTools on the cloud. There is no such predefined condition that you must have a team – small or big, to gain access to the benefits of OfficeTools hosting.

 

At Verito Technologies, we offer hosting plans for Solo users starting at $69 per month. Learn more here.

 

  • How much does it cost to add a new user to my OfficeTools hosting plan?

 

The cost of cloud hosting plans for OfficeTools software may vary depending on the service provider you hire. Although plan customization is possible in most cases, you may not find the exact pricing unless you specify your needs to the cloud solution provider. For instance, you want to add five more users to the basic hosting plan but with 150GB of cloud storage and ease of integrating more than ten applications. Since the cloud computing resources for this specific requirement will differ from what is included in a basic plan, the pricing will vary. 

 

Make sure you assess your needs carefully before you ask for a personalized cloud hosting plan. Here’s a glimpse of the extended pricing of our cloud solutions:

 

  • Additional application charged at $10 per app per month
  • Additional storage is available at the rate of $1 per GB per month
  • Additional user(s) at the rate of $45 per user per month 
  • Additional RAM charged at $20 per GB per month
CategoriesCloud Hosting

What Is OfficeTools Hosting and How Does It Work?

Posted on September 18, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

Managing accounting practice is a tough nut to crack, which is why professionals need advanced software designed for this particular need. You can rely on OfficeTools software for your accounting firm to track time, projects, billing, and more. However, having it installed on a local computer somehow limits its utility because you can only access your files when near the local computer.

 

OfficeTools hosting can make things easier for you by hosting the software on a cloud server. As an authorized user, you can access the server remotely using any device, anywhere. It is a popular way to transition to a cloud-hosted setup, a move that has become even more popular during the pandemic. 

 

What Happens When You Host OfficeTools on the Cloud?

 

OfficeTools hosting means migrating your local-hosted OfficeTools software to a remote cloud server managed by a reliable cloud service provider. The software will no longer be installed on your local computer/laptop but can be accessed on any device via the Internet. 

 

When stored on the cloud, the software and data files are more secure than in a traditional hosting setup. In addition, only authorized users with valid credentials can access them remotely, making it easier for you to ensure data security. You can also allow your team members to collaborate and access the cloud-hosted software simultaneously from different locations with OfficeTools hosting.

 

Common Questions You Might Want to Ask About Hosting OfficeTools on Cloud

 

 

  • Do I have to pay for setting up OfficeTools on a cloud server?

 

The cost largely depends on the cloud service provider you select. In most cases, the cloud hosting provider you hire manages the cloud setup, software, and data migration process at no additional cost. In addition, the team will take care of hosting your application on their cloud environment and provide you with the How-to guides to access it later.

 

The only cost involved in switching to OfficeTools hosting is the hosting plan you select. 

 

At Verito Technologies, we offer multiple plans at competitive prices, which you can upgrade as and when you need. For instance, they provide a Solo plan meant for single users that provides 20 GB of storage. However, you can ask for a customized hosting plan to fit your needs.

 

 

  • How can I ask for hosting support services after switching to the cloud?

 

If you are new to working in a cloud environment, you might face certain challenges while accessing the software or enabling team collaboration. For your questions in dealing with cloud-hosted OfficeTools, you should immediately connect with your cloud service provider. In addition, the model of customer support services – whether phone, email, or chat, may differ from one solution provider to another. 

 

A simple way to ensure that you get the necessary support in difficult times is to carefully choose a cloud hosting service provider. Check for round-the-clock availability of the support team and their turnaround time to resolve any issue. 

 

Recommended Read: 5 Benefits of Switching to Office Tools Hosting

 

 

  • Is the cloud environment capable of keeping OfficeTools data safe?

 

Most cloud providers deploy advanced security methods like spam filters, antivirus, IDPS, and firewalls. These steps ensure the utmost safety of your crucial data. Therefore, unlike the traditional software setup in a local computer, the risk of losing OfficeTools data is lower with cloud hosting. Besides this, you will also benefit from regular backup services provided by your cloud solution provider. 

 

With the right cloud hosting plan for OfficeTools, you can adopt the latest cloud technology trends to ensure consistent growth. Now is the time to switch to the cloud!

 

 

CategoriesSage Hosting

How to Take Full Advantage of Sage Application Hosting For Your Business

Posted on September 3, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

Using Sage software for the accounting needs of your business is one thing while maximizing its benefits is another entirely. This is one reason why many CPAs and accounting firms prefer to host Sage application on the cloud. Selecting a cloud solution provider for Sage hosting can make it easier for you to access this powerful software in many ways. Remote accessibility, data security, and team collaboration are some of the primary benefits of Sage hosting. 

 

However, it is up to you to decide to what extent you want to benefit from using Sage software in a cloud-based environment. You might find most Sage hosting plans to be the same for various use cases. It is your call to understand how you would extract maximum value for money paid for Sage application hosting.

 

Wondering how you can benefit from cloud-hosted Sage application maximally? Let’s dive deeper.

 

Ultimate Tips to Grow Your Business with Sage Hosting

 

 

  • Keep Your Accounting Files Saved on the Cloud

 

Loss of data with the slightest possibility of recovery is one of the most common disadvantages of working in a desktop environment. Once you have hosted Sage on the cloud, it would be better not to leave your accounting files on your local computer. Instead, move them all to your cloud server for enhanced security benefits. 

 

Your cloud service provider will take care of the security measures for Sage software hosted on a cloud server. They take all the necessary steps to keep the environment safe with regular audits, data encryption technologies, and firewalls. Moving your accounting files to the cloud means dual security benefits for your business. 

 

 

  • Upgrade Your Hosting Plan Only When Needed

 

At the start, you might have selected a Sage application hosting based on your everyday business needs. However, the tax season is far away, and you are not in a rush to stress out because of loads of accounting work left to be done. As long as you do not need more cloud resources to improve productivity at work, you can continue with the basic hosting plan. 

 

Upgrade your cloud hosting plan after you realize you need to make the software and data accessible to more users and thus, require higher computing power. With this approach, you can save more money while also getting the most out of your investments in cloud technology.

 

 

  • Set User Controls Over Authorised Cloud Access

 

One of the reasons behind the top-notch security benefits you receive with cloud hosting is its user access control. You can define roles and create user accounts with limited access controls to ensure that only authorized users can access cloud-hosted software and data. 

 

Most business owners ask the hosting provider to create a few users accounts for cloud server access. However, you can take access control into your hands, create new authorized user accounts, and define access permissions to ensure maximum security to your business-related data. 

 

 

  • Go Paperless

 

Making the transition from a traditional paper-based documentation approach is not easy for every accountant. Many CPAs are accustomed to make the entries on physical files and store them in their local database. 

 

If you have already switched to Sage hosting, it is time to understand the importance of going paperless at work. With Sage software on the cloud, you get a centralized database that can cater to and replace various documentation needs. It also helps you eliminate time-consuming paperwork and adopt a paperless culture, which is also good for the environment.

 

Also Read: New to Using Sage Accounting Software? You Might Not Know About These 5 Features

 

 

  • Invite Your Clients to Access Cloud-hosted Files

 

One of the most redundant tasks in an accountant’s life is sharing multiple files with their clients to and fro. Finally, after several rounds of edits and changes, the final version is approved and then taken into use. 

 

A more straightforward way to save time and effort in sharing files with clients is to provide them with access to cloud-hosted accounting files. This way, they can check files quickly and add comments or suggestions on the go without requesting multiple file versions repeatedly.

 

Sage hosting can benefit your business in various ways. However, your knowledge and understanding about putting its benefits into use make a significant difference. 

 

Need help in selecting the most suitable hosting plan for your business? Give us a call at 1-855-583-7486. 

 

CategoriesSage Hosting

What to Consider Before Hosting Sage Application on the Cloud?

Posted on September 2, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

Sage software is amongst the market leaders for payroll and integrated accounting software. Small and medium businesses use Sage software to manage their invoicing, finances, and cash flow needs. Sage has a slew of products to fit different needs. For example, there is Sage Accounting, Sage Payroll, Sage HR for small businesses. On the other hand, medium-sized companies benefit from using Sage Intacct, Sage X3, Sage 200 cloud, and similar versions.

 

As a product, the Sage application has all-inclusive features that your business would need to maintain productivity at work and manage accounting needs. However, using the software in a desktop-hosted environment often creates work-related challenges. It is where the importance of Sage hosting on the cloud is highly felt. 

 

Hosting your Sage application on the cloud will provide undeniable benefits, like remote access, cloud security, data backups, and more. However, you should not make this transition in a frenzy. There are several aspects you must consider before you step forward to choose Sage hosting services. 

 

5 Things to Consider Before Switching to Sage Hosting

 

  • Process of data migration

 

Hiring a cloud service provider is not just about getting a server and then working on the configuration task by yourself. In general, most Sage hosting providers offer a dedicated professional that helps migrate the data and set up a cloud environment for your business needs. So whether you want to host Sage 50, Sage 100 ERP, or Sage 300 ERP on the cloud, you can rest assured you will get a ready-to-use, cloud-hosted Sage application.

 

However, it is crucial to check the details related to the data migration and cloud configuration process. The easier this process is, the earlier you can become familiar with using Sage hosted on a cloud server.

 

  • Supported add-ons

 

Although Sage software can handle various business needs with its features, you can add more value to its capabilities with multiple add-ons. Whether it is Stripe for payments, SalesSeek for CRM, or Payment Evolution for payroll, you can select the right add-ons to support your business and save money. 

 

Integrating add-ons to your Sage application in a desktop environment is different from doing the same in a cloud-hosted setup. Make sure your cloud service provider supports the integration of Sage add-ons. 

 

  • Scalable hosting plans

 

In the accounting industry, CPAs generally have a hectic work schedule during the tax season. As a result, they need more human resources and technological support to get things done faster. So while you can select a Sage hosting plan that fits your current business needs, you should get the flexibility to upgrade or downgrade it as needed.

This way, you can benefit from paying only for the cloud resources you utilize during any specific period. 

 

  • Dedicated cloud server

 

Cloud hosting services are mainly available in two different formats – shared hosting and dedicated cloud server. 

 

As the name suggests, shared hosting plans let you share a set of cloud resources – cloud storage and computing power, with other cloud users. However, this is generally not recommended to businesses due to possible performance issues with shared resources. Instead, you should go for a dedicated server where you can host one or more business applications and enjoy the maximum benefits of cloud technology.

 

Recommended Read: What Is The Difference Between Sage And QuickBooks?

 

  • Data backups

 

A common question people ask while switching to Sage hosting is about data security during unprecedented events. Losing crucial data related to diverse clients can put the entire business of an accounting firm at risk. This is why you must ask about the data backup features that your cloud solution provider offers. For the security of critical data, you can also hire managed backup service providers. 

 

The decision to host Sage applications on the cloud will be highly beneficial for your business, provided you have hired a renowned cloud service provider. Making an informed decision to host accounting software on cloud is much better than deciding things randomly. 

 

Feeling confused about how Sage hosting will help your business grow? Let us help you out. Connect with us today at 1-855-583-7486.

CategoriesCloud Hosting

How to Pick the Right Cloud Hosting Service Provider?

Posted on August 24, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

It has become common for businesses to externalize IT systems. Solo professionals and established firms rely on cloud service providers for various computing needs. Since the evolving cloud market is quite large, making sure you pick the right service provider is critical to follow the path of success. On the one hand, there are market giants offering cloud servers. On the other hand, you can find small niche players offering scalable cloud solutions.

The question is: How will you pick a cloud hosting service provider? 

Making a random choice may only fulfill some short-term goals. However, if you look at the transition to the cloud from a long-term perspective, you must follow a well-defined process to select a cloud hosting service provider that can meet your unique needs.

Here, we have distilled some of the critical factors you can assess the reliability and capability of a cloud solution provider. 

1. Organisational Health and Processes

The overall track record of stability and operational success over the long term determines the service quality of a cloud solution provider. It would be best if you considered the following pointers to get an idea of the firm’s health:

  • Risk management policies

Your cloud hosting provider should have well-defined policies to manage business-related risk. In case of involving third-party service providers for IT support, the company should have a stringent vendor assessment process.

  • Brand reputation

It means checking the presence of a cloud service provider in the market and its clientele. You can learn more about this aspect by reading reviews from clients or asking for recommendations from peers in your industry.

  • Technical know-how

The service provider you hire should understand your needs and expectations to customize the hosting solutions offered. This understanding comes after having significant experience in delivering cloud services.

2. Technical Capabilities

Your cloud hosting provider should have the expertise in deployment, maintenance, and upgrade of the required cloud infrastructure. 

  • Ease of Software Migration

Once you have decided to host your business applications on the cloud, the service provider you hire should have mechanisms to support the migration process. This is extremely important if you are new to working in a cloud-hosted environment.

  • Hosting Plan Change Management

Cloud hosting allows you to switch between different hosting plans based on your business needs. This way, you will only pay for what you use during a specific period. However, depending on the business type, which can be seasonal, you might need to switch between plans more than once a year. Hence, there should be a defined process for the change in the hosting plan whenever required.

  • Scalability Support

Even if you do not have plans to upgrade or downgrade your cloud hosting plan, you must ensure the cloud service provider offers scalability benefits. It has advantages that you may like to explore later.

 

You May Also Like to Read: Everything You Need to Know About Cloud Computing

3. Administration 

  • Resource Monitoring

Ideally, it is expected that a cloud service provider has adequate control over the cloud resources to track and manage the services offered to different clients. This will also help you in understanding how you and your team utilize the benefits of the cloud.

  • Service Level Agreement (SLA)

Having SLAs backing the cloud services help in ensuring that the providers are accountable for the promised service. Any issues with the service quality can then be raised as per the terms defined in the SLA.

  • Billing and Accounting

This aspect of cloud services should be automated and transparent to keep track of the resources in use and the related cost. This will also help you avoid unexpected bills. 

 

To learn more about our best-in-class cloud hosting services, get in touch with us at 1-855-583-7486.

 

CategoriesTax Software Hosting

Prepare For Tax Season 2021 The Right Way with These Crucial Tips

Posted on August 10, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

For businesses, tax season implies paying due taxes and ensuring their companies abide by the prevailing tax laws. But for tax professionals, it refers to the stress of filing tax returns for their clients one after another. If you also prepare and file tax returns of various clients, you would agree to the sameness of the following situation:

 

Many clients send their paperwork in the last few days of the deadline to file tax returns. Unfortunately, you do not have enough staffing to deal with the sudden surge in work, which makes you and your team feel like you are working round the clock. 

 

The busy tax season brings plenty of workloads followed by stress for the accounting and tax professionals. They want to avoid last-minute hassles and thus, look for tips to prepare for tax season. Before we proceed to discuss many such practical tips, let’s have a look at some of the important dates related to the tax season 2021:

 

Date Significance
Jan 15, 2021 It is when the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) Free File was opened and taxpayers could file the return in advance through Free File partners.
Feb 12, 2021 IRS started accepting individual tax returns.
Apr 15, 2021 Deadline for filing 2020 tax returns
Oct 15, 2021 Extended deadline for filing 2020 tax returns

 

Tips to Handle Tax Season 2021 with Ease

  • Speed Up the Process of Collecting Tax Documents

 

Before you even start preparing returns, you need various documents from your clients. The more time they take to make these documents reach you, the longer the delay in filing their tax returns will be. Although you might have some clients who usually wait till the end to provide the required documents, this would pile up the work at your side as the deadline comes nearer.

 

Hence, you are advised to do your part and push your clients to send the documents, such as their identity proof, income proofs, proof of losses incurred, to name a few. Suppose you need some specific documents from any of your clients. In that case, you are advised to make a checklist for them all to streamline preparing tax returns.  

  • Prioritize Tasks Related to Filing Returns

 

Many less-prior tasks in life – both professional and personal, often take more time than expected and then become the reason for stress. The same holds when you prepare tax returns to be filed within the deadline. Since you must be having much work lying on your plate, you must prioritize the steps involved in tax preparation and filing the right way.

 

By categorizing the tasks involved suitably, you will get a clear picture of the time it would take to complete them. Also, you will be in a better position to focus more on the essential steps while delegating other tasks to your associates. 

  • Switch to the Cloud-Hosted Environment

 

One way to simplify how you work during the tax season is to host your tax software on the cloud. It will ensure remote access to the cloud-hosted software, which means you can work for your clients from anywhere and anytime. Having remote access to your tax applications during tax season feels like being given some extra hours to finish essential tasks at home or on the go. 

 

Tax software hosting services make the work device-agnostic, meaning you can work remotely using your laptop, tablet, or even a smartphone. 

 

Recommended Read: A Complete Guide to UltraTax CS Software

  • Double Check for Data Security Measures in Place

 

While preparing for tax returns, you handle confidential information shared by your clients, which makes it imperative that you ensure data security. However, the increased risk of cyberattacks on accounting firms makes it challenging to keep the data safe. 

 

Irrespective of the environment you work in during tax season, you must implement advanced security measures to safeguard the data. In the local-hosted climate, you need to invest in various security measures. However, if you go for cloud hosting services, the chosen service provider will handle security. 

 

 

Tax season 2021 has already begun. You know more about the work at hand than anyone else. Hence, it is crucial that you focus on doing it the right way to minimize stress while maximizing productivity. 

 

For more details about how to streamline the tax filing process this year, contact our hosting experts at 1-855-583-7486. 

 

CategoriesAccounting Software Hosting

How To Select An Accounting Software Hosting Service Provider?

Posted on August 9, 2021by Taranpreet Singh

In the current age of technological revolution, every business owner wants to adopt the latest applications and methods to continue their growth journey. Whether IT, health, construction, finance, or tax industry, they need advanced software to manage and run their businesses. They also want to benefit from evolving cloud technology, which has touched almost every business sphere globally. 

 

Particularly for accounting professionals, the convergence of accounting software and cloud lies in selecting any accounting software hosting provider. CPAs and accounting firms have realized the need and benefits of cloud hosting and are looking for ways to migrate their business process to a cloud-hosted environment. 

 

Next to selecting an accounting software like QuickBooks or Sage for long-term usage, choosing an accounting software hosting provider takes time. You would also want to ensure that the cloud service provider you hire offers the best-in-class services. 

 

Wondering how to make the final move of selecting a cloud hosting provider for your accounting software? Consider the following factors for best results:

  • Deployed IT Infrastructure

 

The IT infrastructure required to host accounting applications on the cloud is quite expensive, so most businesses prefer hiring a cloud solution provider. Still, it is essential to check the intrinsic details of the infrastructure put in place by your cloud service provider. 

 

For instance, you should ask about the location of data centers and the reliability of the data center network in case of natural disturbances. In addition, you can check the types of servers that offer cloud solutions (high-performance computing servers) to ensure uninterrupted performance with more extensive applications and collaboration.

 

Recommended Read:  Do Cloud Hosting Solutions for Accounting Firms Make Sense?

  • Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery

 

Any unexpected interruption to accessing accounting software hosted on the cloud can cause significant loss to your business. This is why you want the chosen cloud service provider to reinstate the hosting services as soon as possible after a disruptive event. Ideally, your accounting software hosting provider should have the necessary technology in place to identify different types of risks that can harm your business. 

 

If you know about how cloud hosting works, you can ask for more information about data replication at various internal levels to ensure business continuity. Make sure you hire a service provider that does not charge any additional amount to cater to such needs.  

  • Data Backup

 

Imagine the situation in which you lose access to various accounting files you have been working on for weeks. You have tried every tool and method to recover the data but are unable to do so. 

 

While this can also happen in a cloud-hosted environment, regular data backups act as a solution to deal with such situations. Every cloud service provider offers this in-built solution to help their clients recover data in case of unexpected data loss. First, however, you should dig deeper to know to what extent your service provider helps recover the data and how quick this process is. 

 

At Verito Technologies, we ensure a 30-days rolling backup to ensure our clients do not lose their business-centric data.

  • Cost of the Hosting Plan

 

Most cloud service providers offer different accounting software hosting plans aimed to benefit diverse clientele. However, the availability of several hosting plans scale of operations may differ from one business to another. Hence, a cloud hosting plan suitable for one type of business may not be the right fit for another. 

 

Although many business owners compare cloud services only based on pricing, you are advised not to do so. Instead, pricing should be just one parameter in your checklist, while you should also look for other service qualities. For example, it would be best to start a free trial with an accounting software hosting provider and experience the benefits you can get. 

 

What’s Your Plan?

 

Selecting the right cloud service provider is not just a choice these days but a necessity. Therefore, all the factors detailed above must have given you a fair idea about the selection process and how to check the competence of a cloud hosting provider. 

 

If you want to move accounting software to the cloud, give us a call at 1-855-583-7486.