Cloud computing is the buzz in the IT world. People are slowly understanding the benefits of the cloud and how to deploy the application in the organization. Hosting accounting software on the cloud is quite beneficial as it helps to access accounts anywhere and anytime. In addition, cloud accounting software reduces the infrastructure costs.
Once you are ready to get the cloud accounting software, there are a few things that you must keep in mind. Here is the list of top 5 tips that will help you make the most of your cloud network.
- Choose the RIGHT hosting provider
The first step, of course, is finding the perfect cloud hosting provider. Cloud hosting providers offer a lot of services and you must know which all you want to opt for. A good hosting provider must have an SSL security certificate to ensure the highest level of data encryption. Plus, anytime support is also very important. So, make sure your service provider is always available to answer your queries. It is better if you get a dedicated professional to manage your database. A good service provider must also update the software and take regular back-ups of the data.
- Choose the RIGHT cloud accounting platform
Hosting accounting software on the cloud is a wise step. If you want a web browser based accounting solution then it is important to choose the correct accounting platform. QuickBooks Online and Sage accounting platforms are the two of the popular accounting platforms. Hosted Quickbooks Enterprise can be installed on multiple devices to provide easy access to data. There are a lot of other web-based platforms as well that help you deploy services without much of hassle.
- Check the functionalities
Functionalities also play important role in choosing the right cloud accounting platform. According to the nature of your business, there might be different functionalities that you need in your accounting platform. Some of the basic needs are inventory management, payroll management, CRM, sales management, and cash flow management. You must compare the two software, based on their functionalities, to choose the right one. There might be a chance that you do not find the required functionalities built-in the platform. In such cases, you can buy additional apps to fulfill your requirements.
- Check the Add-ons available and the ones required
It is important to know if you need any add-ons. If yes, then buy the ones that can actually enhance the functionality of your accounting platform. Some of the QuickBooks add-ons are TSheets, BigTime, Bill.com, and more. You should opt for the add-ons only when you know that the existing platform does not cover the cost or some other important jobs. To know more about the add-ons you can visit Top 10 add-ons for your Quickbooks Software
- An agreement to avoid disputes
It is very important to own your data. Even if you have an accounting or bookkeeping practitioner for your firm, it is important to take the ownership of the data so that no disputes take place. A written agreement between you and the accountant stating that the data belongs to you is very important.
It is very important to keep these things in mind, especially when you are hosting an accounting software for the first time on the cloud. Remember, one plan does not fit all! You will have to understand your existing account system so that you can make an informed decision while choosing a hosting plan and hosting provider.
