Accounting Software: Why Switch?

In his blog, "The Poetry of Marketing", Jim Behrle asks that immortal question: why switch accounting software?

Should your company use a new accounting software program or should you simply just go with what you have? There are many advantages to using software as opposed to relying on your employees. First, here are some of the reasons why you need to have the latest accounting software in order to keep your business on track.

Jim lists some basic issues clearly aimed at small business owners, to which I would add:

Have you discussed your needs with a professional accountant experienced in systems implementation?

If the answer is "no", then I wouldn't necessarily switch accounting software. The first step is to determine what you need and the second is to see if your existing system will meet those needs.

What can a professional accountant do for you?

• Help you create a structure that emphasizes the business drivers that are important to you. For example, if you rely on customers or vendors in the United States, then changes in profit due to the USD exchange rate should be easily identified.
• Help you create financial reports that are easy to read and act upon.
• Train you and your staff so that the transactions be entered easily and the reports created quickly.
• If it turns out your system needs replacement, they can help you select the appropriate new one (or upgrade of the existing one).

But please don't wait until the end of the year or when the tax returns are due before taking action. The best time to change systems is the slowest time of year for your business.