How to Make the Move to Digital Accounting is this week’s “I Hate Numbers” vlog . I’m diving into the world of digital accounting, also known as cloud accounting. Making the transition to digital accounting might seem daunting, but fear not; we’ve got you covered. In this post, we’ll outline the three crucial stages involved in moving to digital accounting, helping you embrace the future of financial management for your business.
Stage 1: Preparation for the Digital Leap
Before you leap into the digital realm, it’s essential to lay the groundwork. The first step is to determine what you want your digital accounting system to achieve for you. Are you after comprehensive profit reports, or do you need a more detailed breakdown? This decision will guide what aspects of your business you need to track.
Communication is key. Ensure your team is on the same page about this transition. Digital accounting isn’t just for the finance team; everyone in your organization will benefit from the information it generates. Discuss the changes with your existing staff and involve them in the conversation.
Consider the support and training your team will need. Whether you’re an established organization or a solopreneur, think about your existing knowledge and what level of expertise you require. You can also seek assistance from experts like us, Zero Platinum Partners, to make the process smoother.
Stage 2: The Migration Process
Once you’ve prepared, it’s time to migrate to digital accounting. If you’re already using a system, decide what data you want to retain. Do you need transaction history for several years, or is a summarized version sufficient?
Take a close look at your chart of accounts. Remember, this system is for your purposes, not just the finance team’s. Customize it to your liking, adding or modifying headings as needed.
Consider your customers and suppliers. Which ones do you want to transfer to the new system, and which can you leave behind? Valuable data should be part of the migration process.
Choosing the right date for the switch is crucial. Typically, we recommend doing it at the end of a VAT quarter or your financial year. You can set up the new system beforehand and start getting familiar with it while preparing the data for transfer.
Think about the level of support you’ll need during the migration. Your expertise and the complexity of the transition will determine whether you require minimal or extensive assistance. Make a decision based on your specific needs.
Lastly, select the accounting system that suits you best. There are many options available, but consider factors like usability, error correction, tracking capabilities, and integration with external applications.
Stage 3: Ongoing Operations in the Digital World
After the transition, expect some initial adjustment. Training and support may be necessary, especially if your team is new to the system. Our preference is Xero, and we offer accredited training and support for a seamless experience.
Assess the level of support you require. It may range from minimal assistance to extensive hand-holding, depending on your team’s comfort with the new system.
Empower your staff with the knowledge and tools they need to operate the system effectively. Monitor and review their progress as they become more comfortable with digital accounting.
Once your digital accounting system is up and running, you’ll unlock a world of possibilities. It will provide you with insights for better planning, understanding your profitability, and identifying areas for improvement.
To further assist you on this journey, we’ve prepared a free guide called “Release The Power of You.” It offers a comprehensive background on digital accounting and outlines the essential steps to make the transition smooth and successful.
If you found this guide helpful, please share it with others who might benefit. And remember, if you need any support during the migration or preparation process, don’t hesitate to reach out. Welcome to the world of digital accounting, where efficiency and productivity await. Happy digital accounting!