Seven benefits of Cloud Accounting

The use of the cloud is becoming more prevalent, with many of us using it daily, for example, Dropbox and Google Drive.

The cloud is programs, applications, services, and storage accessed through the internet, rather than running on a desktop computer hard drive. We can access cloud services from web browsers or mobile desktop applications. It has wide-ranging applications and provides immense benefits to those who utilise it. For example, popular use of the cloud is cloud accounting.

What is cloud accounting?

Cloud accounting is where the accounting processes and financial data are accessed through the internet. Traditionally, accounting systems were desktop-based, meaning software was installed on the desktop computer and run from a computer’s hard drive or through their onsite servers.

This had many drawbacks such as limited access to data, required the business to purchase expensive equipment, perform system maintenance and the tedious task of backing up data.

Cloud accounting provides the same functionality as a traditional desktop-based system, but it runs from the cloud, offering a business many additional benefits.

There are many cloud accounting software available, and some popular ones include Xero, MYOB, Sage, QuickBooks, and Oracle.

Benefits of Cloud Accounting

Reduce Costs. Avoid the upfront cost of purchasing expensive computing infrastructure, equipment maintenance and engaging computing professionals. Save money by leveraging off economies of scale and only pay for the services you need through a cloud service provider. They will provide and manage all the computing infrastructure. You will typically pay for the services you need on a monthly subscription, thus lowering your operating costs. This provides flexibility for your business to scale while avoiding unnecessary expenses.
Save time. The software is updated and installed, and data is backed up automatically with cloud-based accounting, so you don’t have to do it. In addition, cloud accounting supports integration with third-party providers, so data automatically flows into the business accounts. This allows for the automation of routine tasks, saving you time by reducing the need for data entry.
Access your financials from anywhere. You have on-demand access to your accounts quickly and easily from anywhere with an internet connection. In addition, your business has the flexibility to work across multiple locations or provide working from home arrangements, and various users can access the financial data simultaneously.
Work smarter. Financial processes are streamlined with automation and multi-user access. Cloud accounting software automates some functionalities within invoicing, payroll, expenses, debtors, and real-time bank feeds. This reduces the likelihood of errors, improves efficiency and data accuracy saving you valuable time. Access to real-time numbers facilitates up-to-date reporting, providing visibility of the accounts, balance sheets and an accurate snapshot of the business health, giving you a clear picture of your business. Collaboration with your accountant, colleagues, and key stakeholders is made simple. They can stay connected to your accounts with multi-user access capabilities and permissions that you can tailor to control access. You can easily share financial documents and reports and provide input simultaneously, avoiding the need to use cumbersome USB sticks and back and forth emails.
Greater insights. Cloud-based accounting facilitates timely, detailed, and accurate data, which enhances reporting and financial information quality. This aids faster and improved decision making and frees up your time to focus on higher-value tasks and other business opportunities to achieve growth.
Outsource your accounting with ease. Another benefit of cloud-based accounting is the ability to outsource the accounting and payroll functions while focusing on the core functions of your business. Outsourcing to qualified accountants and bookkeepers will remove the pressure of back-office processes and complex regulatory compliance while still having the financial information at your fingertips.
Data Security. The cloud provides advanced security features which guarantee that the accounting data is stored and managed securely. All information is automatically backed up and securely stored, so if your computer crashes or is lost, your data is safe and instantly available in the cloud.

Accario works with over 30+ accounting-related SaaS software providers. We are platinum Xero partners and certified in Spotlight Reporting. We would love to help you with your accounting and finance needs. Talk to us here.

About Accario

For over a decade Accario has been providing technology-enabled accounting & finance outsourced services. We aim to transform your finance back-office into an accelerator for growth. Accario serves ~200 companies across Australia & UK, from accounting firms and franchises to large-scale enterprises.