Cloud accounting: The possible impact on the industry
Cloud computing and its accounting software has become one of the biggest and most popular technological developments for the accounting industry in recent times, and as a result it has rapidly changed the way the industry works and functions.
Accountants from all over the globe are aware of the new software, with many having adopted the new technology as part of their process. Although many have embraced cloud accounting, others are accepting it with some reservations.
Here we look at cloud accounting, its benefits and drawbacks, and its impact on accounting professionals and the industry altogether. Read on to learn more about cloud accounting.
What is Cloud Accounting?
The development of cloud computing has created various types of software that enables users to carry out tasks online, offsite, and from anywhere in the world.
Cloud accounting is a specific type of software, specifically designed to mimic traditional accounting software, but in a more accessible and efficient way. Using remote servers, all data and information is sent to the cloud online, where it can be stored and shared with others.
Cloud accounting software is hosted online rather than installed on a specific device. Accountants are able to travel with the comfort of knowing that they can access their documents and data, wherever they please. This has a range of uses, especially for certain industries that need speedy access to their data remotely such as entrepreneurs and those working in construction and real estate.
Keep reading on to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of cloud accounting. You can also keep up to date with the latest industry news by browsing more news from Alexander and Co.
The Benefits of Cloud Accounting for the Industry
Accessibility
As stated previously, cloud accounting is much more accessible than traditional accounting software, which could save a business plenty of its much-needed time. By freeing up time to use for other tasks, cloud accounting could potentially help smaller accounting businesses grow.
Accessibility to the software from devices anywhere in the world – so long as you have access to the internet – diminishes any concerns about keeping in touch with colleagues and clients elsewhere. Not only that, but multiple colleagues in different locations can access the same data, all at once, making remote working or travelling for work much less of a concern.
Up-to-date technology
By using cloud accounting software, businesses are simply tied into monthly subscriptions, rather than a one-off costly payment and contract. Not only does this allow accountants to regularly choose whether or not to continue using the software, it also ensures that any software updates available, are automatically installed. No further add-ons or additional costs are required to receive the most current version of the software.
Reporting
Reporting also becomes much simpler, with real-time information being presented to the business, as and when it is required. Long gone are the days of manual data entry and reporting, reducing the risk of errors in any information the business sends across to clients.
Security
Security of financial information is much stronger when using cloud accounting, as unlike traditional methods, the software is not restricted to certain devices. Access to the information requires a secure, online login, reducing the likelihood of information falling into the wrong hands.
Overall, the use of cloud accounting software can not only save time and improve security, but it can also reduce overall costs the business incurs.
A Number of Drawbacks
Cloud accounting is not without its potential drawbacks and here are a couple of the downfalls that accountants face when using the software.
Lack of control
With the ease of access from anywhere around the world, comes a small lack of control. Servers all over the world could be the host of the accounting software, and while this will not cause any disruption or limitations, it could mean that there may be different rules in place in terms of the privacy your business has. If this is a concern, it’s well worth comparing various cloud accounting software programmes, finding out where they are hosted, and checking the terms for any privacy issues.
Backing up data
Backing up your data is slightly less efficient than traditional software, and with the UK requiring that business data be kept for a number of years after closure, this needs to be considered.
Cloud accounting software has become the norm for storing and reviewing financial data. Even with some concerns, there are a lot of benefits to the developments in cloud accounting software. The accounting industry and its members should consider how implementing it could impact their businesses, before implementing it across their business.
Choose Alexander & Co for trusted accounting services
When it comes to cloud accounting, the positives of using software to grow your business generally outweighs the negatives. However, it is crucial that the industry and its members seriously consider its impact as the technology develops.
If you’re looking to work with an experienced accounting business, Alexander and Co can help. We have many years of trusted client relationships and a proven track record of reliability.
Explore our business services and get in touch with us to learn more about what we do.
