An Overview of Web-based Bookkeeping SolutionsFrom AllBusiness.com*Bizfinity, eLedger, NetLedger, QuickBooks for the Web and ePeachtree. When you use an online application (sometimes called a hosted solution), you contract with a service provider to securely store and back up your financial information. You access your financial records online by entering a password, and the service provider is responsible for providing software updates, security and data storage. Most providers let you pick and choose from a menu of features, but basic service generally includes double-entry general ledgers, invoicing, accounts payable, accounts receivable and financial reporting. Some applications also include time sheets and expense reports, as well as payroll, check writing, credit card and inventory features. Basic service costs between $5 and $20 per month for a set number of users, and you can choose the level of access each user receives. Advanced features, available for an additional cost, include tools to help you manage e-commerce, sales, and customer and vendor relationships. Online applications certainly aren't the right solution for every business. First, hosted applications are slower than locally stored applications, unless you're using a high-speed Internet connection. And second, because they're newer than desktop applications, many online applications aren't as feature-rich or as user friendly as higher-end desktop software. But for some businesses, especially e-commerce shops, the advantages of using an online accounting solution might outweigh the drawbacks. Consider some of the ways these Web-based applications can help your business:
Hassle-free technology. When you use a Web-based accounting system, you don't have to install software or upgrade it each time the vendor releases a new version. And as your company grows, you won't need to worry about outgrowing your system's storage capacity or setting up a network to accommodate multiple users. The service provider will handle these things. Integrated features. Several of today's online accounting packages bridge the gap between offline and online transactions, automatically transferring data from e-commerce transactions into accounting records. But when you use a desktop application, e-sales information usually has to be rekeyed into the accounting system. You'll need to do some homework to determine whether or not an online accounting and bookkeeping solution is worth your investment. Visit the links in this article to get more information about online accounting solutions and decide if you should keep your books online. *AllBusiness.com provides resources to help small and growing businesses start, market, manage and expand their business. The site has Forms & Agreements, Business Guides, a Platinum Program and Business Directories along with an extensive library of Articles and Advice to help with all of the activities associated with starting and running a business.
Copyright © 1999 - 2005 AllBusiness.com, Inc., All Rights Reserved.
|
Search by State
Get Quotes For:
Mentioned In...
"BuyerZone is the sort of site that the Internet seems designed for... an amazing service." See Also...Advice & Tips |
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Related Terms | Accounting, Top Accounting Firms, Accounting Outsourcing Services, Accounting Solutions, Bookkeeping, Business Record Keeping, Database Development, Accounting Software for Small Business, Small Business Bookkeeping, Accounting & Bookkeeping Buyer Comments |
|---|
| Popular Categories | Business Phone Systems - Collection Agency - Copiers - Forklifts - Golf Carts - Home Security Systems - Medical Billing Services - Medical Billing Software - Metal Buildings - Office Partitions - POS Systems - Postage Meters - Shipping Containers - Small Business Health Insurance - Time Clocks - All Categories... |
|---|---|
| Corporate |
About BuyerZone -
Help -
Privacy Policy -
Top Cats -
Site Map -
B2B Sales Leads Customer Care: 1-888-393-5000 |
| RSS 2.0 | Get summaries of updated and new Buyer's Guides through our RSS feed. More info >> |
|
© 1997-2009, BuyerZone.com, Inc., A Division of
|
|
