Forum

• # 108659
• Fri 08 May 2015 09:04 AM

Hi

I'm just setting up my own business as a bookkeeper (just applying for my practise license now) and was wondering how to deal with the software side of things.

I've been using Sage Instant Accounts for my studies but I hear about lots of other different software packages being used by bookkeepers and their clients.  When you take on a new client, if they aren't using any software package yet, do you tend to find out what their accountant is using and go with that?  Do you use your own software package or do you expect clients to buy their own software and log into theirs?  If they already have a software package, which isn't one that you have used before, do you then have to quickly learn how to use it?  Or do you find that an excel spreadsheet is often sufficient for smaller clients?

It would be great to hear other people's experiences, to get an idea of what the normal approach is.

Thank you

Nicky

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• # 108666
• Sat 09 May 2015 03:18 PM

Hi Nicky,

I'm in the same quandy as you. Just received my practice licence and have signed up my first client on Wednesday.

I'm having a real headache with the software issue. I studied with Sage 50 pro- i really liked it, but soooo expensive when you are just starting out. I have looked at Sage Instant, Xero, Kashflow, quickbooks to name but few. 

All the cloud based software seem to operate the same way- they charge the client to use it and its supposed to be free to us as 'partners' but be careful with that as you may find there are hidden costs. the theory is that you re-charge your client the cost of the package therefore no cost to you.

 However on signing up my first client and finding out as a start up he wants to keep his costs low, and really doesn't need or want any fancy software I have decided that I will start his on Excel. He just wants a cash flow forcast and Income /expenditure reports.  No cost to him ( except my time) and no cost to me. Just going to email him reports on a monthly basis.

As regards a normal approach- I dont think there is one. It depends on what you want to do- its your business. A lot of accountants will work with Sage- but if you do any freelance work i suppose they would provide the software/user licence. 

Personally I have decided on keeping it simple - too many software packages could make my brain explode! so I have decided that as and when I can jutsify sage 50 I may purchase it. Until then I will either do it manually/ with excel or for the clients that are techno geeks probably use Xero- its trendy and easy to use. Or I may just stick with Xero- but going to see how it goes and stop giving myself stress by trying to choose now.

You can sign up to many a free trial with most software providers- have a try and see what you feel comfortable with and go with that. 

I did come across a little desktop package on my searches that could be of interest.- Its called Solar- very simple and a one of cost of around £175 plus VAT. They do have a cloud based version too. May be worth a look?

good luck and keep in touch- it would be good to compare notes!

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• # 108695
• Tue 12 May 2015 10:21 AM

Hi

Thank you for the useful information and tips.  Hope it's going well with your new client. 

A friend of mine who is an accountant mentioned VT as a software which is very similar to Sage.  I think I'm going to have a little look at the different softwares, do some trials, as and when I have time.  I'll do like you are doing and try and keep it simple/keep the costs down. 

Thank you

Nicky

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• # 108697
• Tue 12 May 2015 10:57 AM

Hi Nicky,

Sounds like I’m in a very similar position to you having just applied for my practice licence although during my studies I used Sage 50 which was supplied by training link. My main issue will be getting practical experience as it’s all been theory so far.

On the Software side, the only other software I have tried so far is Sage One which I discounted very quickly for various reasons.

Before starting the training with the ICB and bookkeeping I spoke with a few accountants/bookkeepers to see if I was doing the right thing and I remember that they ALL recommended that I train on Sage as it was by far the most used software by accountants, so I have assumed that it’s probably easier for me to keep with Sage when I get the practice licence.

Regards,

Mike

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• # 108698
• Tue 12 May 2015 11:22 AM

Hi Guys, 

Software is always a big question, and the answer really comes down to who your ideal client is going to be and what their requirements are likely to be.

In my business I use both VT Transaction+ and Xero.  The client is put onto one or the other depending on their needs.  I've trailed other software but most doesn't work well for me.  Previously I've used Sage and QuickBooks but neither fitted the needs of my clients particularly well.

I would say that if you don't know who your ideal client is going to be yet, try a few different software packages and get a few that you like and find useful.  It may be that when the clients come along that their needs dictate a change, but by trying a few you should have an idea of the strengths and weaknesses of each.

I often hear the arguement that the accountant uses sage so we need to, but any accountant worth their salt will be adaptable (especially in this age of technology) so try to be guided by the needs of the client rather than the whims of the accountant.

Kind regards

Kris

• Kris McCulloch
  www.ayrshireaccountancy.co.uk
  
  Winner - BKN Most Innovative Accountancy Firm 2012
  
  Latest Blog Post: Bookkeepers Award 2015

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• # 108712
• Wed 13 May 2015 08:19 AM

Hi

I agree with Kris.the software does depend on the client. My advice would be don't buy any software until you have your first client. they may well have their own anyway. 

Kind regards and very best wishes 

Elaine

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