Today has been very productive. A new client had recently purchased an iMac to replace their Microsoft desktop and then realised that their Sage Desktop accounts software was not compatible without installing a parallels program and installing a windows operating system.
I had previous discussions with the client about transferring their accounts over to a cloud based system but they had been reluctant to change to what they considered a radical change from how they worked.
With the nice shiny iMac on their desk, which they had chosen because of their growing frustration with the Microsoft Windows operating system, they did not want to go backwards and install Windows on their iMac. That was when I got a call asking if I could pop over and show them what accounting options they had.
Having explained the benefits of a cloud based system, I gave them a demo of Sage Accounting, Quickbooks and also Xero. The client decided to go with my personal favourite, Xero.
45 minutes later I had transferred all of their accounting data from Sage over to Xero via ‘Move my books’ – which Xero currently offer to cover the cost. The Client is now up and running and welcomes the ability to work on the go; or as they may do later, work via their iPad with their feet up in their living room at home.
Moving from a PC desk based accounting program is a simple process to convert over to either Sage, Quickbooks or Xero, as ‘Move my books’ automate the process. All that is required is a quick check of the accounting data to ensure that everything is as it should be, including contacts and VAT calculations.
From my clients point of view the 2 hours I spent with them has cost them just £36, which is a lot less than the cost of installing additional software and programs to run their old system.
The ongoing cost of Xero which is £20 plus VAT, is comparable to what they were paying each month to have Sage on their desktop and to renew the program each year. Xero though, has the added benefit that by being a cloud based system, it allows its users to work on the go and to collaborate with their bookkeepers and accountants in real time.
If you are inspired to consider changing from a PC based Sage accounting system, over to a cloud based accounting system, then please contact me to have a discussion.