I work in a 99.9% online software (cloud computing) based environment. Very little computer installed software.
All my data is backed up through one or more means and all (almost all) the software I use is via web browser.
The ONLY main software that I use “offline” (installed on a computer) is Microsoft Office and Quickbooks.
Microsoft Office is not a key productivity software for me as I can easily work in Google Docs or Office 365.
For my needs, computer installed software is NOT needed, except for a web browser and tools like Dropbox and Carbnoite and AVG’s anti-virus software.
A few days ago I started using QuickBooks Online for my cash flow management (accounting) needs. I’m glad I did it so I can be 100% online (very convenient) and have my bank statements more quickly reconciled.
However, I’m afraid.
Not because it’s QuickBooks Online, but for the overall issue that I’m taking one of the most important aspects of my business (money) and trusting it to the cloud.
I now better understand why there are still many business owners (not the ones who are cloud illiterate) who are very cautious of moving their enterprises to the cloud.
I’m in the midst of a not fun tax audit. My thinking is, if I need records years from now – will they be safe with Quickbooks Online? On my OWN computer that I can see and touch – I know it’s safe (unless the hard disk gets fried or something else happens – which DOES happen!).
Of course cloud computing IS SAFE. This does NOT mean there are not problems with security breaches and etc. But online computing is as safe as your bank accounts – or safer.
However, I feel the time is now to upgrade to a fully online computing world. Also, I hate having my computer slow down by firing up QuickBooks (yes I know I could install more memory).
I’ve been using Quickbooks Online for several days and I like it. It’s fast, relatively easy to use and overall works well.
I thought about using Xero (I don’t think Peachtree has an online accounting software, but they do have SageOne). However, I decided to stick with the software my accountant is most familiar with.
Another interesting “issue” has cropped up.
I’ve been using Freshbooks (which is so awesome) for my invoice management because I found Quickbooks (the software version) invoicing to be a bit complicated and cumbersome. It looks like the Quickbooks Online version invoicing tool is easier and smoother. If it is easier I’ll have a fully integrated accounting solution no double entry of Quickbooks and Freshbooks.
