Using Free Resources when Implementing New Accounting Software

When undertaking a new accounting software implementation, you are certainly undertaking a project that needs monitoring and management. There are several aspects to this process which we will be reviewing in upcoming entries. 

One of the first steps is creating your needs analysis for new accounting software. This can be accomplished with or without the assistance of outside help. Certainly, interviewing staff and documenting their comments regarding what they like about the current system, what they dislike, and what features may help them do their job more effectively is important. But just as important may be bringing an outside perspective as to what capabilities exist that you (or your staff) may be unaware of. 

In this capacity using a consultant can be beneficial. Independent consultants will charge anywhere from $75 to $150 per hour or more to provide this expertise. One way to avoid this cost is to use vendor representatives to assist with this process. Most vendor representatives anticipate the need to assist with defining your needs and developing and demonstrating their solutions to these needs. Most are also willing to help you review the capabilities that exist that you may not be currently using. Whether that functionality is processing payroll internally, printing checks on blank stock, using EFT, automated electronic approval processes, document management, etc., the vendor representative can help you review these options and see what makes sense for you.

The articles Using A Sales Person To Determine Your Accounting Software Needs and Accounting Software Solutions: Things to Think of Before You Buy! at www.accountingsoftwaresuccess.com further explain how to structure your search using this technique. In addition, the articles Accounting Software Change Roadmap and Implementation Checklist for New Accounting Software review the overall implementation strategy in more detail.

It is important to use all the resources at your disposal in order to make the best informed decision in the quickest manner. Help you do that is our mission!