Implementing new software tools at your accounting firm can be a great first step to updating your tech stack and scaling your business… However, there are some things you should keep in mind when picking products. You should be just as thorough with your tech selection as you are when evaluating potential team members. 

What kind of budget are you looking at? 

We won’t kid you – tech costs can really add up. Before you make the decision to even start looking for new software, you should sit down and make a budget. Figure out how much you are willing to spend and how much value you would be getting out of specific software. The whole point of good tools, after all, is to save you time and money. If a tool that is slightly out of your budget will offer more value in the long run than the cheaper product, that’s worth considering too. 

Is it customizable? 

No two accounting firms are alike. When you’re picking out a software tool, you want to find one that will work for your business specifically. Customization is key here. Does the software allow you to remove unnecessary features? Can you customize names and descriptions to better match the language you use at your firm? To get your answers, look for demos and free trials of the software you are considering.

Will this software play nice with your other tools? 

Being able to integrate new software with your existing tools is important. Good workflow can be compromised when your apps and tools don’t work well with one another. Make a list of what tools you are currently using. Will any of these be replaced by the new software? What tools are vital to your workday and need to work with this new system? Being able to link accounts and apps can help streamline processes at your firm. 

What does your team think?

You don’t want to make any decisions about software before consulting the people that are going to be using it on a daily basis. Consult your staff to see what they think and make sure they are included in the selection process. You’ll also want to take into account how your team is going to learn the new software and how difficult that will be. Does the software company offer a training program? How long will it take your team to develop the skills necessary to use their new tools? 

Will your information be secure? 

Not only do clients need you to protect their data, but you also have a lot of sensitive information that can’t be compromised. That’s why it’s important to make sure whichever software you choose is one that prioritizes security. When taking security into account, also look at how often the software offers updates and how quickly the company fixes bugs. A company that is responsive to clients is one that takes security seriously. 

Good software shouldn’t just be something you use: it should be a valuable part of the team that works seamlessly with every other part. If you want that kind of balance and ease of workflow, you’ve got to make your tech decisions carefully. Tell us below how you implement new software at your company!