Guest post by: Stephanie Elsen of Red Wing Software
Every year, software companies work with prospects and customers who want to upgrade their accounting software at year end. Of course they have thought about upgrading their software many times throughout the year, knowing their system could work faster, and they could make the jobs of many people flow more easily. But the truth is upgrading your accounting software takes a lot of time in planning, research, training, transferring data, etc. It’s no wonder why people wait until the last minute.
It’s a pretty easy decision to put it off, since many businesses start their new fiscal year in January. The thinking is: New Year, New System! Enter your data into the new system and you will have a fresh start. This is actually sound thinking. There is, however, one major pitfall. Most other businesses are thinking the same way, and this makes accounting software providers extremely busy at year end. And what’s more, because it’s the end of the year, the support staff is busy answering customers’ technical calls about managing year end processes. Thus, there are fewer resources available to help your business transfer its data and learn how to use your new system.
Your software upgrade will go more smoothly if you take the following actions.
1. Create an action plan.
Create a written plan several months ahead of time that details the answers to these and similar questions:
- Who will do what?
- What is the time frame for each person’s part in the upgrade?
- What new hardware will be needed? When will it arrive?
- Which data can be brought in from the old system, and how will that data transfer be done?
Having all of these details ahead of time helps you stay organized and on task.
2. Do your research now.
Now is the best time to contact software vendors to get all of your questions answered. (Use Capterra.com for this!) You will even have time to do live demos of every system you are interested in, so you are completely confident in your final decision.
3. Get training for all involved.
Facing the transition to a new accounting system is not always easy for your employees. It’s hard to change processes that have been in place for many years. Getting hands-on training well before the transition really helps employees feel comfortable with the system and gives them the confidence they need to begin using the system. By investing in quality training, you may even find your employees are excited to make the switch.
Preparing early for your accounting software can make a big difference in your transition. Use these tips for planning early and your company will be way ahead of the game!
Stephanie Elsen is the Web Marketing Manager at Red Wing Software, a company providing payroll and accounting software to businesses nationwide. She is passionate about internet marketing, travel, jogging and watching her son play hockey. Follow her on Twitter @stephelsen.
