Should I Switch to QuickBooks Online? People often wonder which among QuickBooks Desktop and QuickBooks Online (QBO) is better for business accounting, especially when both come from the same software development company Intuit. Those who are already using a QuickBooks Desktop version (Pro, Premier or Enterprise) too wish to know whether to switch to QuickBooks Online or not. The choice is simple if you evaluate your business’s specific needs. However, it is important to clear a misconception that the size of your business is the only factor to decide between the two options. It is a myth that big businesses choose QuickBooks Desktop while QBO is ideal for small and midsized companies. Let’s begin the real discussion. How Does QBO Excel over QB Desktop? QuickBooks Online is a complete cloud-based solution which addresses some major concerns the QB Desktop users face. These include: ● Multi-user Mode: The desktop version of the software grants access to only one accountant. If you have hired an eternal accountant in addition to an in-house accountant, the online version would allow access to both of them. ● Access Flexibility: It’s a no brainer. The software running on a single desktop in your office would be available for use only during office hours. On the other hand, QBO can be accessed at any time and from any place and also using any type of device (laptop, tablet, smartphone etc.). ● Auto Upgrades: With QuickBooks Desktop, you would need to request your vendor to upgrade the software to its latest version. With QBO, it happens automatically without even small participation from your side. ● Better Security: The desktop software running in a computer or on a local server is anyway prone to security threats. QBO, on the other hand, runs on an undisclosed server that might be thousands of miles away and is more secure. The additional advantage of online data backups offers extra protection against natural and manmade disasters. What about the Costs? QuickBooks Desktop demands a one-time fee in return to lifetime software usage. However, the costs of regular upgrades and technical support need to be taken into account. If you switch to QuickBooks Online, you will have to pay the monthly subscription fee but that would include upgrades and technical support without any extra cost. What about Features? QBO loses on certain features that are available only in the software’s desktop version. Some of these include inventory assemblies, sales orders, item receipts,
progress invoices, job costing and more. However, there are features like automatic email reporting, invoices and sales receipt automation, location tracking and more that are exclusive only to QuickBooks Online. Moreover, there is an ever-increasing base of third-party apps that can be integrated with QBO to make more out of it. One Last Note Switching from QB Pro and Premier to QBO is a good decision but from QB Enterprise to QBO might not prove to be favourable. It is mainly due to the complexity associated with the files of the business already using the Enterprise version for a few years. If you plan to make the switch, MMC Convert has all the expertise, knowledge and experience to make it smooth and fruitful for you, irrespective of your business size or niche. Enjoy hassle-free data conversion to QBO without any data loss or risks with our affordable services that fit your budget.