Accounting teams can find themselves in a difficult situation when trying to switch over to new software. There are many mistakes that can be made so it’s important to make sure you’re aware of them.
To help you out, we’re going to break down the 5 most common mistakes and what you need to do to avoid making them when using new accounting software.
The following are the 10 most common mistakes that accounting teams make when using new software:
1. Not getting enough training before they start using the new software
If you don’t get enough training in how to use the software, you’re going to run into problems.
First of all, you won’t know how to take advantage of everything that’s available with it and this means it might be a waste of time and money. More importantly, you have a higher risk of making mistakes.
2. Not being aware of all features and how to use them
If you’re not aware of all the features that your new software has and how to use them, then you won’t be in a position to make full use of the new system.
You can avoid this by looking through the manual or just taking advantage of any training that’s made available.
3. Neglecting the importance of integration and mobile access
If you’re not using accounting software that has integration and mobile access, then you’re going to have a hard time.
The best way to avoid this is by looking for one that has both of these features built into it.
4. Failing to ask for feedback from users
It’s important to ask how users feel about the new software and what they did and didn’t like.
This way, you’ll be able to make changes if needed or ensure that the new software is doing better than the previous one.
5. Failing to customise the system for their needs
It’s crucial to customise the new software for your specific needs. Otherwise, you’ll never be able to make full use of it and this can lead to dissatisfaction with the software down the road.
6. Not testing the software before going live
You might be tempted to go live with the new software right away, but it’s important to test it first. If there are problems, you want to be sure they’re fixed before going live.
Typically, we recommend establishing two or three well-defined testing cycles. Once each cycle is complete, your consultant can help you identify the major issues that need to be worked on.
7. Not documenting what they did to get ready for the software switchover
It’s important to document what you’ve done before the switch over.
This way, if there are problems with the software and it doesn’t work as expected or as promised, then you’ll be able to trace back and fix what needs fixing.
In other words, documenting provides you with a clear record of what you did so that you can make changes if needed.
8. Not taking a complete inventory of their current accounting processes
It’s important to go through your current accounting processes before the switchover so that you’re aware of how your team has been doing things.
This gives you the chance to make adjustments and prepare for how things will change.
9. Not prioritising how and where they’ll make changes in line with new product features
When you’re using an older version of accounting software, it’s a good idea to figure out what different features are used and then prioritize which should be changed first. By doing this, you’ll be able to make changes faster while also avoiding mistakes.
10. Not working with a professional implementation team
To make the software implementation process a lot smoother and to avoid making any mistakes, it’s important that you work with a professional implementation team.
These people have the experience needed to make your new software worth the while and to give you the best return on your software investment.
Working closely with a professional implementation team. This will help you make changes more quickly and smoothly as well as ensure your employees are trained in how to use it effectively.
Get in touch with an experienced team of accounting software solution providers to discuss your organisation’s financial management future.
