App integration problems? Maybe you’ve got the wrong app!

Do you think integrating third-party applications with your applications (like QuickBooks) is a problem? If so, perhaps, you are selecting the wrong applications…

According to AccountingWeb Contributor Seth Fineberg when it comes to integrating essential third-party applications with core platforms and software, “most users do not know what true integration is supposed to look like and are often disappointed…”

Choose the right applications

Seth interviewed Stacy Kildal, founder of Kildal Services, a bookkeeping, payroll, and technology consulting company who urges accounting firms and their clients to pay attention to the following:

• Does the application really sync? Or is it simply pulling information from your accounting software, or only updating select data?
• Is it solving a real problem and how does the data it delivers into the software or platform you are using?
• Is it taking advantage of the features available in your current accounting package?
• Can you access the tools you need to analyze the data entered into the app?
• Does it give you the tools and data to create the reports you need?

Take a test drive or demo

While Kildal recommends signing up for the app via the developer website and testing it without syncing, we’ve got a better recommendation. Check to see whether you can try the application before you buy it. Or ask the developer demo it for you.

“It’s not hard to test an app on live data,” she told Accounting Web. She advised accountants to “start a trial, test it with your data or your clients’. If you don’t like the app, just disconnect it and cancel the subscription. Do a few test transactions so you don’t have to edit or delete a bunch.” At Knowify, we recommend contractors to do the same.

Get it all right; not half right

Stop wasting time creating workarounds to get accounting software to work better. If you are an accounting firm recommending QuickBooks Pro or equivalent to your clients; or a QuickBooks Pro Advisor helping clients get the most of this application, simply recommend the right software.

If you’re a contractor using accounting software to help you run your business, make sure it’s designed for your business… not a manufacturer, or medical office, or…

Invest in the right technology

Really. Because technology (the right technology), can help you institute best practices and deliver complete transparency into hours, job assignments, client management, and productivity to ensure your projects stay on schedule and on budget. Imagine, running your business (or having clients running their businesses) efficiently, cost-effectively, and profitably. Win. Win. Win!

So how do you get there? Do your research. Knowify, for one, can help. We’re already helping accounting firms, advisors, and contractors integrate their business management needs with their accounting systems from an easy-to-use interface accessible from any device—in the field and in the office. If you have any questions or wish to share your feedback, you can find us at support@knowify.com.

Knowify. Built for the real world.