Are you considering making the switch from online Quickbooks to cloud Quickbooks? If so, you’re not alone. A growing number of businesses are making the switch every day. But before you make the jump, there are some essential things you need to know.
Before switching from the online QuickBooks to the cloud-based version, there are a few things you need to do to ensure a smooth transition. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to safely switch from online Quickbooks to Cloud Quickbooks:
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Familiarize Yourself With the Cloud
Before making the switch, it is essential to understand the cloud and how it works. The cloud is a remote server that stores data and applications. This means that you can access your QuickBooks data from any internet-connected device.
There are a few factors you need to consider when understanding the cloud:
- Security: One of the main concerns businesses have with moving to the cloud is security. When your data is stored on a remote server, it is vital to ensure the server is secure. QuickBooks uses state-of-the-art security measures to protect your data.
- Cost: Another factor to consider is cost. The upfront cost of moving to the cloud can be expensive. However, you may be able to save money in the long run by not having to maintain an on-premise QuickBooks server.
- Reliability: When you store your data in the cloud, you must ensure that your chosen provider is reliable. QuickBooks is a reliable provider with a long history of providing quality cloud-based services.
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Consider Your Business Needs
Before migrating to the cloud, you need to assess your business requirements. This will help you determine your needed features and the required storage space.
There are a few factors you need to consider when assessing your business requirements:
- Business Size: The size of your business will determine how much storage space you need. You may only need a few gigabytes of storage if you have a small business. However, you may need several terabytes of storage if you have a large business.
- Business Type: The type of business you have will also determine your needed features. You may only need the basic QuickBooks features if you have a simple business. However, you may need advanced features such as inventory management or time tracking if you have a complex business.
- Number of Users: Your number of users will determine how many licenses you need. QuickBooks offers flexible licensing options that can accommodate businesses of all sizes.
Find the Best Provider
Many cloud providers are available, so choosing a reliable QuickBooks cloud hosting provider that meets your needs is crucial. When choosing a provider, you should consider price, storage space, and security factors.
- Price: The price of the service is an essential factor to consider. You need to ensure that the chosen provider offers a competitive price.
- Storage Space: Another factor to consider is storage space. You must ensure that the chosen provider offers enough storage space for your needs.
- Security: The security of your data is essential when choosing a provider. You must ensure that the provider you choose offers state-of-the-art security measures.
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Migrate Your QuickBooks Data
Once you have chosen a provider, you can begin migrating your QuickBooks data to the cloud. There are a few different ways to do this, so choosing the proper method for your business is vital.
There are a few factors you need to consider when migrating your QuickBooks data:
- Data Size: The size of your data will determine how long the migration will take. The migration can be completed in a few hours if you have a small amount of data. However, the migration may take several days if you have a large amount of data.
- Data Type: The type of data you are migrating will also determine how long the migration will take. If you are migrating simple data, the process can be completed quickly. However, the process may take longer if you are migrating complex data.
- Number of Users: Your number of users will determine how many licenses you need. QuickBooks offers flexible licensing options that can accommodate businesses of all sizes.
Train Your Employees
Once you have migrated your data, you will need to train your employees on how to use the cloud-based QuickBooks software. This can be done by hosting training sessions or providing documentation.
There are a few factors you need to consider when hosting cloud training:
- Number of Employees: The number of employees you have will determine how many licenses you need. QuickBooks offers flexible licensing options that can accommodate businesses of all sizes.
- Training Type: The type of training you provide will also determine how long the process will take. If you are providing simple training, the process can be completed quickly. However, the process may take longer if you provide complex training.
- Number of Sessions: The number of sessions you host will also determine how long the process will take. If you are hosting one session, the process can be completed quickly. However, the process may take longer if you are hosting multiple sessions.
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Check IT Infrastructure for Compatibility and Security
Before switching to the cloud-based QuickBooks, you should check your IT infrastructure to ensure that it is compatible. This includes checking your internet connection and firewall settings.
There are a few factors you need to consider when checking your IT infrastructure:
- Internet Connection: The first factor to consider is your internet connection. You must ensure your connection is fast enough to support the cloud-based QuickBooks software.
- Firewall Settings: The second factor to consider is your firewall settings. You need to make sure that your firewall is configured correctly to allow access to the cloud-based QuickBooks software.
- Compatibility Issues: The third factor to consider is compatibility issues. You must ensure your IT infrastructure is compatible with the cloud-based QuickBooks software.
Conclusion
Switching to the cloud-based QuickBooks is a big decision that should not be made lightly. You must consider several factors, such as storage space, security, data migration, and training. However, switching to the cloud can significantly improve your business if you take the time to assess your needs and choose the right provider.
