Using Accounting Software

6. Getting Started

If you are using software for the first time, or are radically upgrading your system, you will almost certainly have to change the way you do things.

Allow time to learn the system properly.

6.1 You will need help to get a system up and running.

• Your accountant can help you decide what you want from your accounting system. You may want to adopt the same system your accountant uses, for ease in preparing the year end figures. But check it will give you the management information you need. Your accountant can provide you with a 'trial balance' to get started. The best time to implement a system is usually at the beginning of a new accounting period.
• You need to decide who has access to the new system, and what measures you are going to introduce to maintain security.

6.2 Learning a new system takes time. Check the vendor can provide adequate support and training for you and your employees.

• How much training will you need to get up and running?
• Different personnel will need different levels of training.