At Flamingo Accounting we love Xero and will say as much to anyone who asks. If you want real time accounting information, accessible from anywhere, in a format that’s easy to follow and navigate, then there is no better choice out there.
We are Xero partners and have years of experience in guiding businesses through every aspect of Xero, from initial setup, to in depth training to ongoing support. If you are considering using Xero or already are, then we can certainly help you get the most out of it.
Below are our current top ten reasons why we think businesses should use Xero – although they can change as Xero often adds new features:
1. Real time bank information
Your bank information feeds directly into Xero from your bank so that you can reconcile daily. This enables you to see right away where you are cash wise, what you have going out and what’s due to come in.
2. Easy to access business reports
At the click of a button you have access to over 60 different reports on profits, cash flow, VAT and fixed assets, amongst others.
3. Accessible anywhere
As long as you have an internet connection you can access your data from anywhere, day or night – no more waiting to get in the office or log on to that one computer with the data saved on it.
4. Monthly subscription with unlimited users
Xero is paid for on a monthly basis, can be cancelled at any time, and allows an unlimited number of users on the same account – so no long term tie in or extra costs for extra user licences.
5. Automated invoicing and debt chasing
Invoices can be set up to be sent automatically to your customers, and if they haven’t paid within a certain time you can also set up personalised automatic email chasers, saving you a lot of time of in your sales and debt process.
6. Invoices and statements can all be customised and sent at the click of a button
They can be created using your logos, colours, set wording, and payment links so there is no need for expensive stationery or postage.
7. Tracking categories
You can create tracking categories so that you are able to report on the areas of the business that are most important to you. If you want to know what the profit is on each project, or which salesperson is bringing the most in, or which area of the country you do most of your business in you can get that at the click of a button.
8. Data is stored safely in the cloud
Your data is saved and backed up across multiple server sites so it’s never been safer or more secure. There’s no need for manual backups or software updates so it won’t use your server space and down time is minimal.
9. Smart phone apps
Xero has a free app that can be downloaded to your smart devices so that you can almost run your business from your phone – even before you get out of bed!
10. Great online help centre
Unlike some accounting software, Xero has a brilliant help centre available online 24/7 included within your monthly fee.
Features
Xero is very straight forward to use and understand, but like with any new system the initial set up is key. Bank accounts, tax rates, reporting dates and invoice details are just some of the things that you need to get right at the outset to make sure there is not a problem further down the line.
If you are moving to Xero from another accounting system then as well as the initial set up, you will need to convert from your old system, moving across contact information, existing account balances and tax information.
This doesn’t have to just be a data processing exercise, but is a perfect chance for you to spring clean your accounts system – getting rid of the contacts you haven’t traded with for a long time and the account codes you haven’t used in years. You can create the codes you need now, the tracking categories you want to focus on and groups of contacts.
Our bespoke training sessions are designed with you in mind. We have no set, rigid process to follow as we realise everyone is at different stages of their Xero journey, and has different levels of bookkeeping experience. Whether you are making the switch to Xero from another system or Xero is your first ever experience of bookkeeping, we can assist and tailor it to your needs.
We can do face to face training within London or Southampton, or via online webinar if you are further afield or struggle to have all your staff in one place.
Although Xero is very simple to use, some people are still more comfortable knowing that they have an expert on hand to contact, which is why we offer ongoing Xero support packages. These can be as bespoke to you as the training is, tailored for what you need.
You might only need our help for just the first couple of weeks whilst you get used to the system, or maybe until you’ve done the first VAT return. But, you may also want ongoing continued Xero support if you’re not a natural bookkeeper.