For many businesses in the modern world, IT has become central to the success of the company, and accounting is no exception. Technology has merged with traditional accounting practices to open up new doors for efficiency, accuracy, and security. For accountants, having secure IT support is a necessity, and we’re here to explain why.
What is IT Support?
IT support involves a range of services that help businesses manage their technology infrastructure, keep their data safe, and resolve any issues that arise. IT companies essentially keep systems running smoothly, secure from cyber threats, and implement new technologies that enhance efficiency and productivity. By offering their expertise, IT support teams can help minimise downtime and maximise the performance of the employees.
Cyber Security
Accountants handle highly sensitive financial data for individuals and businesses which is a target for cybercriminals. Ensuring you have effective IT support from experienced professionals will ensure you have cybersecurity measures in place to protect this data from breaches.
Cyber security is becoming more sophisticated, and accountants face risks from phishing attacks, ransomware, and other malicious activities. An IT support team can provide services like:
- 24/7 monitoring
- Pen testing and network vulnerability tests
- Security audits
- Cyber Essentials training
Data Protection
Data protection is one of the most important aspects of IT support for accountants. It involves protecting data from corruption, loss, and unauthorised access. Accountants deal with a lot of sensitive data like bank statements, financial statements, tax returns, and more, so it’s crucial that firms take security measures to protect against data breaches. Having great IT support can keep all this information safe through:
- Firewalls
- Antivirus software
- Regular system updates
Without proper IT support, you risk data breaches that could result in financial loss, damage to reputation, and even legal action.
Enhancing Efficiency
Accountants have a lot of data to manage whilst completing their work quickly and accurately. So, it’s essential they have up-to-date computer systems and software so they can access what they need quickly. A slow or malfunctioning computer system can impact productivity and quality of work leading to unhappy clients.
IT support helps accountants by maintaining efficient systems and ensures:
- System optimisation
- Troubleshooting
- Software management
- 24/7 support
By investing in professional business IT support, you can relax knowing your IT needs are in trusted hands so you can concentrate on growing your business and giving your clients the best possible service.
Good Remote Working Capability
Thanks to cloud computing, many accountants now have the ability to work remotely. IT companies provide accountancy firms with the tools and software employees need to be able to work from their homes while keeping their data secure and files accessible from anywhere at any time.
Cloud services are hosted by third-party providers and are accessible through the Internet. The cloud delivers many benefits for accountancy firms, including:
- Ensuring you have the latest technology
- Removes the need for onsite hardware
- Ensures systems work seamlessly
- Allows systems to be accessed at any time from anywhere
- Allows for flexible, more productive working
Although many business owners wonder if cloud services are secure, IT support ensures the best measures are in place to protect your valuable data and prevent data breaches.
IT companies can also ensure they can collaborate effectively even when working remotely. Services like video conferencing, unified communications messaging, and mobile and tablet access all contribute to productive and efficient remote working.
Good Mobile Working for Access During External Meetings
Accountants often need to access data and perform tasks while on the go, especially during client meetings away from the office. IT support companies can ensure good mobile working solutions to ensure flexibility.
With good mobile working solutions, accountants can:
- Update records
- Access reports
- Provide clients with immediate answers and services
IT companies can provide on-the-go solutions to ensure you have access to the right applications whilst keeping data synchronised and secure across all devices.
Compliance
Accounting firms, as you know, have many regulations and standards that accountants must adhere to. If these regulations aren’t complied with, it can result in legal action which can immediately damage your reputation. An IT support team can make sure your business stays compliant with these strict regulations to keep your and your clients’ data safe.
IT businesses can help improve accountancy businesses to become fully ACCA and ICAEW compliant and will stay up to date with the latest guidance.
Problems are inevitable when it comes to technology. However, with the right support, issues can be resolved quickly, or even avoided in the first place. IT support from a company with experience in helping accountancy firms can help you avoid data conflicts and cyber security threats whilst streamlining your work processes. If you’re in need of accountancy IT support, we can help.
