Let’s face it: Tax season for accounting firms is rough. From handling an influx of client data to managing complex compliance regulations, there’s a lot that can go wrong. And when things go wrong with your IT, it can jeopardize both your reputation and your bottom line. That’s where accounting IT support comes in.
A good managed IT service provider (MSP) can take a lot of the weight off your shoulders but even with all that managed IT has to offer, many accounting firms still underutilize its potential.
Ways Your Firm Might be Underutilizing Accounting IT Support
How can your accounting firm really take advantage of managed IT support? Here are seven ways you might be underutilizing it during tax season (and how to fix it):
Predictable Costs
Definitely don’t take this one for granted. For accounting firms, budgeting is everything. When it comes to managed IT services, you should always have a clear understanding of what you’re paying for and what services are included in your package.
Access to Experts
One of the biggest advantages of working with a managed IT service provider is that you have access to a team of experts. So if you run into any IT issues during tax season (or any other time of year), you can rest assured knowing that help is just a phone call away.
24/7 Availability
Managed IT support isn’t just for when things go wrong. A good MSP will also be there to proactively monitor your network and prevent problems before they happen. That way, you can focus on what you do best and leave the IT worries to experts.
Heightened Data Security
Data security is more important than ever in today’s digital world. Since the start of the Covid-19 pandemic there has been a 300% in cyber attacks. If your accounting firm deals with sensitive client data, you need to be sure it’s well-protected. A good accounting IT support team will work with you to implement the latest security measures and keep your data safe from threats like malware, ransomware, and phishing attacks.
Understanding and Expertise in Compliance
With all the compliance regulations accounting firms have to deal with, it’s essential to partner with an MSP that has a deep understanding of the compliance landscape. An MSP that has experience working with accounting firms will stay up to date on the latest compliance regulations and help you ensure that your firm is in compliance.
Proactive Management and Monitoring
As we mentioned before, managed IT support isn’t just for when things go wrong. Accounting IT support providers will proactively manage and monitor your network to prevent problems before they happen. That way, you can focus on running your business and leave the IT worries to us.
Cloud Capabilities
The cloud can be a huge asset to accounting firms. It provides increased flexibility, reduces IT costs, and allows improved collaboration. Cloud computing allows your employees to access much-needed data from anywhere. It also helps to prevent the loss of valuable data.
How Solutions in Data Can Help Your Firm Today
If you’re not working with a managed IT service provider, now is the time to start. With all that accounting IT support has to offer, there’s no reason not to take advantage of its potential. From around-the-clock support to expert guidance on compliance regulations, a good MSP can make your life a whole lot easier during tax season (and all year round).
If you need help covering your accounting firm during tax season and beyond, let Solutions in Data help. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help your accounting firm.