Do accountants really need cloud payroll software?

As you’re probably well aware, cloud technology has quickly become standard across the industry. In fact, it’s become so mainstream, accountants are starting to turn up their noses at solutions that don’t offer cloud functionality.

“A new software just released to help streamline my firm’s admin? Great! Let’s have a look.”

“Oh, I have to come into the office to use it? Scrap it.”

Whether it’s software to streamline your bookkeeping or manage your firm, the cloud seems to be the best way to go. However, for more specific areas in your practice, such as payroll, is it more beneficial to go cloud, or is it just as convenient to use your trusty desktop-based software?

Let’s explore if accountants really need cloud-based payroll software. We’ll break down some reasons as to why accountants may be content with continuing to use their current desktop solutions, and how the cloud could improve their current processes.

Process payroll from anywhere

Whether you’re at home or in the office, it’s convenient to process payroll from your PC. Just open up your computer, click on the app, and away you go. Take Bright’s cloud payroll software, BrightPay, for example, you can access your payroll files from an internet browser. That means from any device with an internet connection, you can process the payroll through Chrome, Safari or Firefox, in real time. All you need is a strong WiFi connection, your login details, and voila – process payroll from anywhere.

No more downloading the latest changes

When it comes to payroll, there are often updates that need to be made to the software to ensure you stay compliant with payroll legislation, such as a new Minimum Wage rate for example. With cloud payroll software, you no longer need to download the latest version of the software, the software will automatically update for you. This not only saves you time, it gives you peace of mind that you are staying compliant with the latest laws and legislation.

Get more collaborative with payroll

It can be convenient to see who was last working on a client’s payroll file when you open the software. It’s a nice reference point, like a digital sticky note, and keeps your firm’s workflow a bit tidier. However, when someone is currently in the payroll file, it can be annoying having to wait until they’re finished making edits to access it. This can be especially frustrating when you need urgent access to it or are on a tight deadline to finalise payslips.

While you can have all the patience in the world, as a busy firm, you need a solution that expands your existing capacity. That’s where fully cloud payroll software comes in. Cloud payroll software lets multiple members of your team work on the same client file in real-time. This means if your team are on a beach in Bali, hiking in the mountains or in a café in Paris, changes are made on-the-go, while they work.

Discover BrightPay’s fully-cloud payroll software

This content may have been developed with the assistance of AI tools. Content is reviewed by a member of the Bright team before publication. Guidance on legislation can be obtained from your industry body.