Guide to switching software and migrating data

When considering switching professional tax software, an ever-present concern for many accountants is dealing with a major change in their firm, and in particular, data conversion. Tax professionals know that they are the stewards of their clients’ data; ensuring a data conversion process that emphasizes accuracy, robustness, and speed for their firm’s software switch are the top concerns.

What is the often-whispered, yet seldom discussed topic in the area of data conversion? Support. While you are subject matter experts in tax compliance and advising clients, having a software onboarding expert working with you will better align the expectations for the firm and make the shift more seamless.

There are varying levels of support for Intuit® ProConnect™ Tax to meet the needs of firms of all sizes, while offering top-notch assistance. Let’s explore the marriage of guided support and the process of converting to ProConnect Tax.

Comprehensive support and training

Support from the software provider is crucial. A dedicated onboarding team can make a huge impact in smoothing the transition to a new software. Training guidance and responsive customer service can help you quickly understand the nuances of the new software without making it seem as if you are a junior accountant. This support goes beyond just getting you started; it includes continuous help to tackle any problems that come up and making sure your firm keeps things running smoothly.

ProConnect Tax offers onboarding and data conversion sessions for firms performing more than 50 total returns with their highly trained Easy Start team. For larger firms, a more robust level of support is available through the Professional Services team. These extra sessions allow the team to learn about your firm, optimize setup and integrations, convert data, and train the entire firm on their new tax preparation software.

Compatibility and integration

Another key consideration is how well the new software integrates with the systems you already have in place. It’s important  that it fits perfectly with other tools your firm uses, including document and practice management systems. This smooth integration keeps your workflow steady and cuts down on the time your team needs to get up to speed. Plus, being able to connect with financial institutions and other data sources can really simplify how you gather and reconcile data. ProConnect Tax has many powerful integrations, most notably with QuickBooks® Online Accountant, a direct connection that allows accounting firms to seamlessly and automatically pull all of their business returns from QuickBooks to ProConnect Tax. 

Advantages of cloud-based software

ProConnect is cloud-based, allowing users to access the program from anywhere with an internet connection. This is especially important as more and more businesses are leaning into remote work. Users can access the software from home, on the road, or any other location with internet access. In addition, hiring new accountants, whether seasonal or full time, is easier to do on a cloud-based platform. Your talent pool increases from only local options to anyone in the United States, whether you are looking for full time employees or just seasonal assistance.

Data security

One of the top priorities for many firms when converting data is to make sure all client information is safely moved. This requires a careful process in which the integrity of data security is paramount. Tax professionals need to look for software that uses strong encryption techniques and meets industry standards to keep data secure during and after the move. Doing this not only protects client information, but also strengthens the trust and reliability of the firm’s services.

Scalability and customization

Tax firms require software that can scale with their growth. Scalability is crucial, particularly for firms aiming to broaden their client base or expand their services. The new software should manage heavier workloads effortlessly without dropping in performance. Having customization options allows firms to adjust features to meet their specific needs, boosting efficiency and productivity. Starting in January 2025, ProConnect Tax will include free use of Intuit Tax Advisor, which allows tax pros to file client returns and automatically generate money saving tax strategies for their clients.

Cost effectiveness

The financial side of switching software is something you can’t ignore. While upfront costs are important, tax professionals should also think about the long-term financial effects. This means looking at how the software can cut down on manual work, reduce mistakes—that, in turn, lowers the risk of costly errors—and contribute to the firm’s bottom line.  When in doubt, see if there is a package that can bundle expenses together to give you a lower price tag.  Check out the ProConnect Tax pricing today.

Take all factors into consideration

Switching tax software is a significant decision that requires careful consideration of several factors. By prioritizing robust support, integration capability, cloud-based software advantages, data security, scalability, and cost, tax professionals can ensure a successful transition that enhances their data conversion and positions their firm for future success.

With solutions such as ProConnect Tax offering comprehensive support and advanced features, tax professionals can confidently navigate these changes and continue to excel in their roles as their clients’ trusted advisors.

Editor’s note: This article is also available in Spanish.