The Commusoft Accounting Dashboard is a robust tool designed to streamline the transfer of financial data between Commusoft and your accounting software. By automating key processes and enabling payment reconciliation, it reduces manual effort, enhances accuracy, and simplifies bookkeeping tasks. This guide provides an overview of its features, benefits, and practical considerations for effective use.
Key Features and Benefits
The Accounting Dashboard offers a range of capabilities to improve financial workflows and bookkeeping efficiency:
Automated Data Transfer
Automatically transfers customers, suppliers, invoices, credit notes, and payments from Commusoft to your accounting package.
Reduces the need for manual data entry and minimizes errors.
Payment Import and Reconciliation
For supported accounting packages, payments entered into the accounting system can be imported into Commusoft.
If a matching invoice is found, the payment is automatically applied, reconciling the invoice and saving time on manual reconciliation efforts.
Broad Compatibility
Integrates with leading accounting software, including:
Sage 50 Desktop (Version 24.2+) – UK only; requires CSV import.
SageOne/Sage Accounting
QuickBooks Desktop (Enterprise edition) US only.
QuickBooks Online
Xero
FreeAgent
Kashflow
Nominal Code Mapping
Ensures accurate categorization of financial transactions by linking Commusoft’s nominal codes with those in your accounting system.
Guides are available to assist with setup for each supported package.
Real-Time Integration for Web-Based Systems
For web-based accounting packages (e.g., QuickBooks Online, Xero, SageOne), data transfers occur immediately after processing, ensuring up-to-date records.
Data Flow and Synchronization
Understanding how data flows between Commusoft and your accounting package is key to optimizing its use:
One-Way Data Flow
Data transfers from Commusoft to your accounting system but does not sync in reverse (with the exception of payments where supported).
Example: If an invoice is transferred to your accounting software and later edited in Commusoft, the edits will not automatically update in the accounting system. These changes need to be applied manually.
Customer Updates
For some accounting packages, you can enable customer edits to transfer changes like updated names or addresses from Commusoft to the accounting system.
This feature ensures customer details remain consistent between systems but does not apply to financial records.
Payment Import
When enabled for supported packages, payments added to the accounting system can be imported back into Commusoft. Matching invoices are automatically reconciled, reducing the need for manual intervention.
Regional and System-Specific Considerations
The Accounting Dashboard supports a variety of accounting packages with unique requirements based on system type and region:
Sage 50 Desktop: Available in the UK only. Data transfer requires manual CSV imports, as automated integration is not supported.
QuickBooks Desktop (Enterprise Edition): Available in the US only. While integration is supported, additional setup considerations may apply.
Web-Based Systems (e.g., Xero, QuickBooks Online): These systems allow for seamless, real-time integration with minimal setup requirements.
Best Practices for Bookkeepers
To get the most out of the Accounting Dashboard, follow these best practices:
Map Nominal Codes Accurately
Verify that all nominal codes in Commusoft align with your accounting package to prevent misclassification of transactions.
Review and Resolve Errors Promptly
Use the error notifications and dashboard to quickly address any failed data transfers.
Example: If a customer is deleted in your accounting software after being transferred from Commusoft, and an invoice is raised for that customer, the transfer will fail. Resolve such issues promptly using the provided error details.
Keep Customer Records Updated
Enable customer edits where supported to ensure updates to addresses or names in Commusoft are reflected in your accounting system.
Understand System Limitations
Be aware of the manual processes required for certain systems, such as Sage 50 Desktop, which relies on CSV imports for data transfer.
Familiarize yourself with the setup requirements for regional-specific systems like QuickBooks Desktop Enterprise (US).
Collaborate with IT for Setup
For desktop systems like Sage 50, ensure your IT department provides server access, resolves firewall or software compatibility issues, and assists with configuration.
Conclusion
The Commusoft Accounting Dashboard is a valuable tool for bookkeepers, offering automation, payment reconciliation, and seamless data transfer to supported accounting packages. By enabling features like payment import and ensuring proper nominal code mapping, you can streamline your workflows and maintain accurate financial records. While certain systems require manual steps or regional considerations, understanding these nuances ensures effective use of the dashboard and minimizes disruptions.
For additional support, visit the Commusoft Knowledge Base or contact our customer service team.