Myths and Realities : Outsourcing Bookkeeping Functions

Outsourcing today has evolved as a powerful toolaccounting files back to the customer's server
which aids in the transformation of any conceivablesecurely. The clients then import the accounting files
business operation. However, there are a few mythsinto their accounting soft ware. Thus the possibility of
still present when one considers the different aspectsany breach of data security is ruled out.
while outsourcing bookkeeping jobs to a specialistMyth : Complex IT integration is essential.
company. But the reality has dawned, even thoughIt’s just a misconception that outsourcing requires
late, that it is absolutely viable for small businesses toocomplex IT integration. But just a server and internet
and presents tremendous possibilities in terms of costconnection will suffice. The service provider can use
saving as well as business strategies.Remote Servermodel to access client’s computer
Myth : Only big corporate houses can afford toto perform activities like Bookkeeping, Tax Returns,
Outsource.Account reconciliation etc. In the Secure File Transfer
Outsourcing the bookkeeping functions used to be themode, all the accounting records are transferred
prerogative of big business houses. With the winds ofsecurely from the client’s computer to the
change sweeping the world, small business too havevendor’s. The trend has risen sharply and more
joined the fray and are outsourcing their bookkeepingand more companies are increasingly outsourcing
functions in order to acquire increased efficiency andaccounting jobs and the sector is growing rapidly. An
profitability in their respective business domains.IDC study has predicted that the global market for
Companies with a full-time bookkeeper can savebookkeeping outsourcing services, which crossed $30
about $30,000 a year by availing bookkeeping servicesbillion in 2003, will touch $47.6 billion in 2009.
of highly competent and competitive service providersMyth : Bookkeeping when outsourced, induces job cuts
in India. By outsourcing non-core business activities likeand in the process harms the economy.
Bookkeeping to destinations like India, China andSmall businesses, by outsourcing their bookkeeping
Philippines, small business organizations .In thefunctions, are witnessing an increase in their business
developed nations like the US and countries in Europereturns and less processing time. Everyone, from the
can save substantially by taking advantage of themanufacturer to the customer and the governments
difference in the foreign exchange rates.accrue significant benefits. This is particularly more
Myth : Bookkeeping Outsourcing is not reliable.relevantfor small businesses, since by resorting to
No offshore service provider would risk their businessoutsourcing, they too can save money without
prospects by unauthorized use of accounting data ofcompromising on the quality side. This benefit can be
the client company. Using secure FTP soft wares,channeled for the purpose of hiring people needed in
offshore companies send the documents securely intoother operational areas to increase their production
the client server. Using customer-specified soft waresand sales. Ultimately, there is no significant loss of
the firm finishes the assigned tasks and send theemployment opportunities.