For many businesses, technology is a crucial tool. And the same is true in accounting. Think cloud storage, artificial intelligence (AI) plug-ins, and software automation.
As such, it’s no longer good enough to be able to rely on your knowledge of manual financial management. You need to be a pro at accounting software. But since tech is always changing, the only way to ensure you’re always up to date with accounting software is to get accredited.
However, mastering the software you’ll need to use on a day-to-day basis isn’t the only reason you should get certified. According to recent research, accounting software accreditation gives you access to better jobs, which means more money, and better career growth.
In this blog, we’ll explain why – and how – you can take your finance skills to the next level with accounting software accreditation.
Understanding NetSuite and QuickBooks
To start with, let’s look at two of the biggest accounting software giants out there – NetSuite and QuickBooks. These software platforms dominate the industry in terms of number of users globally.
NetSuite
NetSuite accounting software is a cloud-based platform used by over 38,000 businesses across the world. It’s generally used by larger companies, as it is able to do so much, and integrate with many other systems. It is available as a software-as-a-service (SaaS) model. This means that to use the system, you’ll pay a subscription fee.
NetSuite is an all-in-one enterprise resource planning (ERP) platform that lets businesses control their finances (and a number of other add-ons, like customer info, sales, and inventory) from a single place.
With certification in this software, you’ll be able to master a range of accounting tasks vital to any business. This includes period-end close processing, fixed asset management, inventory reconciliation, accounts payable and receivable services, cash flow and budget management, and financial reporting.
As a bonus, by being able to use the software to the best of its capabilities, you can also learn to create customizations, like automation, developing financial procedures, and implementing NetSuite modules.
QuickBooks
QuickBooks is a popular option for smaller and medium-sized businesses, although many enterprises also use it. It’s best known for its bookkeeping software, but actually offers a range of accounting and finance solutions, like automation, payroll, time tracking and payment management. There are different versions available, with varying capabilities and prices, making it possible to choose the right option with ease.
Through the software, you can easily do so many accounting tasks. This includes bank reconciliation, journal entry and asset management, inventory adjustments, budgeting and forecasting, and tax preparation.
With the impressive capabilities of accounting software, the chances of a modern business not using them are slim to none. And that’s why you need to know exactly how to use them.
The importance of software proficiency
Accounting software accreditation will give you a number of important benefits. The first and most obvious one is hands-on experience, meaning you can work efficiently, and tick off your to-dos without too much frustration.
This ensures your work will be more accurate, helping you avoid costly mistakes that could impact your company’s future and harm your professional reputation.
Together, this means you’ll open up the path to adaptability, and career growth. You’ll be able to handle whatever is thrown at you at work, and go from strength to strength.
The Value of Certification
Not sure whether you need to get certified or not? In a nutshell, you do.
The primary value lies in the fact that certification can give you a competitive advantage in the job market. Accounting software accreditation validates your expertise and demonstrates a deep understanding of software functionalities. This means that you might find it easier to secure higher-level positions and increased responsibilities at work.
Being accredited will also give you access to professional resources, and a network of peers. That way, you can stay on top of industry trends and communication.
Finally, with the right qualifications in place, you will have the confidence to do your job efficiently. That means fewer errors and better productivity, which are attractive options for any potential employers.
Practical benefits in the workplace
Beyond the possible benefits to your career, accounting software accreditation can make your day-to-day job tasks that much easier and smoother.
To start with, you’ll easily be able to implement features within the software, including add-ons, while making fewer errors. That translates to being more productive, and having better time management.
With your certified expertise, you’ll also be better at solving problems that arise, including software troubleshooting and maintenance. By extension, this can go a long way in helping you identify accounting patterns and trends, to make better decisions and predictions.
Another crucial aspect to consider is that, as an accountant, you’ll likely be working in a team. With accounting software accreditation in your chosen platform, you’ll have a standardized knowledge base that can help with teamwork and collaboration. In fact, you could even use your knowledge to train and mentor more junior staff!
Finally, these qualifications also cover accounting compliance and security, which means that you’ll be aware of best practices, and how to stick to them. Together, all this can lead to improved confidence from your clients and employers.
But how exactly do you go about getting these qualifications?
The Certification Process
The first step in getting accounting software accreditation is to decide exactly what you want to study. For example, NetSuite has many qualifications to choose from, like administrator, user, consultant, or developer. Similarly, QuickBooks offers certification for Online, Desktop, or Advanced.
Once you know which studies to complete, you need a little practical experience. This requires spending some time getting experience in the software, so that once your training commences, it doesn’t feel foreign to you.
Then, you need to make use of the resources available to help you learn. This can be through official course material, third-party courses, or even supplemented by online tutorials.
Once done, you can prepare for the exam.
- NetSuite has primary certifications like SuiteFoundation, which covers the basics of the software’s features and functions. If you want to be an administrator, you’ll focus on managing and configuring NetSuite environments. Consultants specialize in implementing and optimizing NetSuite ERP solutions, while developers work with NetSuite’s SuiteCloud platform.
- QuickBooks exams generally cover a range of topics, because the system is a little more basic than NetSuite. This means you’ll cover software setup, managing lists, handling sales and expenses, and running reports.
The next step is to register and pay for your exam. Depending on what you want to study and where, the prices may vary.
Finally, you’ll take the exam. If you’ve passed, you’ll receive your qualification. Remember to maintain your accreditation through recertification to ensure you’re still able to use the software after updates or changes.
Long-term career growth
Retests can help you stay relevant in an industry where technological development means constant changes. Continuous learning doesn’t just signify your willingness to learn from employers; it will also help you with your career growth.
And this includes building up a network of like-minded professionals. For example, NetSuite certification will give you access to a LinkedIn group of certified professionals, while the QuickBooks ProAdvisor Program connects you with other accounting professionals. Through collaboration and knowledge sharing, you can ensure your skills are always well honed, and that you’re ready for any industry changes.
To hear more about how certification can benefit your career, schedule a Discovery Call with one of our CPAs.
The information presented in this blog article is provided for informational purposes only. The information does not constitute legal, accounting, tax advice, or other professional services. We make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability of the information contained herein. Use the information at your own risk. We disclaim all liability for any actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this blog. The use or interpretation of this information is solely at your discretion. For full guidance, consult with qualified professionals in the relevant fields.