I have clients using QuickBooks for Mac.  I like to work from my office and they like to keep QuickBooks on their machine.  Of course, I can take control of their machine with any number of applications and do my work directly on their machine.

An easier, free method is to simply share the data file using a Dropbox.  With this method, each computer will have its own copy of QuickBooks for Mac and will simply open the data file stored in the Dropbox.

A caveat: The QuickBooks file can only be used by one person at a time.  If it’s open and in use by more than one person, you’ll end up with “conflicted file” copies.  I solve this by letting my clients know which days/hours I’ll be updating their books.

I just logged in to my QuickBooks online account and see that it’s true…QuickBooks Online is now available on the iPhone.  See the screenshot below.

~Kelly

www.acclaroaccounting.com

I have been searching for a time tracking tool that will take care of my simple tracking needs inexpensively in an easy to use format.  I find that when I track my time, I am more efficient and I bill more hours.  I tend to lose track of time easily through out the day, but a timer keeps me focused.

The requirements for my tracker were pretty simple: 1) Track time by client name and project, 2) Must have a timer and 3) Report hours worked by client for a time period.  Bonus points for tracking time with an hourly rate and/or QuickBooks importing.  After downloading a few programs and settling on one, my computer had to be sent out for repair.  That led to the final requirement – must be web based, so I can keep track of time no matter where I am or which computer I am using.

I stumbled across Toggl and have been using it for about a week.  The base version covers my essential needs and it’s FREE!  If you need more functionality (billable rates, customized reports), you can upgrade to a paid version.  The paid version is $19/month/workgroup.  So far, the free version is working great for me.

~Kelly, Acclaro Accounting