Issue:
Client had been using QuickBooks for over seven years on 3 laptops and one PC, which involved a painful method of backing up to a USB drive and restoring onto each computer. He was unable to share resources and had individual printers connected to each laptop and PC. The Client was still using dialup for email and Internet access which was not shared so each laptop and the PC would download the email individually.
Goals:
- To network all technology within the office
- To purchase a router and arrange for ADSL to be connected to the office on behalf of the client
- To update QuickBooks to the current version of Premier to allow multiple users to use the one datafile
- Train each user on how to use QuickBooks
- Write procedures in consultation with the client and employees
Solution:
We decided to try and use the existing technology as much as possible. This involved creating a peer to peer network with the main PC acting as the server. We started by arranging for a local IT specialist to come in onsite, assess the existing technology and to create the network in a timely manner.
We researched the different ADSL packages available to the client and put forward our recommendations. Once a plan had been decided upon and ordered, the IT specialist was booked to come back, install the router and test the connection.
QuickBooks Premier was ordered and installed on each laptop and the PC. We then set about upgrading the datafile which was 7 years old. In discussing the file with the client, it became apparent that they had not reconciled the bank statement to QuickBooks during that time. The client decided to start a new datafile in the new financial year to start completing the bank reconciliations and therefore ensure his financial data was correct and able to be used for management decisions. This involved creating a training package for the owner on the various functions within QuickBooks which he had not used previously.
Technology Used:
QuickBooks Premier 2007/2008, ADSL, ADSL Router, Basic networking gear.
