MYOB LiveAccounts is an easy-to-use online accounting software for sole traders, startups and very small businesses. LiveAccounts, released in August 2010, is MYOB’s first cloud-based accounting solution and is an entry level product with a reduced range of functions designed for micro business. This lightweight solution allows you to manage your business’s finances remotely from anywhere you have access to the Internet.

MYOB LiveAccounts’ lets you store your business data on a remote server, making it easy to share information. This information is always up to date and readily accessible. The result can be increased productivity and an overall streamline of operations.

Thanks to cloud computing, your software and data is stored on a centralized server, so you can keep all of your records and conduct all of your functions in one place over the Internet. This helps you stay up to date with the latest applications easily and encourages collaboration among your staff members, wherever they may be. MYOB’s CEO, Tim Reed commented, “Desktop applications can be richer and more rewarding to users if they are connected through the cloud.”

About MYOB
MYOB, acquired by Bain Capital in August 2011, started out over 20 years ago with the goal of making business life easier. The organization has over 1000 MYOB Consultants in Australia, assists over one million businesses in Australia and New Zealand and offers over 100 different products and services. These products and services range from cloud-based solutions to client relationship management software.

MYOB LiveAccounts is only one facet of MYOB’s Business Platform Cloud service. The company also produces MYOB AccountRight software, which is an accounting solution designed for larger businesses. It is planned that MYOB AccountRight will join MYOB LiveAccounts as part of its MYOB Business Platform Cloud services. According to Reed, “ … technology never stands still.” For its continued growth, MYOB remains focused on the local market and is committed to investing in the company’s platforms. It plans to spend $100 million for further research and development, hoping to maintain position as an important player in the shift to Cloud Accounting and to stay ahead of the curve.

Currently, the company employs over 350 software developers with the goal to hire more in the near future. At present, over 700 third-party developers and 350 web designers are accredited to work for the organization. The future appears promising.

Features
MYOB LiveAccounts is made to be user friendly. Its clean, intuitive interface allows you to perform basic business functions with ease. It is a lightweight application which is targeted at owners who need a simple accounting program which can be accessed online. With the lightweight design and the cloud approach, it can run on virtually any machine, and it is currently integrated with over 100 financial institutions in Australia and New Zealand.

MYOB LiveAccounts allows you to raise invoices, track expenses, pay employees, and manage your GST online. Automatic bank feeds are updated daily directly within the application to ensure accurate reporting. The software also provides the benefit of an integrated payroll solution, which can calculate the income tax and superannuation contributions for your employees. LiveAccounts can factor in any pre or post tax additions and deductions like bonuses and child support too.

MYOB LiveAccount’s main competitors are Australian-based Saasu and New Zealand-based Xero. For the most recent side-by-side comparison, see this table from Bates Cosgrave Chartered Accountants and this one from Sassu.

To view and assess the features MYOB also offer a free 30 day trial.

Add-Ons
Currently, LiveAccounts does not integrate with other applications. MYOB’s research and development budget is geared toward creating additional online services, accounting service extensions, Smartphone and Tablet apps, and third party applications. Funds will also go towards advancing integration with other MYOB products. The upgrade is scheduled for completion by the end of 2012. New innovations that are planned for future development include adding the ability to scan receipts using a camera phone.

Security
MYOB LiveAccounts is a secure software package. Your information will be handled using proper procedures and you can be assured that it will be maintained with the utmost in safety in mind.

MYOB LiveAccounts data is stored on servers in Australia, which benefit businesses worried about data stored offshore. MYOB insists that they use best practice standards to ensure your information is highly protected and backed up.

Costs
MYOB LiveAccounts is competitively priced with established players Saasu (founded in 2000) and Xero (founded in 2006). MYOB LiveAccounts is $25 per month, the same price as Saasu’s “Pro” product and lower than Xero’s “Medium” product (priced at $49 per month). View the most up to date features and pricing information. Read the feature matrix carefully to determine its suitability for your company’s specific needs.

Time to get your Accounting sorted? MYOB is helping you to get your accounting sorted in 2012. Subscribe to MYOB LiveAccounts by 31 January 2012 to get your first month subscription free. Saving you $25. See MYOB for more details.

Purchase MYOB LiveAccounts
Want anytime access to your business records and data? Save time and money by moving your accounting to the cloud by purchasing MYOB LiveAccounts today from Red 2 Black Business Management (R2B).
R2B, a strategic finance and business management provider based in Cairns, Australia, is an MYOB LiveAccounts Advisor. Not only can it sell you the software package, but it can also work closely with you to define your Cloud Accounting requirements and to help you determine how LiveAccounts fits your company’s needs. R2B can also simplify your transition by helping you migrate data from your current systems to the new software. Contact R2B today for answers to any questions or concerns you may have or to start moving your Accounting to the Cloud today.