Martin Aitken is a successful and expanding accountancy
practice in Glasgow.
Martin Aitken had been
long time users of the Taxsoft system and the Hartley system for
accounts production. When Sage acquired both companies in 1999 and
2000 respectively, the practice was initially pleased. It was
widely considered that the takeover would unite the software
packages and the 'ingredients' looked good for an evolving
integrated suite.
Partner Jim McInroy recalls "The process, however, didn't go
to plan and whenever we spoke to any colleagues about the problems
we were experiencing; they would just say 'We use IRIS'. We started
to think that taking the plunge and starting again would not be
such a bad thing, after all."
A strategic plan was laid down for the installation process
and IRIS was installed on September 31st 2001. Since installing
IRIS, one of the most important benefits to the practice has been
the centralised database. Previously, the firm was running four or
five main databases and countless versions of Microsoft Outlook.
Preparing the Christmas card list was a major exercise that started
in September.
The constantly
updated client database which sits at the heart of the IRIS system
ensures that client information is always accurate and available to
every member of staff. Ten senior members of staff have access to
the IRIS Practice Management program (PM).
Tax Manager, Richard Green particularly likes the instant
access PM provides to client information. He says "When I am on the
phone to a client, I appreciate the level of information available
to me. For instance I can see how much WIP has been accumulated and
it is helpful to know if any fees are outstanding. An informal word
about an unpaid bill will inevitably help the accounts department
in debt collection."
The integration
between accounts and tax is also producing significant time
savings. Richard said "Our previous system lost any integration
along the way and we were not getting any of the benefits of push
through."
Jim McInroy concluded by saying "The conversion process was
managed by IRIS with minimum disruption to the business – in fact,
the whole thing was completed two weeks ahead of schedule. We have
been comfortable with IRIS from day one and we have the added
benefit of knowing that many of our colleagues also use it and are
happy with it. IRIS provides us with the level of control we need
from a software system."
