From Chaos to Clarity: How Method CRM Transformed a QuickBooks Desktop Conversion

Converting data from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online is a smart move for many businesses seeking enhanced accessibility and streamlined processes. However, it's not without its challenges. One common issue is the loss of certain custom functionalities, such as the ability to add custom columns on invoices. In this blog, we'll explore how Method CRM can solve this problem, allowing businesses to fully leverage QuickBooks Online without sacrificing essential features.

The Migration Challenge

Recently, I worked with a client who faced a significant hurdle after transitioning from QuickBooks Desktop to QuickBooks Online. Even though we vetted the workflows in QuickBooks Online prior to making the switch, they discovered that QuickBooks Online lacked the capability to add custom columns on invoices—a feature they heavily relied on to capture unique data points crucial for their operations. Their largest client (nearly 50% of their revenue), required this column. This limitation posed a threat to their workflow efficiency and data management. They were considering abandoning QuickBooks Online and switching back to Desktop and reentering the data.

Discovering a Solution with Method CRM

I was at the Intuit Connect conference when the client reached out, so I figured if there was a solution, I would find it here. I asked my colleagues, I asked Intuit directly, and I spoke with the 3rd party vendors. The answer was the same - it's not possible. I began to brace myself for the difficult conversation with the client. Enter Method CRM, a powerful tool that offers no-code customization capabilities. Method CRM seamlessly integrates with QuickBooks Online, providing the flexibility to create custom fields and workflows that QuickBooks Online alone cannot support. This makes it an ideal solution for businesses needing tailored functionalities. I had heard of Method from my days at Intuit, but I really didn't understand it at the time and frankly had forgotten what they even do.

Implementing the Solution

Working closely with the client, we leveraged Method CRM to reintroduce the custom column functionality they needed. Through Method CRM's intuitive interface, and included 1 hour customization call, we were able to design and implement custom columns on invoice line items, replicating the functionality they had in QuickBooks Desktop. This process was straightforward and required no complex coding, making it accessible and efficient. Method's bi-directional sync with QuickBooks allows the client to enter data in either system and it shows up in the other nearly instantly.

Known Desktop Migration Limitations

We know that the conversion from Quickbooks Desktop is not as "seamless" as the Intuit marketing would have you believe. There are quite a few feature gaps that could be real challenges when moving your data from Quickbooks Desktop that Method can solve for right out of the [cloud-based] box!!

• Sales Orders
• Sales Form Customizations similar to the granularity of the Layout Designer in QuickBooks Desktop
• Unlimited Custom Fields
• User Permission issues in Non Advanced Version of QUickBooks Online
• Emailing Limitations

Tip of the Iceberg

Method expands and augments the core features of QuickBooks giving the flexibility to do your work in whatever platform you need without worrying about double work. Additional functionality and features that are native to Method are:

• Additional Contacts that can be programmed to sent various communications (Billing/Primary contact/AP Clerks)
• Leads and Opportunities - Tracking prospects before they become customers
• Activities and Tasks
• Work Orders
• Cases and Support Tickets
• Documents/Pictures/Attachments
• Customer Portals

Industry Specific

Method CRM has two industry editions that are catered to the needs of these business types. These out of the box solutions solve many of the needs that these industry need all without disturbing the workflows in QuickBooks.

• Field Service Management - Businesses in the trades (Plumbing, HVAC, Landscaping) will have special needs for their Field Crew. Being able to dispatch and update the work orders without providing the potential outside access to the business information keeps the workflows separated without the permissions concerns & the cost of a higher tiered QuickBooks solution.
• Non-Profits: Donor statements are critical for Non-Profit organizations. with the ability to customize the customer portal, donors can log in, make a donation, and receive their statement automatically.

The Outcome

The implementation of Method CRM had a transformative impact on the client's business. They were able to continue using QuickBooks Online without losing any essential functionality, maintaining their workflow efficiency and data integrity. The client expressed immense satisfaction with the seamless integration and the ability to customize their invoices as needed.

Conclusion

Transitioning to QuickBooks Online doesn't have to mean sacrificing important features. With Method CRM, businesses can enhance their QuickBooks Online experience by adding custom functionalities that meet their unique needs. If you're facing similar challenges, consider exploring Method CRM to unlock the full potential of QuickBooks Online.

What Next?

If you're encountering issues like the inability to add custom columns in QuickBooks Online, reach out for a consultation. Method CRM can be tailored to your business needs. For more information, check out this resource on Method CRM and QuickBooks Online and set up a free trial.