Before I launch into my favourite systems and automation that have changed the way I work and live I need to preface with three key things you must do before you create any automation.

And I want to emphasize that systems, routines and processes are as powerful as automation.

Not everything needs to be automated - in fact automation can wreak havoc if not thought through properly.

I can’t stress enough the importance of backing up your cloud data and implementing 3 location redundancy

“Redundancy for the sake of redundancy was my salvation.”

In 2005 my business was in a building that suffered a fire, and it burned to the ground.

I was already on my way to internet-based file management but more importantly, I was practicing 3 location data redundancy.

It was my saving grace for having my business up and running the next day, and client files intact.

I run for no particular reason. Of course, it’s to stay in shape but mostly it's for the time alone, enjoying nature and the rhythm of my feet. Same with skiing.

You can imagine that I’m thrilled.

Ryan’s podcast from today is all about Accounting Communities and our fabulous collaboration.

“Accounting communities are a great place to share best practices, learn from others and collaborate with like-minded professionals. Below I share my favourite 6 accounting communities for modern accountants that I regularly frequent.”

And he put our Facebook Group on the list of communities to join.

I consider it our - the members and myself - group.

Zapier is one of the most versatile apps, and their blog is one of my “must follows.”

Building authentic customer testimonials is a key driver for increasing your business.

But it is no small feat. This article from Zapier is solid advice that you can action smoothly and quickly.

Enjoy!

The Sales Tax Module income often doesn't match the P&L income - this is not a news flash, but it can be a simple fix.

The trouble comes from how the tax codes track transactions to Line 101, specifically mis-use Out of Scope and Exempt codes.

Often a simple solution can solve a big problem.

The internet has been getting a workout; lately, that’s for sure.

::Understatement Alert::

Many of us are struggling with inconsistent internet service.

Sometimes it is the provider or where you live - there are many things we simply can’t fix about our broken internet.

But there are three best practices to keep your internet and computer running as smoothly as possible.

We’ve all become acquainted with Zoom.

Or Facetime, Go To Meeting, Google Hangouts, Skype (does this still exist?) - pick one - they are all of the same ilks.

Love them or hate them, the virtual meeting platforms will continue to be a prominent communication tool in our business lives.

It doesn’t take much to move your day from the monotony of mundane tasks and manual systems to the magic of efficiency.

By changing up your tech stack with three simple adoptions, you will find yourself thinking of your day as rewarding rather than busy!

“Stop overthinking. Just do three things.”

The short strokes of 17Hats is that this is a great program for lead vetting & follow-up (on-boarding and engagement), as well as CRM, calendar, project and workflow management.

I had a good bookkeeping life before cloud accounting technology rolled around. In fact, it was great.

Bookkeeper’s and accountants are at the forefront of advising SMBs. We are already trusted.

I meet a friend from University for a couple of beer a few times a year. We catch up on kids, business, spouses and then we always wind up in a discussion about ailments.