Xero Archives — Method %

Xero bookkeeping automation: 5 workflows you need to automate

Kaci Carson — Wed, 05 Apr 2023 14:48:13 +0000

If you’re running a business of any size, managing bookkeeping can quickly become a time-consuming and often tedious task.

However, with the help of Xero and automation, you can simplify these processes and improve the overall efficiency of your business.

In this article, you’ll discover five Xero bookkeeping automation workflows worth implementing to save time and improve accuracy.

How does Xero automation improve bookkeeping processes?

Xero is a cloud-based accounting software that helps you manage your financial data, invoices, expenses, and more.

By integrating Xero with automation tools, you can:

Simplify your bookkeeping processes.
Reduce manual data entry.
Improve the accuracy of your financial records.

Xero can connect to your bank accounts, credit cards, and other financial institutions, so your transactions will automatically register in the software.

By leveraging Xero bookkeeping automation, you’ll have an up-to-date view of your finances to easily manage bookkeeping for your business.

You can also integrate Xero with various apps, including CRMs, e-commerce platforms, POS systems, and e-signature platforms.

Overall, integrating Xero with other software will assist you in improving the effectiveness of your bookkeeping, allowing for increased efficiency and preventing human errors.

What tasks can Xero automate?

If you’re looking for efficient and effective ways to streamline your Xero bookkeeping process, integrated apps and software are your best bet.

You can start by automating tasks such as:

Syncing transactions.
Invoicing and billing.
Capturing e-signatures.
Payment tracking.
Quote-to-cash workflows.

5 Xero workflows you need to automate

Here are five Xero workflows worth automating to simplify and speed up your accounting operations.

1. Syncing transactions

One of the most time-consuming tasks in bookkeeping is reconciling bank transactions. To automate this process, you’ll need to sync transactions to Xero from two sources.

The first source is the bank feed that contains the ‘payouts’ or amounts from e-commerce or POS platforms, such as Shopify or Square deposits. In this instance, the second source would be data directly from Shopify or Square.

A Xero integration like Amaka, for example, can pull data directly from the e-commerce or POS system and sync to Xero, automatically matching translations to the bank feed.

This integration, in particular, can also sync up to 12 months of data so you can catch up on any reconciliations you’ve missed.

2. Invoicing and billing

Creating invoices and billing clients can be tough to track without a system that collects and aids with this process.

With Xero’s invoice automation feature, generating and sending invoices to clients is automated. You can:

Create custom templates for your invoices.
Set up recurring invoices.
Automatically send reminders to clients who haven’t paid.

There are also integrations that let you sync bills and invoices from Xero to your calendar or Slack.

You can give access to other team members, clients, or your accounting professionals so everyone stays in the loop. This automation is invaluable in helping you stay on top of bills and follow up on unpaid invoices.

Another handy invoicing example of Xero bookkeeping automation is converting estimates to invoices with only a click of a button. This feature helps you prevent duplicate transaction documents and eliminates the need to create invoices manually.

3. Capturing e-signatures

For many businesses, capturing signatures digitally for important documents such as bills, purchase orders, expense claims, and quotes is a key process.

Through Amaka’s free DocuSign + Xero integration, you can automate the document execution process. This integration will automatically fetch documents from Xero and then transfer them over to DocuSign to be signed by the relevant receiver.

Once completed, the status updates automatically on both ends, and Xero will save a copy of the document as a PDF.

4. Payment tracking

Keeping track of client payments can be challenging, especially if you have multiple invoices with different due dates.

With Xero’s built-in accounts payable automation, you can see which invoices were paid, which are overdue, and which are pending payment.

Method CRM is an example of an integration that helps Xero users streamline their payment tracking process.

It offers payment gateways and even self-service customer portals where your clients can make payments anytime, anywhere.

This Xero integration also tracks both commission and payouts, so it helps you stay on top of your cash flow and follow up with clients who haven’t paid.

5. Quote-to-cash

The quote-to-cash process typically involves creating quotes for clients, generating invoices, and collecting payments.

This process varies from one business to another, but Xero users can use an integration like Method to automate every step of the workflow.With Method CRM, you can create custom templates for quotes and set up recurring invoices for regular clients, saving you both time and effort you can spend growing your practice.

Recap: Xero bookkeeping automation

Xero bookkeeping automation can improve your financial processes by reducing manual data entry and automating repetitive tasks.

Each of the workflows mentioned in this blog would typically take you or your accountant a significant time investment. But by using integrations for workflow automation, you can easily remain on top of your business’ bookkeeping processes.

Start automating your way to stress-free days with your free trial of Method!

Image credit: pressfoto via freepik

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Xero for contractors: All you need to know

Sarah Majumder — Mon, 27 Feb 2023 18:15:44 +0000

If you work in the construction industry, you know the challenges that come with keeping your finances and accounting in check.

Chances are, you’re working on several projects simultaneously, spending hours, even days on each. You deal with issues such as:

Having employees who come and go.
Payroll that changes on a weekly basis.

But with the use of proper technology, this can change.

This article explores Xero as an accounting software for construction contractors. Keep reading to understand:

Is Xero good for small business?
The key features that make Xero for contractors an ideal solution.
How connecting Xero with your CRM takes your business to the next level.

Xero for contractors overview

Image credit: Intuitive accountant

Xero is one of the most popular cloud-based accounting software. When it comes to Xero for contractors, it’s easy to use and less expensive than competitors such as QuickBooks Online.

One of its most notable benefits is that you don’t get charged for additional users with any of its subscription plans.

What also makes Xero for contractors ideal is that it includes a robust mobile app and suite of reporting tools, allowing you to see your business performance while you’re on-site.

Another plus is that Xero allows you to create and customize invoices quickly Xero also integrates with over a thousand different applications, making it easy for you to get the most out of your software.

How online accounting helps small businesses

Online accounting makes managing your small business finances simpler and more efficient.

Rather than losing track of disorganized spreadsheets, you access up-to-date financial information quickly through a software. Even better, through its integrations, you get to stay on top of scheduling your employees at all times without any stress.

The best part is that you don’t need to install any software on your desktop — all you need is an internet connection.

A good accounting software manages and automates tedious work so that you save time. With Xero for contractors, you get easy-to-use invoicing, automated tax returns, and online payment collection.

Is Xero good for small business?

With all the software options available, you may wonder, “Is Xero good for small business?”

Your business may start small, but as it grows, you need an accounting program like Xero.

It’s pricing plans aren’t based on the number of employees, so it’s easy to accommodate the changing stages of your business.

So whether you’re a handyman starting out in your business or a project manager looking to grow your company, you won’t ever need to stress about additional costs.

As you scale your business and move into high phases of growth, you’ll likely require integrations and add-ons to keep things running smoothly. Xero connects with over 1,000 third-party apps, which is among the most of any accounting software.

What’s more, Xero keeps its interface simple and user-friendly to help you even if you’re new to running a business. It makes the most complex accounting information easy to grasp.

Xero features for trades and construction

Invoicing and quotes

Image credit: More than accountants

Generate detailed quotes from templates in minutes with Xero for contractors. Then, send them online to customers for fast approval.

Once accepted, turn your quote into an invoice within the mobile app or by logging into Xero from a web browser.

Once your job is done, customize and send professional invoices from your desktop or app.

Another benefit is that you won’t need to chase customers for payments anymore. Give them a gentle nudge with Xero’s automatic reminders.

Track project profitability

Image credit: Xero

Xero Projects allows you to manage your business projects and keep track of their profitability in real time.

Use the profitability dashboard in Xero Projects to get a clear view into the state of your project. The visual charts give a detailed breakdown of a job’s costs vs. the amount invoiced to your customers.

Xero Projects integrates with the rest of the Xero platform to make creating and sending invoices simple.

The profitability dashboard also tracks the time spent on each project, as well a link to quickly see which members of your crew is working on that project.

Budgeting

Image credit: More than accountants

Access built-in budgeting features in Xero Budget Manager and compare budgets against performance for different periods.

Once your budgets are entered for each month, generate comprehensive reports to get a clearer picture of your revenue.

For example, with the budget variance report, you see the budget and actuals for a specific period, as well as the variance in dollars and percentage.

With Xero Budget Manager, your budgeting tasks as a general contractor gets a whole lot simpler.

Integrations

Xero connects thousands of the most popular apps, so that you save time for what matters most — growing your business.

For example, its integration with Beyond takes your budgeting to the next level. It allows employees to see what’s important to them and create budgets in many ways including top-down and bottom-up.

If you’re a small business, building entire payment infrastructures to power your online business is just not feasible.

That’s why Xero’s integration with Stripe makes it possible for cloud-based businesses to accept debit and credit payments from your customers.

Do even more and improve your customer experience with Xero’s powerful CRM integrations.

How Method CRM improves Xero for contractors

When it comes to Xero for contractors, connecting to a CRM simplifies your construction workflows even more. It allows you to understand your customers through data-driven insights.

Use Method CRM to extend the power of Xero with:

Personalized workflow automation.
Email marketing capabilities.
Online portals for your customers to self-serve 24/7.

And you no longer have to jump between platforms as Method CRM integrates with popular tools you use such as Gmail and Outlook, making communication easier. Below is an example of how Method CRM brings the customer data you need from your CRM and Xero into your inbox.

Aside from communication, Method CRM, simplifies every aspect of your building process, from winning bids sooner to automatically creating quotes. Stop spending your time verifying data and re-keying information thanks to Method CRM’s powerful two-way sync with Xero. This feature allows you to focus on growing your business and closing sales.

What’s even better is that you get to customize your software to fit exactly to your business needs as you grow. And if you’re stuck, Method CRM offers incredible support systems to guide you. That’s why Xero users love Method CRM.

Bottom line: Is Xero the best accounting software for contractors?

Xero is your go-to cloud accounting system when it comes to running your business more efficiently.

But it can’t do everything. Maximize how Xero helps you run your business with Method CRM. It simplifies your workflows with capabilities such as:

Two-way, real-time sync with Xero.
Poweflow workflow automation.
360-degree view of customer data.

Xero for contractors FAQs

What size business is Xero suitable for?

Xero is suitable for all sizes of businesses, from sole traders to large corporations.

Xero for contractors provides a straightforward accounting system that makes it easy to manage on your business finances.

If you’re wondering ‘Is Xero is good for small business?’, the answer is yes. It provides the financial insights and automation you need along with a user-friendly interface.

Is Xero good for a construction company?

Absolutely! Xero for contractors is one of the most comprehensive accounting solutions for construction companies.

With features such as invoicing, payroll, budgeting, and project management it’s no surprise so many businesses in this sector choose use Xero.

It also offers best-in-class security, making Xero for contractors a safe and reliable choice.

What is the best software for a small construction business?

The best accounting solution for your small construction business is Xero. Here’s why.

The software gives you powerful features and automation capabilities. Its pricing plans are not based on the number of users, so rest assured that you’re costs never go up as you grow.

If you struggle with understanding accounting statistics, worry not! Xero has an easy-to-use interface, making the most complex information easy to understand. So is Xero good for small business? Definitely, yes.

Want to know how Xero integration takes your business to the next level?

Get your free download of our Xero e-book.

Image credit: Cherryandbees via Adobe Stock

The post Xero for contractors: All you need to know appeared first on Method.

Xero vs. QuickBooks for contractors: Which is best?

Sarah Majumder — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 17:48:58 +0000

As a contractor, you need to track your expenses and income. Enter QuickBooks and Xero — two of the most popular accounting software.

The two software offer similar features, including:

Tax management.
File storage.
Financial reports.

That said, these accounting systems have key differences.

In this article, you’ll weigh the pros and cons of each and compare and contrast their features to find out: Is Xero better than QuickBooks for your business, or vice versa?

Let’s get started!

Need an easier way to keep your QuickBooks data up-to-date?

Try Method’s two-way sync

Xero vs. QuickBooks: At-a-glance comparison

QuickBooks offers both online and desktop versions, whereas Xero only has cloud-based accessibility. So, consider how and where your team usually completes accounting or bookkeeping tasks when debating between the software.

Xero features a clean, user-friendly interface and has a more intuitive design than QuickBooks for accountants. That said, QuickBooks is designed to accommodate multi-user collaboration that will still align with users who don’t understand every accounting term.

Next, think about how many people need QuickBooks or Xero access at your company.

This is a key answer to the question “How is Xero better than QuickBooks?” Xero allows for unlimited users. QuickBooks Online has a cap of 25, while Desktop’s highest tier caps at 40. This makes Xero an ideal solution if you plan to have a large team of bookkeepers and other employees using your accounting tool.

However, 25 users is plenty for most contractors’ accounting needs. Generally speaking, you don’t want too many cooks in the kitchen when it comes to your accounting software.

Now, think about who will be using the tool.

If you need to track project profitability, Xero provides clearer reporting tools than QuickBooks. It lets you monitor project costs in real time and compare them to estimated profits.

Both Xero and QuickBooks offer these features for your business:

Payroll processing, bank reconciliation, and tax compliance.
E-commerce integration (if applicable) with data migration functionality.
Mobile app availability.
Data export options to analyze performance easier.
Security and data protection with frequent updates and maintenance.
A trial period or free version availability.

Xero

Image credit: Silicon Bullet

Users who review Xero recommend that this accounting software is more user-friendly than QuickBooks. They rank it highly for its minimal training and learning curve.

Xero has a smoother interface than QuickBooks and is preferred by more accountants than QuickBooks internationally. Not to mention, it offers international accounting support (if needed).

Xero’s ability to integrate with third-party apps like Method lets it offer good scalability to growing businesses.

Key features

Let’s go over some of Xero’s best features to determine: Is Xero better than QuickBooks for your business?

With Xero, leverage fixed asset management tools to stay organized and keep your work in one place. Xero also automatically calculates the depreciation of your assets. The best part is that you can run reports to see the value of your fixed assets at any time.

Plus, Xero Projects lets you get started quickly and easily.

Here’s how it works:

Create as many projects as needed.
Estimate your time and materials.
Send off a quote to your potential customer.

It’s that easy. From there, record your time on the job and turn that into an invoice.

To keep up with project costs, you can also add bills and deposits to a job. The best part: your invoices match any changes to stay up to date.

Next, let’s investigate Xero’s reporting capabilities. Utilize reports to manage your projects and see which jobs are making money and which aren’t. This way, you’ll apply more accurate quotes for future projects.

Finally, let’s explore Xero Expenses. Use this tool to instantly record mileage and capture costs by taking photos of receipts.

Xero then pulls all the key information into a claim to keep you informed on every expense.

Pros

Runs smoothly online, as it was built for the web.
Strong integrations with many applications.
Offers more features than QuickBooks for paying vendors.

Cons

The reporting function is complex.
Limited in graphic and visual charts.
Weak customer support without live chat.

Pricing

The following pricing plans are offered by Xero:

Early: $15 per month.
Growing: $42 per month.
Established: $78 per month.

Is Xero suitable for large businesses?

Xero is designed for businesses of all sizes, including large companies. Xero is able to serve the complex financial requirements of larger organizations, with:

Advanced project management features.
Inventory functionality.
Contact management tools.

However, Xero is not fully equipped to handle enterprise-level operations that need to:

Examine nuanced reporting and analytics.
Execute highly advanced industry-specific solutions (if needed).
Evaluate transparency across all levels of the company.

Enterprises generally prefer to adopt ERP (enterprise resource planning) services.

Is there a good alternative to Xero accounting software?

While Xero can perform many advanced functions, QuickBooks Online is still a favorite for business owners. It’s a powerful accounting system with strong user reviews and ratings.

You’d be hard-pressed to find accounting software that outperforms QuickBooks in usability. It is the most popular accounting software to operate in the US, with a strong vendor reputation and reliability.

Because of its popularity, QuickBooks has a large user community and forums. Users report that this resource frequently has a faster response time and provides better customer support than QuickBooks’ standard help channels.

QuickBooks Online

Image credit: QuickBooks

QuickBooks Online offers a cloud-based system that lets you simplify repetitive accounting tasks and processes. Its features and functionality are among the most powerful in the market.

Like Xero, QuickBooks features an impressive app marketplace with powerful integrations that enhance your workflows. Note that QuickBooks Online integrates with more apps than QuickBooks Desktop.

It’s an ideal choice for contractors, as you can:

Manage bills and invoices.
Track projects and miles on the go.
Monitor your financial health.

Get started with your free trial of QuickBooks Online here.

Key features

QuickBooks Online offers an impressive range of features to businesses of all shapes and sizes.

For one, it features advanced financial reports to give you snapshots of various areas of your business. For example, you can run reports on project profitability to see how much you’re making or losing.

Other reports include:

Budgeting overview.
Profit and loss by location.
Invoice and received payments.

Also, with the QuickBooks Online app, you can enable mileage tracking to record every drive. Your phone automatically detects that you’re driving and uses GPS to measure the distance.

Image credit: QuickBooks

It then stores your trips in one location for you to see your mileage details and tax savings estimates at any time.

You can also post your time and project records every day with the QuickBooks Time app. Whether you’re a contractor, handyman, plumber, or painter, the app lets you track time from any location using devices you already have.

This manages your employee time data for:

Payroll.
Invoicing.
Scheduling.

QuickBooks also lets you effortlessly capture signatures for project sign-offs using the app.Plus, all your QuickBooks Time data syncs to your account in real time, so your data is always accurate.

Pros

Easy to use and set up with many training videos.
The reporting feature is informative and easy to navigate.
The software is regularly updated with new features.

Cons

Difficult to navigate through past transactions for previous years.
The e-commerce plugin isn’t fully functional.

Pricing

QuickBooks Online offers the following plans:

Simple Start: $30 per month.
Essentials: $60 per month.
Plus: $90 per month.
Advanced: $200 per month.

QuickBooks also offers flexible plans for freelancers and independent contractors:

Self-employed: $20 per month.
Self-employed tax bundle: $30 per month.
Self-employed live tax bundle: $40 per month.

Who should use Xero?

So, is Xero better than QuickBooks for you? It’s ideal for contractors with fixed assets who need a lot of users at a low cost.

Its functionality as a fixed asset manager helps it differentiate itself as a top contender. Xero calculates the depreciation of your machinery, which lets you claim the proper gain or loss when you dispose of the asset.

If you’re on a budget, Xero offers many of the advanced features that QuickBooks Online does at a lower price. And if you’re working in a team, you can add all your in-house accountants or company partners to Xero for free.

Who should use QuickBooks Online?

QuickBooks Online is best for those in need of advanced reporting capabilities to drive performance. If you want live customer service, QuickBooks Online is also the right choice. For example, while Xero is easier to set up than QuickBooks, you need to email customer service or look to online resources to solve problems. QuickBooks makes it easy to talk to actual representatives.

If you want other QuickBooks products or a product suite such as QuickBooks Payroll, QuickBooks Payments or QuickBooks Time, this is also a good reason to choose QuickBooks.

If ongoing customer support is something you rely on, then QuickBooks is actually the better choice when asking, “Is Xero better than QuickBooks?”

Is Xero better than QuickBooks?

How you assess the question, “Is Xero better than QuickBooks?” depends largely on how you weigh your business’ specific needs.

Xero’s strengths lie in its:

Unlimited user access.
International currency support.
Dashboard tailor-built for bookkeepers.

It has a smoother interface design and slightly receives more positive reviews than QuickBooks.

After reviewing user feedback, our analysis has shown that users find Xero also updates more frequently than QuickBooks. It has a better mobile experience than QuickBooks’ app functionalities and is more cost-effective than QuickBooks.

However, Xero is only available online and does not offer a desktop option like QuickBooks. And both versions of QuickBooks have more integrations for you to implement additional features that you may be missing.

Despite the greater learning curve, QuickBooks is also designed for users who may not have an accounting background. Because of its popularity, QuickBooks has countless users who comment on online forums to answer difficult questions and create free online tutorials that you can study.

When you integrate Xero or QuickBooks with a third-party platform like Method, neither option:

Is more customizable.
Provides clearer reporting tools.
Is easier to set up.
Is more secure.

You can compare and critique these pros and cons to answer: Is Xero better than QuickBooks, or is QuickBooks the better fit for my company?

Online payments, automated leads, and customer management?

See how Method does it all

Xero vs. QuickBooks for contractors: What to look for

Invoicing

As a contractor, reliable invoicing features are crucial.

Whether you choose Xero vs. Quickbooks Online, you get reliable features to process invoices and quotes.

With Xero, you can easily create an invoice and preview it before sending it via email. That email also includes online payment options to keep your cash flow strong.

With QuickBooks Online, you can update details about the client directly in the invoice, instead of navigating to their contact record. It’s simple and offers the option to add a card or bank account number to a customer’s account so you can immediately process the payment.

Inventory

Having inventory management (if applicable) for your company is important for profitability, as delayed or misplaced materials incur delays and unnecessary costs.

However, when evaluating Xero vs. QuickBooks Online, it’s important to note that QuickBooks Online’s lower-tier plans don’t come with inventory management. So, is Xero better than QuickBooks for inventory management? It depends on your budget.

If you’re unwilling to go for the QuickBooks Online Plus plan to get the feature, then you’ll be glad to know that all of Xero’s plans come with inventory management.

However, note that unlike QuickBooks Online’s inventory feature, you can’t set up reorder points when stock is running low.

Job scheduling

When making the Xero vs. QuickBooks comparison, consider the job scheduling features.

After all, the success of your projects — from allocating resources to managing finances efficiently — lies in proper scheduling.

QuickBooks Time’s job scheduling is a game-changer when it comes to planning and setting multiple schedules on the go. From your phone, you can add:

Clients.
Dates.
Times.
Alerts.

With Xero, you can view start and end times of your jobs, as well as project milestones in an interactive Gantt chart.

Payroll

As a small business contractor, you need payroll that’s accurate, automatic, and easy to use.

Gusto is Xero’s preferred payroll partner that’s integrated with Xero accounting. It automates:

Payroll taxes.
Deductions.
Filings.

Another benefit is that it handles payroll emails and pay stubs.

Image credit: Gusto

QuickBooks Payroll for contractors processes payments quickly and easily. It lets you:

Manage payroll.
Calculate taxes.
Make direct deposits directly.

It also includes employee self-service portals and direct deposit capabilities so you have more time to focus on your day-to-day, instead of on paying your subcontractors.

Integrations

When it comes to answering, “Is Xero better than QuickBooks?” be sure not to overlook the importance of integration.

As your accounting software is one of your core tools, it should integrate with all your other systems, including:

Your CRM system.
Your email applications.
Your project and time-tracking tools.

When debating Xero vs. QuickBooks for contractors, make sure you select the one that offers integrations with the tools you need.

How Method helps small business contractors using QuickBooks and Xero

Method CRM is a robust solution that manages your:

Accounting.
Sales.
Job details.

Its cloud technology and mobile access make it an ideal software for contractors on and off the job site.

The best part is that Method boasts a two-way sync with both QuickBooks Online and Xero. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

You only enter data once.
It gets carried through the workflow.
Information syncs appropriately to your QuickBooks or Xero account.

As a result, you save yourself from hours of double-data entry and tedious tasks.

Plus, you can turn your estimates into work orders and invoices in just a few clicks.

Overall, Method empowers you to focus on delivering great service to your customers, rather than managing paperwork. It has advanced customization capabilities and offers more automation features than QuickBooks and Xero do on their own.

Bottom line: Xero vs. QuickBooks for contractors

QuickBooks and Xero are both great options when looking at accounting software for contractors. They both provide attractive features at affordable pricing plans.

But is Xero better than QuickBooks? Your best choice really depends on your unique needs.

If you’re a contractor on a budget who’s looking to add a lot of users, then Xero is a better fit.

But if you need features such as advanced reporting or live customer service, then QuickBooks Online is the right pick for you.

Whatever you decide, expanding your accounting software’s potential with integrations like Method is always a good idea.

Xero vs. QuickBooks FAQs

Is Xero or QuickBooks better for small businesses?

Answering, “Is Xero better than QuickBooks or vice versa for small businesses?” largely depends on your industry and if you need to handle multiple companies. Both have advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to consider which features suit your small business best.

For example, QuickBooks Online offers more detailed reports and analytics than Xero does. This makes it better for businesses with complex financial tracking needs.

But how is Xero better than QuickBooks? It’s much more effective when you only need basic data to monitor your cash flow and profitability.

Another difference between Xero vs. QuickBooks Online is platform flexibility. Contractors who deal with multiple currencies will find Xero better in this scenario.

So, when deciding, “is Xero better than QuickBooks?” it really depends on your small business needs and budget.

Is Xero easier to use than QuickBooks?

Xero is generally easier to use than QuickBooks.

It has been praised for its intuitive user interface and ease of use, while QuickBooks Online offers more robust features suited for larger businesses. That said, both systems are accessible and learnable.

Ultimately, when deciding between Xero vs. QuickBooks, it depends on the complexity and size of your business. With either solution, you can access your accounts anytime and anywhere.

What is the difference between Xero and QBO?

When it comes to Xero vs. QuickBooks Online (QBO), one of the biggest differences is pricing. With Xero, you pay a flat monthly fee with three pricing packages to choose from.

However, with QBO you have several subscription tiers with varying features and add-ons.

For contractors dealing with complex financials, another key difference between Xero and QBO is the availability of industry-specific features.For example, Xero offers an extensive suite of features specifically designed for contractors, such as job costing tools and time tracking, whereas QBO’s offerings are not as robust in this area. That said, QBO offers more integrations and general accounting tools.

See how Method extends the limits of your accounting system!

Image credit: Shutter B via Adobe Stock

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10 best Xero CRM integrations for 2024

Shana Cesaire — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000

Xero is one of the most popular business accounting software solutions out there. With features such as up-to-date transactions and flexible reporting, it’s easy to see why.

But what if there was a way to make your Xero workflows more powerful and turn it into an all-in-one system for your business? Well, that’s what a Xero CRM does.

In this article, you’ll learn how a CRM enhances Xero’s capabilities and empowers you to accomplish more. Plus, discover the top 10 Xero CRM integrations.

What makes a great Xero CRM integration?

From lead capture to payment processing, a CRM optimizes your processes so that you do less work but get higher results.

The best CRM for Xero improves your workflows by:

Providing a 360-degree view of your business.
Giving you access to better data.
Automating your manual tasks.
And much more!

Several elements make a great Xero CRM solution. Let’s take a look at a few of them.

Synchronization

The best CRM for Xero is not just an external system that works outside your accounting software. Instead, your CRM should integrate with your accounting software to create a centralized platform for your business and facilitate the secure transfer of information.

Better yet, a CRM with a two-way Xero sync ensures that your data is always up-to-date and your team is on the same page (more on this later).

Native integrations

Your accounting solution isn’t the only tool your CRM should integrate with. The best CRM for Xero comes with native integrations with the tools you already use.

These integrations may include:

Email tools.
Calendar tools.
Payment gateways.

Additional features

Synchronization and multiple native integrations are non-negotiables when it comes to the best CRM for Xero.

However, you should also consider additional features that enhance your business operations, such as document management or lead capture.

Additional features that you should consider are:

Email marketing and lead generation.
Simplified estimate and invoice creation.
Time tracking capabilities.
Online customer portal.

Let’s explore the benefits of using a CRM for your Xero workflow.

The benefits of using Xero CRM integrations

The best CRM for Xero introduces new possibilities for operating your business. This results in several benefits, which include:

Saving time.
Increasing revenue.
Better customer relationships.

Here are some of the top benefits of using a CRM with Xero.

Connect all of your data

Accessing your data from one place saves you time and minimizes the chance of errors.

The best CRM for Xero allows you to swiftly pull up your customer’s data when needed. What’s more, a CRM with a mobile app lets you access your data wherever you are so that you never miss a beat.

Simplify your accounting

Using your CRM, you can connect Xero to your other tools to streamline your processes.

For example, let’s say time tracking is a main component of your business. If you choose a CRM with time tracking capabilities, your employees’ time entries automatically upload to Xero.

This results in time savings and more accurate payroll.

Enhanced workflow automation

As a small business owner, there are several tasks you and your team need to get done every day. However, when you rely on the manual completion of tedious tasks, your time isn’t used as efficiently as it could be.

The best CRM for Xero takes on the manual work to leave your team free to build relationships with your customers and complete revenue-generating tasks.

The right CRM solution automates tasks such as:

Customer service and communication.
Turning estimates into invoices.
Sending billing and invoicing reminders.

How to choose the right Xero CRM integrations

Now that you know how CRM benefits your business, it’s time for the moment of truth: Choosing from the available Xero CRM integrations.

This is one of the most important decisions you can make for your business, so it’s important to weigh your options properly. Follow these steps to choose the best CRM for Xero users like you.

Take a look at your business

When evaluating Xero CRM intergrations, the first thing you should do is understand the current state of your business and how it’s performing. Ask yourself:

Are you on track to reach your goals?
Do you have a hold on your revenue?
How well do you keep track of leads and customers?

How you answer these questions directs you to the right path for choosing a Xero CRM.

Figure out where you want to improve

Once you do an audit of your current business processes, you should be able to identify opportunities for improvement. This allows you to choose a CRM with features that improve the specific areas of your business you need help with.

For example, if you notice that you aren’t bringing in as much new business as you want, lead generation should become your priority. In this case, a CRM with features such as web to lead forms and email marketing capabilities is your best bet.

Compare your options

After deciding which features the best CRM for Xero holds, you’re ready to implement one into your business.

However, you shouldn’t make this decision lightly. Compare several Xero CRM integrations before committing to one.

The best CRMs for Xero users have a free trial period, so you can see which one is the best fit for your business.

When comparing your options, one of the most important elements to consider is price. So let’s talk a bit about that now.

Xero CRM integrations price tags

CRM prices typically range from free to hundreds of dollars per month.

The price of a Xero CRM depends on how robust of a solution you need. A free solution gives you the basics, but you risk outgrowing it quickly.

On the other hand, a more expensive solution doesn’t mean it’s better. It may have a variety of nice-to-have features but lack the key features that your business needs for success.

How we evaluated the best Xero CRM integrations

Below we detail the best CRM options for your small business.

Each of these CRMs integrates with Xero and offers unique capabilities that improve your business in different ways.

We chose the best Xero CRM integrations based on their:

Features.
Price.
Scalability.
Pros and cons.

It’s up to you to prioritize what’s important when evaluating a CRM, but you’ll find all the information you’ll need below!

Our top picks for the best Xero CRM integrations

1. Method CRM

Method CRM is the best Xero CRM for small businesses looking for seamless integration. This is thanks to Method’s two-way Xero sync.

Update information in Xero and watch it automatically show up in Method and vice versa, eliminating the need for double data entry.

But the two-way sync is just the beginning.

Method goes beyond a CRM by automating your workflows, empowering your sales team, and giving you the tools to deliver superior customer service, such as:

Lead gen forms.
Payment gateways.
Online customer portals.
Third-party integrations.

What’s more, Method CRM’s customization turns this Xero CRM into a personalized solution that’s tailored to your business.

You can customize it yourself or enlist the help of Method’s customization experts.

Pros:

Two-way Xero sync.
Unlimited customization.
Reusable email, report, and transaction templates.
Easily convert estimates into invoices in a few clicks.
Several third-party integrations such as Gmail, Zapier, and Outlook.

Cons:

Limited to QuickBooks and Xero users.
Only available in English.

Pricing:

Method CRM has three pricing plans:

Contact Management: $25 per user per month.
CRM Pro: $44 per user per month.
CRM Enterprise: $74 per user per month.

Method offers a free trial with no credit card required. Get started with the best CRM for Xero users today!

2. Spotler CRM

Image credit: G2

Next on our list of the top Xero CRM integrations, is Really Simple Systems.

This easy-to-use CRM grows with your business and extends the power of Xero. Really Simple Systems’s software focuses on sales, marketing, and customer service.

Some of Really Simple Systems’ features include:

Built-in email marketing.
Several third-party integrations.
Sales pipeline management.
Customization capabilities.

Pros:

Free high-quality user support.
The ability to pull leads from emails and forms.
Advanced customization.
Automatic email capture.

Cons:

No way of tracking calls or other activities for individual contacts.
No mobile app.

Pricing:

Really Simple Systems offers a “free forever” version of their CRM. Their other plans are as follows:

Starter plan: $16 per user per month.
Professional plan: $35 per user per month.
Enterprise plan: $55 per user per month.

3. Freshsales

Image credit: G2

Brought to you by Freshworks, Freshsales is a Xero CRM that streamlines your sales processes so that you can close deals faster.

Freshales gives you better customer insights thanks to features such as:

Near-unlimited customization.
Activity timelines.
AI-powered contact scoring system.

Pros:

Intuitive and customizable interface.
Mobile app with voice notes feature.
AI forecasting.
The choice between several currencies and languages.

Cons:

Lead generation tool only available with Enterprise plan.

Pricing:

Freshsales offers an introductory free plan. Beyond this, they have three pricing plans:

Growth: $15 per user per month.
Pro: $39 per user per month.
Enterprise: $59 per user per month.

4. Agile CRM

Image credit: Agile CRM

Next on our list of the best Xero CRMs is Agile CRM.

Agile CRM is a cloud-based CRM that integrates sales, marketing, customer service, and social media to create a centralized hub for your business.

Agile CRM optimizes your:

Customer reports.
Analytics.
Marketing initiatives.

As a result, you get a 360 view of your customers and gain insights on how to service them better.

Pros:

Gamification to improve employee efficiency.
Quick process for importing contacts.
Third-party integrations with social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn.

Cons:

Lack of on-demand educational materials for advanced features.

Pricing:

Agile CRM has a free plan for up to ten users. Beyond that, they offer three other plans:

Starter: $8.99 per user per month.
Regular: $29.99 per user per month.
Enterprise: $47.99 per user per month.

5. HubSpot CRM

Image credit: HubSpot

HubSpot combines the tools a growing business needs to provide a memorable customer experience.

Their software enhances all aspects of your small business by providing hubs that are great on their own but work better when used together.

These hubs include:

Marketing.
Sales.
Service.
Content Management System (CMS).
Operations.

Pros:

Offers a free basic CRM.
Educational resources available through HubSpot Academy.
A large app marketplace for third-party integrations.
Easy-to-use dashboard.

Cons:

Additional features are expensive.
Limited customization.

Pricing:

To start, HubSpot CRM offers a free version of its CRM, with upgrades available as your company grows.

From there, the Starter plan starts at $45 per month. This plan includes their marketing, sales, and service hubs with two paid users.

However, it’s important to note that HubSpot sells its software by hub or in bundles. Pricing depends on how many business tools you need, and the final cost can quickly add up.

6. Salesforce

Image credit: Salesforce

Next, we have Salesforce.

Salesforce brings your company’s workflows together to optimize your sales and marketing processes. They do this by using cloud technology to manage your customers, leads, vendors, and more.

Salesforce allows you to:

Track customer activity.
View reports and analytics.
Sort potential customers.
Market to customers through automated emails.

Pros:

Several integrations.
Advanced marketing and sales automation.
Extensive reporting features.
Support forums and a large customer community.

Cons:

Pricey.
Most customizations require assistance from a Salesforce rep.

Pricing:

Salesforce offers four pricing plans:

Essentials plan: $25 per user per month.
Sales Professional plan: $75 per user per month.
Service Professional plan: $75 per user per month.
Pardot Growth plan: $1250 per month for up to 10,000 contacts.

7. Pipedrive

Image credit: Pipedrive

Pipedrive is a good choice for small businesses looking for their first Xero CRM.

Their features are sales-focused and allow you to track your leads and customers better.

You can also take advantage of Pipedrive’s automation capabilities to trigger personalized email templates or the creation of a deal when a new contact comes in.

Some of Pipedrive’s top features include:

Third-party integrations with over 300 tools.
The ability to create and send invoices directly from your CRM.
Email and communication tracking.

Pros:

Simple drag-and-drop interface.
Easy implementation.
Third-party integrations with Gmail, Slack, and other business tools.
Option to add LeadBooster for custom chatbots.

Cons:

Limited customization.
Does not separate your leads from your contacts.

Pricing:

Pipedrive has four pricing plans:

Essential plan: $12.50 per user per month.
Advanced: $24.90 per user per month.
Professional plan: $49.90 per user per month.
Enterprise: $90.00 per user per month.

Pipedrive also offers a 14-day free trial.

8. Copper

Image credit: Copper

Your next Xero CRM option is Copper.

Copper is a good choice for Xero users who use Google Workspace to operate their business.

Some of Copper’s top features include:

Contact list manager.
Integrations with social media platforms.
Pre-built email templates.

Pros

Good integration with Google Workspace.
Has solutions for a variety of industries.
The ability to set up recurring tasks.

Cons

Lacks native integrations for email automation.

Pricing

Copper has three pricing plans:

Basic: $25 per user per month.
Professional: $59 per user per month.
Business: $119 per user per month.

They also offer a free 14-day free trial.

9. Skynamo

Image credit: GetApp

Skynamo is a CRM solution to manage your everyday business operations, no matter where you are.

What makes Skynamo a unique contender on this Xero CRM integrations list is that it is specially designed for field sales management.

Their mobile app is robust so that you always have your business in the palm of your hands.

With Skynamo, you gain:

Real-time reports.
Up-to-date customer information on the road.
GPS technology.
Live order capturing from the field for a streamlined experience.
Activities breakdown by team member.

Pros:

Full CRM functionality from your mobile device.
Made for manufacturers and wholesale distributors.
Automated sales analysis.

Cons:

Integrations are mainly limited to ERP and accounting software.

Pricing:

Skynamo does custom pricing, so you have to contact them for a quote.

10. Zoho CRM

Image credit: G2

Last on our list of the best CRM for Xero users is Zoho.

Zoho has tools to improve each of your workflows to increase efficiency.

They’ve added several new features in the past few years, including:

Zia, an AI-powered analytics engine,
Canvas, a drag-and-drop interface editor to customize the platform without a developer.

Zoho’s other features include:

Lead, deal, and contact management.
Customer journey orchestration.
Client portals.
Web templates and email campaigns.

Pros:

Extensive list of features.
Several communication channels to connect with your customers.
Free online video tutorials to help you get started.

Cons:

Limited customization.
With new features comes a few bugs.

Pricing:

Zoho has four pricing options:

Standard: $14 per user per month.
Professional: $23 per user per month.
Enterprise: $40 per user per month.
Ultimate: $52 per user per month.

Zoho also offers a 15-day free trial.

Xero CRM integrations FAQs

What can a CRM do?

The best CRM for Xero users transforms your business in several different ways. Here are just a few common functions of a CRM:

Track your leads and opportunities down the sales pipeline.
Simplify communication with your contacts.
Store and organize your customer and prospect data.
Manage your marketing campaigns.
Provide real-time insights into your business.

How to choose a Xero CRM?

Choosing between Xero CRM intergations can be a challenge. The best way to select the right CRM for your business is to understand your needs and where you want to improve.

Whether you’re seeking a better way to organize your data or want to automate your workflows, there’s a CRM out there that has the features to bring you success.

Make sure to try out your CRM before committing your money, whether by using a provider’s free version or starting a free trial.

Which CRM is best for small businesses?

For Xero users whose priority is automation, Method CRM is the best option.

Method’s two-way sync eliminates the need for data entry, which gives your team more time to work on revenue-generating tasks.

What’s more, Method is fully customizable, meaning you can build the solution of your dreams yourself or get one of their customization experts to do it for you.

What Is the most popular CRM?

Names such as Salesforce, Zoho, and HubSpot have become popular CRM options.

However, remember that the most popular CRM does not mean the best CRM for your business. These larger CRMs are also out of budget for many small businesses just starting up.

No matter your needs or your budget, there’s a CRM out there for you.

Wrap up: What is the best Xero CRM integration for your business?

If you’re a Xero user looking to enhance your accounting software’s capabilities, a CRM is the best way to make that happen.

Every business is unique, and so is every CRM. Finding the right one for your business takes trial and error, but the result will bring you one step closer to crushing your goals.

Looking to start your Xero CRM journey? Start your free trial of Method CRM today!

Image credit: Mikhail Nilov via Pexels

The post 10 best Xero CRM integrations for 2024 appeared first on Method.

Xero Archives — Method %

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