Why Businesses Are Switching from Access Dimensions
Access Dimensions has served as a go-to accounting solution for many years. But as business needs change, more companies are turning to modern cloud-based systems like QuickBooks Online. Access Dimensions is a desktop-based platform, and while it offers a wide range of financial features, it often requires a lot of manual work, IT support, and complicated navigation.
In contrast, QuickBooks Online offers accessibility, automation, and real-time updates. Business owners and finance teams can log in from any location, track their financials instantly, and collaborate with their accountants in real time. This isn’t just about convenience it’s about giving businesses better control over their financial data.
For startups, SMEs, and accounting firms managing multiple clients, QuickBooks Online offers flexibility and efficiency. It’s easier to learn, requires less maintenance, and integrates with many other business tools. The shift from Access Dimensions to QuickBooks Online is more than a tech upgrade; it’s a practical decision for long-term growth.
What You Gain from Migrating to QuickBooks Online
If you’re still using Access Dimensions, you may already be experiencing limitations in collaboration, remote access, or integration with other systems. QuickBooks Online addresses these pain points with a more connected and user-friendly experience.
Here’s what you’ll benefit from:
- Remote Accessibility: Log in to your accounts from any device with an internet connection. Whether you’re at the office, working from home, or on the go, your data is always within reach.
- Real-Time Reporting: Make informed decisions using up-to-date financial data. QuickBooks generates dashboards and financial reports instantly, removing the need for manual calculations.
- Improved Collaboration: Give your accountant, bookkeeper, or team members secure access to your financials without needing to send files back and forth.
- Automated Features: From recurring invoices to bank feeds, QuickBooks reduces the time spent on repetitive tasks.
- Scalability: Whether you’re just starting or growing quickly, QuickBooks offers features that scale with your business. You can add users, integrations, and tools as needed.
- Better User Experience: The interface is easy to navigate, even for non-accountants. This makes daily financial tasks much more manageable.
- Cost Savings: Reduce reliance on IT maintenance, server costs, and desktop software upgrades. QuickBooks is hosted in the cloud and updated automatically.
In short, making the move can help your team spend less time managing software and more time focusing on business operations.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Migrate from Access Dimensions to QuickBooks Online
Migrating your accounting system might sound overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. At eCloud Experts, we break down the entire process into clear steps, ensuring you understand what’s happening at each stage.
Step 1: Initial Discovery Call
Before anything moves, we set up a discovery call with you. This isn’t a sales pitch—it’s a conversation where we understand:
- How you currently use Access Dimensions
- What features are most important to you
- What challenges you’re facing
- What you want to achieve with QuickBooks Online
This helps us figure out the best way to move your data, and what your QuickBooks setup should look like.
Step 2: Data Review and Pre-Migration Checklist
We review your Access Dimensions data carefully. This includes:
- Chart of Accounts
- Customer and supplier lists
- Invoices and bills
- Payroll records (if applicable)
- VAT setup and submissions
- Historical transactions
Our team checks the quality and format of this data to ensure it’s suitable for import into QuickBooks. If there are any gaps or inconsistencies, we address them before proceeding.
Step 3: Mapping Your Data
QuickBooks has a different structure from Access Dimensions, so we map your old data fields to the new format. This step is crucial to ensure your financial reports stay consistent after migration.
We take care of aligning your account codes, VAT settings, invoice numbers, and more. This allows your reports in QuickBooks to reflect accurate balances and transaction histories.
Step 4: Migration of Historical and Live Data
Depending on your needs, we can migrate just the opening balances or include full historical data (such as the past 1-3 years of transactions). Many clients prefer to carry over full history so they can generate reports within QuickBooks without going back to the old system.
We use a combination of tools and manual checks to ensure the data is moved correctly. Each part of the migration is verified, and we don’t proceed to the next stage until everything is reviewed.
Step 5: Post-Migration Checks
Once the data has been transferred, we double-check the following:
- Account balances match
- All customers and suppliers are listed
- VAT returns and submissions are correctly carried over
- Payroll figures (if applicable) are accurate
- Bank reconciliations are up-to-date
We compare reports from Access Dimensions with those in QuickBooks Online to confirm accuracy.
Step 6: Custom Setup in QuickBooks
We don’t just move your data we also help set up your QuickBooks account in a way that fits your business. This includes:
- Creating user roles
- Connecting bank feeds
- Setting up recurring transactions
- Installing useful integrations (e.g., payment gateways, inventory tools, reporting apps)
Step 7: Training and Support
Once everything is live, we provide training for you and your team. You’ll learn how to:
- Create invoices and record payments
- Track expenses and match bank transactions
- Generate management reports
- Prepare for VAT submissions
Our support doesn’t end at go-live. We offer ongoing assistance by the hour or through monthly support plans.
Real-World Example: A Migration Success Story
Case Study: SME Retailer with Complex Reporting Needs
One of our clients, a medium-sized retailer using Access Dimensions for over 8 years, approached us after facing recurring IT costs and limitations in remote access. Their finance team wanted to switch to a more modern platform without losing past data.
We conducted a detailed migration that included 3 years of transaction history, multi-currency support, and VAT reports. After moving to QuickBooks Online, their finance team reported:
- 40% less time spent on monthly reporting
- Better visibility of unpaid invoices
- Easier collaboration with their external accountant
They now use QuickBooks daily and haven’t looked back.
FAQs About Migrating from Access Dimensions to QuickBooks
Can I migrate everything from Access Dimensions?
Yes. We can move over your full data history or just your opening balances, depending on your needs. This includes invoices, bills, chart of accounts, VAT settings, and more.
Is QuickBooks Online secure?
QuickBooks uses bank-level security and automatic backups to protect your financial data. Only users with permissions can access sensitive information.
How long does the migration take?
Most migrations are completed in 1 to 2 weeks. Complex migrations may take a bit longer, but we keep you updated throughout the process.
Will I receive training?
Yes. We offer 1:1 and group training sessions, tailored to your team’s experience level.
What if I need help later on?
Our support team is always here. Whether you need monthly help, a one-off fix, or advice on using new QuickBooks features, we’ve got you covered.
Why Choose eCloud Experts for Your Migration
- We’re certified: Our team includes certified QuickBooks ProAdvisors and Xero specialists who understand accounting, not just software.
- We’ve done this before: We’ve helped dozens of businesses move from Access Dimensions, Sage, Excel, and other platforms.
- We speak your language: No confusing jargon. Just clear advice and real support.
- We support you long-term: We’re not just here for the migration—we’re your accounting tech partner moving forward.
Final Thoughts
Moving from Access Dimensions to QuickBooks Online can feel like a big step, but it’s one that pays off in more flexibility, better insights, and a system that works with you instead of against you. With the right support and planning, the move can set your business up for future success.
At eCloud Experts, we’re here to help every step of the way from planning to training and beyond.
Book your free discovery call today.
Let’s talk about your current setup and how we can help you move to a better way of working with QuickBooks Online.
Summary Table: Access Dimensions vs. QuickBooks Online
| Feature | Access Dimensions | QuickBooks Online |
| Access Type | Desktop-based | Cloud-based |
| User Access | Single-location | Multiple users, anywhere access |
| Reporting | Manual | Real-time, automated |
| Integrations | Limited | 700+ business apps |
| User Interface | Complex | Simple and intuitive |
| Updates | Manual software updates | Automatic |
| IT Support | Often required | Rarely needed |
| Mobile App | Not available or limited | Available on iOS and Android |
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