Automation, Apps, and Advice: What 20 Years in Bookkeeping Has Taught Me About Tech

Introduction

Back in 2005-06, I took a leap of faith and started using QuickBooks Online. At the time, cloud accounting was brand new—so new, in fact, that I remember working with a client all the way in Cincinnati, Ohio while I was based in Phoenix. The technology was promising, but let’s be honest: it was slow. Really slow. Sometimes it took over a minute just to process a single transaction! But being an early adopter came with its rewards. I’ve had a front-row seat to the evolution of bookkeeping tech—watching where it’s made incredible progress, and where it’s still got room to grow.

Embracing early cloud accounting—patience required!

The Early Days: Manual Everything

Before automation and cloud apps, bookkeeping meant endless stacks of paper, manual data entry, and a constant risk of human error. My workflow was slower, more tedious, and—let’s be honest—a bit more stressful.

Bookkeeping before automation—paper everywhere, progress slow.

The Rise of Automation and Cloud Accounting

As cloud platforms like QuickBooks Online and Xero improved, my work changed dramatically. Automation took over the tedious tasks: bank feeds, transaction matching, and even some reconciliations. I could serve clients anywhere in the country, securely and efficiently.

But it wasn’t all smooth sailing. There was a learning curve for both me and my clients, and not every new feature made things better. Still, my experience helped me adapt quickly, and I learned which tools were truly worth the investment.

Today’s bookkeeping—cloud dashboards, automation, and a tidy workspace.

What Tech Gets Right—And What Still Needs a Human Touch

Automation is fantastic for repetitive tasks, catching errors, and saving time. My favorite tools are those that handle the “busywork,” so I can focus on helping clients make smarter decisions. But no app can replace personal advice, real troubleshooting, or understanding the unique needs of each business.

Personalized guidance and real connection—still the heart of great bookkeeping.

Advice for Small Business Owners

With so many apps and automations out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. My advice after 20+ years:

• Choose tech that truly fits your workflow—don’t chase every shiny new tool.

  
  

• Balance automation with expert guidance.
  

• Remember, the goal is to make your life easier, not more complicated.
  

If you’re unsure where to start, I’m here to help you navigate the options and find what works best for your business.

Conclusion

Embracing technology has allowed me to serve clients better, faster, and more securely than ever before. But after two decades, I know that the best results come from combining the right tools with real experience and a personal touch. If you’re ready to make bookkeeping simpler and smarter, let’s talk!

If this intrigues you too, let’s chat! I’d love to hear your thoughts and explore how we can put the latest tech to work for your business. Reach out today—let’s see what we can do together!

Comment below or email askbrian@automatedbookkeepingaz.com