Billing System

Billing and invoicing system review criteria

March 24th, 2010

Jana

A new week has dawned and I am finally ready to begin the task of reviewing, rating and comparing the billing and invoicing systems on my list. I have, in my previous article, promised to knuckle down and review each of 80+ billing and invoicing systems I have found – but this does seem like a daunting task. It is fortunate then that I am driven by the need to discover which system will be best for the future success of my business.

I intend to do a full and detailed review on each of the systems before I start rating them in my billing and invoicing systems table. I have started to prepare for the review process by compiling a list of standard evaluation criteria. These include pricing, features, customization and technical, to name only a few.

I have listed the review criteria below – any suggestions would be welcome. I feel the list will provide a clear, easy to understand review of each system – that can be viewed in seconds and compared just as easily.

Firstly, I will be looking at pricing. Many great systems are free to use, while other charge a monthly or once off fee.

Billing systems in South Africa?

March 19th, 2010

Jana

After my mammoth post at the beginning of the week my little fingers needed a break from typing! But you will be pleased to know that I have recovered.

The ‘Around the world in 80 billing systems!’ article I researched and posted earlier this week contains approximately 80 billing and invoicing systems – plus a few payment gateways and some accounting software with invoicing capabilities. 80 systems – it’s a very long list! Seriously, trust me, when you are uploading, resizing and inserting a screenshot for every system on the list you realize how many 80 is.

What I found shocking though – while researching the list – was the fact that I could only find 4 billing and invoicing systems that seem to have been developed and/or marketed for the South African consumer.

Shocking! (Considering that over 60 % of the billing or invoicing systems on the list were developed and/or marketed for the US consumer and around 25 % were developed by and for the European market.)

Around the world in 80 online billing systems!

March 16th, 2010

Jana

The world of online billing systems has proved to have a lot more breadth and depth than I had ever imagined. With hundreds of billing and online invoicing systems to choose from I have my work cut out for me if I am going to find the ultimate online billing system.

After a bit of sleuthing online – some helpful referrals from colleagues and several handy comments on my forum thread, I have compiled a list of approx 80 billing/invoicing systems that I would like to road test and review before making my final decision.

Each system has its own unique focus and strengths ranging from service provisioning , time tracking, accounting and tax related features, client management, multiple user orientated, added legal templates, branding and design orientated and many more.

Most of the systems contained in the list below are true online billing/invoicing systems, but I have included some download and install options for those who do not want a ‘ready-hosted’ system. I have also added a few payment gateways and accounting systems that allow for the creation and issuing of invoices, but lack the full range of features present in an recurring billing system, due to the fact that many of them are extremely fast to use and signup in many cases is free.

I have added my full list of systems below – each with a brief description. It is my mission to review each online billing and invoicing system in detail over the next few weeks, providing easy to interpret, comparable data on each system – including pricing, features, ease of use and unique functionality. I’ll also be compiling short-lists for best systems and opening a poll shortly so you can vote for your favorite. But for now, read on and marvel at the sheer range and diversity of systems! (The list below is also a great resource for those of you who would like to do your own research into billing and invoicing systems).

Where do I find a billing system?

March 11th, 2010

Jana

The search begins: Where do I find a billing system?

In my previous post I have (at length) identified the key qualities that I look for in a billing system – and a husband for that matter. To recap, I am looking for a billing system (and husband) that can offer me all of the following:

Efficiency
Security
Support
Affordability
Ease of use
Automation
Full integration with my brand
Longevity
Accessibility
Comprehensive features

So now that I know what I want, I can find out where to start looking (that is the theory anyway). I have already identified that an online billing system may be the best option as it would allow me to access my information from any web enabled device – integrating perfectly with my lifestyle – or billing style. So the logical and easiest option in my opinion would be to begin my search online. I have also resolved that I will try keep my search local. If I can find a locally developed(meaning Southern Africa) billing system the situation will be ideal, if not then the system needs to have exemplary local connections and support.

What do I look for in a billing system?

March 9th, 2010

Jana

Single white female seeks unattached billing system for long term secure relationship. Must be low maintenance, supportive, efficient, affordable and enjoy cocktails and long walks on the beach.

In my musings I have imagined that my search for a billing system is much like the search that all of us undertake to find the perfect partner.

Before you scoff at my grandiose comparison, let me explain: Let’s imagine that, like me, you are single and looking. Before you can begin your search for the perfect partner you need to identify what qualities you find most attractive in a prospective mate, no? The qualities you identify will act as a framework to assist you in determining how to go about your search, where to look for your desired partner and what to look for in them. For example, if you would like a conservative, frugal and reliable partner you won’t go looking for him or her at a trendy new night club. You will more than likely find yourself joining the local bible study group.

It is with this in mind that I have resolved to compile a list of qualities I will be looking for in a billing system – It is at the juncture that I would like to point out that I have decided to put a stop to my MacGyveritis – at least when it comes to locating a new billing system for my company. I have decided to limit my search to reputable, comprehensive billing software and systems only – no improvised ‘do-it-yourself’ options! – Now to resume:

When I began to imagine the qualities I look for in a billing system they seemed to parallel the things I look for in an ideal partner. I have compiled my list of ‘things I look for in a billing system’ below:

Welcome to the Billing Blog!

March 9th, 2010

Jana

Small businesses, billing systems and my ‘MacGyver’ complex

I’m a bit of a Richard Dean Anderson, that is to say, the resourceful, problem-solving MacGyver part, not the intergalactic alien portal using, Goa’uld fighting StarGate part.

Yes, I am a real ‘do-it-yourselfer’. This may have stemmed from the fact that I was exposed to high volumes of MacGyver reruns during my formative years or the fact that I have been afflicted, since birth, with a debilitating condition known as single-minded stubbornness. Armed with a paperclip, a stick of gum and a small ripe cantaloupe I can usually solve complex algorithms, jimmy locks on baddie hideout doors and generally fix, overcome and triumph over any problem that life throws at me.