Analog vs. Digital record keeping methods

by Melissa W. Content Writer

I recently approached one of the greatest entrepreneurs on the importance of record keeping. The first think he told was to embrace change. He said the world is changing first and we have to grow with it. In the business real, nothing works better that knowing what to expect. And the technology in record keeping has developed in quite amazingly.

Both analogue and digital record keeping methods are effective on different levels. Each of one of them has pros and cons that cannot be ignored. However, we need to relate everything to growing demands of modern business setting.

The best kept records are all about accessibility. In this case, you want to ensure easy and timely access every time you are making a reference.

So how do you choose the best record keeping method? Here are a few things to consider.

Easy to access

As a business owner you need a database from which you can access all your customer data. So ask yourself, is the information available when I need it and where I need it from? How long will it take me to get to the info? And does it cost anything?

Full shelves of paper files in your office may seem a pretty reliable source of information. But if you consider the time it will take to pull out a file and read it contents, or transfer, you will wish you had a computer. Saving such files on portable devices like Smartphones or laptops makes it much easier to access.

Ask for help

Sometimes the best way to get information is to ask for it. If you are just starting your business, there are many business discussion forums that will give you the info you seek. Consider the Xero business discussion community for instance. It offers you an opportunity to gain experience from what other share.

If you are new to technology for instance and are looking for the best accounting software, this is the community to get such knowledge. Just feel free to ask.

Personal experience

Sometimes personals preferences have better answers than anything else. Older folks will prefer to keep their receipts in a receipt book, while GenZers may find Receipt Capture app and similar tech better. Whatever is comfortable for you, it should be good enough.