8 Common Misconceptions About Outsourcing Accounting Services

Gum stays in your stomach for seven years. Shaving makes the hair grow back thicker and quicker. The Great Wall of China is visible from space. You’ve likely heard all of these “facts” before. But did you know none of them are true? The same can be said for many commonly cited misconceptions of outsourcing accounting services. This article debunks eight of the most frequently cited “myths” of outsourcing services to help you see how they actually help deliver business growth and efficiency.

Myths and Info Covered in This Article

Outsourcing Means Business Owners Lose Control Over Their Financial Processes
Outsourced Accounting Services Are Costly And Drain Your Resources
Outsourcing Providers Have Hidden and Unexpected Costs
Outsourcing Accounting Services Invites Security and Confidentiality Concerns
Only Large Companies and Corporations Benefit From Outsourcing Accounting Services
The Quality and Reliability of Financial Reporting Suffers if Outsourced
Outsourced Accounting Services are One-Size-Fits-All And Can’t Be Personalized
Communication Constraints Are Inevitable When Working With an Outsourced Firm
So, Is Outsourcing Good or Bad?

Myth 1: Outsourcing Means Business Owners Lose Control Over Their Financial Processes, Leaving Them in the Dark

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Project Management Systems: Credible firms use advanced project management tools that give you real-time access to your financial data and updates so business owners and managers can always know what is happening with their finances.
Regular Check-Ins: Technology platforms like Teamwork, along with routine updates and meetings, keep business owners informed and involved in the financial process.
Implementation Support: Hands-on implementation and support ensure you maintain oversight and involvement in every step.

Myth 1 = Busted

Myth 2: Outsourced Accounting Services Are Costly And Drain Your Resources

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Savings on Salaries and Benefits: You save on full-time salaries, labor costs, benefits, and training for an internal team. And in many cases, sales teams, traders, etc will maintain costs and administrative accounting work related to their own projects. That is time taken away from profit-growing work. An outsourced team gives you all the same services at a fraction of the cost and possibly prevents the need to hire additional team members.
Flexible Pricing Models: With an outsourced firm, you’ll pay only for the specific services you need, making them more cost-effective.
Efficient Use of Resources: Outsourcing accounting services reduces overhead costs and maximizes efficiency, allowing you to reallocate resources to other areas of your business and focus on core initiatives.

Myth 2 = Busted

Myth 3: Outsourcing Providers Have Hidden and Unexpected Costs

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Transparent Pricing: Reputable firms offer clear pricing structures and cost transparency, so there are no hidden or unexpected fees
Contract Review: A thorough review of contracts from your outsourced partner is all that is necessary to understand all costs upfront and avoid surprises.
Cost Savings: Outsourcing accounting services often results in overall cost savings compared to maintaining an in-house team.

Myth 3 = Busted

Myth 4: Outsourcing Accounting Services Invites Security and Confidentiality Concerns

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Secure Servers: Outsourced partners store data on secure, encrypted servers to prevent unauthorized access.
Regulatory Compliance: Finance and accounting firms with proven track records comply with strict data protection regulations to ensure the safety of your information.
Strict Privacy Policies: Confidentiality agreements and privacy policies are in place to protect your data.

Myth 4 = Busted

Explore the pros and cons of outsourcing accounting services to help determine if partnering with a provider is the right choice for your business.

Myth 5: Only Large Companies and Corporations Benefit From Outsourcing Accounting Services

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Scalable Solutions: Outsourced accounting services are tailored to fit the needs of small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs).
Expert Access: Working with an outsourced accounting firm allows SMBs to gain access to high-level expertise typically available to larger firms.
Cost-Effective: Partnering with a dedicated outsourced company provides expert services without needing a large in-house team, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.

Myth 5 = Busted

Myth 6: The Quality and Reliability of Financial Reporting Suffers if Outsourced

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Dedicated Teams: Professional accounting firms employ dedicated teams focused on delivering high-quality, accurate, and timely services.
Regular Quality Checks: And outsourced firm performs continuous monitoring and quality checks to ensure high standards are maintained.
Client Satisfaction: Firms prioritize client feedback and satisfaction, consistently delivering reliable services. An accounting firm that doesn’t produce positive results for its clients simply can’t survive in a highly competitive market such as accounting.

Myth 6 = Busted

Myth 7: Outsourced Accounting Services are One-Size-Fits-All And Can’t Be Personalized

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Tailored Services: Many outsourcing accounting firms offer services tailored to meet each client’s specific needs and preferences.
Dedicated Support: Clients of outsourced accounting firms receive dedicated account managers who understand their unique business needs.
Customized Solutions: Outsourced firms develop customized financial solutions that align with your business goals and operations.

Myth 7 = Busted

Myth 8: Communication Constraints Are Inevitable When Working With an Outsourced Firm

Here’s the reality of the situation:

Advanced Communication Tools: Firms use tools like video conferencing, instant messaging, and project management software to facilitate seamless communication with their clients.
Transparent Communication: Outsourced accounting teams prioritize open and transparent communication, ensuring clients are informed and involved in every step of the process.
Regular Updates: Frequent communication and updates ensure everyone is on the same page, regardless of location.

Myth 8 = Busted

Master the art of collaborating when outsourcing accounting services with the helpful tips in this guide.

So, Is Outsourcing Good or Bad?

As with any service, the answer depends on who you choose. When you partner with Devine Consulting, you’re choosing a firm with 13+ years of experience, a client-first approach, and proven expertise. We offer comprehensive accounting solutions, including bookkeeping and reporting, financial controller services, and financial planning and analysis. Our tailored solutions, advanced software and technology, and dedicated support help your business thrive. With Devine Consulting, outsourcing accounting services isn’t just good—it’s an excellent solution for business owners who want to focus on growth and enjoy more time for what they love.

Industries We Support

Devine Consulting expertise spreads across many industries, including (but not limited to):

Remove the Burden of Number Crunching From Your Day-to-Day Operations With Devine Consulting

We’re proud of the reputation and partnerships we’ve built with clients throughout the Houston area and nationwide. For over a decade, Devine has been the go-to provider for companies seeking a collaborative partner focused on building their business and achieving financial goals. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how outsourcing accounting services can elevate your business to the next level.

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