Software Tools developer Peter Hool hosted an online workshop on Wednesday to introduce ExFiles DataLink, a remarkable utility that can save accountants time and money in preparing accounts - and much else.
The first release of ExFiles DataLink allows practitioners to import Sage Line 50 data from clients with a single mouse click and lets them map the information for their accounts preparation systems. According to Hool, Datalink should save an average of one to two hours of accounts processing time per client.
For the month of March, Datalink is available exclusively to AccountingWEB members at the introductory price of £50+VAT. To fully appreciate how this money-saving tool can streamline your practice, our online evaluation site provides a step-by-step guide to how Datalink works.
ExFiles Datalink grew out of the static ExFiles accounts data spreadsheet already available from AccountingWEB.
Hool told the workshop, "The core activity for most accountants is gathering client data, reviewing and adjusting it and reporting results in a variety of different formats, Statutory Accounts, Management Accounts, Tax and so on. Most accounting staff are a bit timid about getting involved in importing and exporting, DataLink de-mystifies the process by using easy point-and-click options."
Datalink is more than just a black box for massaging accounts data, Hool explained. It can become an administrative hub for managing all sorts of client documents within the firm. The system allows users to file and access any type of file and open them up from the Datalink browser.
Currently DataLink can produce a schedule of sample transactions and associated paperwork for audit purposes and is able to export data for management accounts, accounts consolidation, tax returns and other purposes. The launch edition handles Sage Line 50 data; other ledger systems and functional enhancements will follow.
The power of ExFiles Datalink comes from linking spreadsheet data to the Microsoft Access database, Hool explained. All the configuration work has been done for users. Those with a working copy of Access can download ExFiles DataLink directly from AccountingWEB, or a CD-ROM version of the program can be ordered with a free run-time licence for the database.
Order ExFiles Datalink online before 31 March to take advantage of AccountingWEB's introductory £50 pound offer.
* If you were unable to attend the workshop and would like to know more about how ExFiles DataLink works, or you have bought it and have a query about using it, ask for help on the Any Answers page and we will get back to you as soon as we can.
