The cloud-based software offers various benefits over traditional paper-based accounting. Businesses that use paper records or spreadsheets can face difficulties viewing and accessing relevant information. It becomes even more challenging. Especially if an organisation has data stored in multiple locations. With the availability of cloud-based accounting, the information is always on-hand and easily retrieved. One such software is Sage online accounting software, designed for start-ups, small businesses, and freelancers. However, the different versions of Sage resolve accounting problems of a variety of businesses. 

The two most market-leading accounts packages of Sage are Sage 50 and Sage one. However, both the software are targeted toward different business types. Sage one is mostly known for very small businesses and sole traders. On the other hand, Sage 50 targets small- to medium-sized organisations. However, both of them are available online via the cloud and have a large number of users in the UK. Let us understand in detail both the software: 

What is Sage 50? 

Sage 50 is powerful accounting software that helps track sales, expenses, and profits and analyse business performance. It is a detailed desktop solution offering more reporting options and functionalities. It provides in-depth business reports which can be integrated with Microsoft Office 365 for backups, intelligent reporting, etc. It also includes stock control, sales order processing, purchase order processing, and project processing. In addition, Sage 50 allows users to download accounts on a mobile app. 

What is Sage One? 

Sage One, which is now known as Sage business cloud accounting. It is a cloud-based accounting and invoice management solution for small organisations. It provides accounting, project, compliance, expense, etc. With the help of Sage one software, it becomes easy to manage all the documentation and processes required in business payments. In addition, it offers integration with major banks and helps import transactions automatically. It is specifically designed for micro-level businesses providing basic reporting and helpline features. Sage one is a simple accounting package to produce profit/loss and balance sheets and smart invoices. 

What are the alternatives that can be chosen? 

Sage 50 and Sage one are both simple accounting software. They both cater to the simplest accounting needs of small to medium-sized businesses. However, if a business is looking for more advanced accounting software, Sage 200 or Sage Intacct are good alternatives. Sage online accounting offers Sage 200 and Sage Intacct as innovative and powerful accounting software in the cloud.  

Sage 200 was developed to solve complex accounting problems of small to medium-sized businesses. It is a highly customisable and scalable product initially launched under MMS. After that, it was rebranded as Sage 200 and is now known as Sage 200 cloud. 

On the other hand, Sage Intacct was launched as a cloud-based financial management solution and is now available in the UK, South Africa, Australia, and Canada. It was initially developed by Intacct Corporation and later on acquired by Sage. 

Conclusion 

The cloud-based accounting software is the most cost-effective option for resolving accounting queries. Sage online accounting is one such example that offers cost reduction, time-saving, flexibility, and easy access to its users. Small businesses can utilise such services and achieve better results in the long run.