Web Based Software for accounting and bookkeeping

As an online accounting system Arithmo uses software that sits on the web itself. What exactly is web based software though? How does it work?

There are a number of terms for web based software. "Cloud computing" - "Software as a Service" - "Web 2.0".

We have all heard the phrases above: they are mentioned regularly when articles are written about the new wave of computing. But what do they mean? And why will it affect your business? How can it help you market your practice? The answer, although fairly straightforward, requires explaining.

As everyone knows, traditional software has limitations because it is installed on individual computers. This leads to major drawbacks when disseminating information and collaborating on work. Computers are isolated in effect - unless they are part of a network. Essentially, a central computer acts as a 'hub' with a series of computers connected to as if on the spokes of a wheel. This allows for more connections between the computers.

The web is in effect a huge network, except with a myriad of central 'hubs'. (This is technically inaccurate, but the analogy is useful.) This allows for connections between computers that are geographically and temporally distant, built on the infrastructure of the internet.

Our whole technology is built on the idea that computers are interconnected in this way. 'The Cloud' and 'Web 2.0' are merely a progression of this idea. The basis of the system has not changed radically.

Rather than software sitting on an individual computer, or in a closed network, it runs from a central point and is accessed whenever it is needed.

However, the way that structure is used has seen an almost revolutionary upheaval in the last couple of years. The advent of software such as Google Mail, Facebook, YouTube and the like have shown that we can interact with the web in ways we are only now beginning to appreciate. Cloud computing, Software as a Service, SaaS, is the next step in computer software.

It is gaining momentum as more developments are brought to the market. The model has many benefits - flexibility, ease of use, security and cost. These are being recognised as more businesses see the potential in using software on demand rather than traditionally installed systems.

Arithmo is at the forefront of this new wave of web based software, using the power of the internet to bring you an online accounting system that is flexible, constantly up to date and easy to use.

Try Arithmo completely FREE with absolutely no obligation.