#virtual online bookkeeping

[accountsnextgen]

Unlocking Business Success with Professional Bookkeeping Services

In the fast-paced world of modern business, staying ahead of the curve is paramount to success. One of the most crucial aspects of a thriving enterprise is maintaining accurate financial records and ensuring compliance with regulations. It's no secret that bookkeeping is the backbone of any successful business, enabling informed decision-making, strategic planning, and sustainable growth.

The Value of Professional Bookkeeping

Professional bookkeeping services offer a myriad of advantages that extend beyond mere number-crunching. Accurate and up-to-date financial records are essential for understanding the Financial Health of a business, making it easier to secure funding, attract investors, and ultimately drive profitability.

By employing bookkeeping professionals, businesses can seamlessly track their expenses, monitor cash flow, and make well-informed financial decisions. This level of financial transparency provides a solid foundation for sustainable growth and minimizes the risk of errors and financial setbacks. A recent survey conducted in Victoria, Melbourne revealed that 85% of businesses that outsource bookkeeping services experienced improved financial accuracy and efficiency, leading to enhanced profitability.

The Impact on Business Performance

Consider a growing boutique retail Business In Melbourne that recognized the impending need for professional bookkeeping services. By leveraging the expertise of a dedicated bookkeeping team, the business was able to streamline its financial operations, gain valuable insights into its cash flow, and identify cost-saving opportunities. This not only facilitated better resource allocation but also nurtured a more robust fiscal strategy, setting the stage for accelerated growth and expansion.

Harnessing the Power of FOMO

The fear of missing out is a powerful motivator. In a competitive business landscape, the fear of falling behind can propel businesses to embrace the latest trends and best practices. Those who hesitate to enlist professional bookkeeping services risk being left in the dust, unable to keep pace with their more prudent counterparts, and missing out on crucial opportunities for strategic growth.

Why Others Embrace Bookkeeping Services

Industry leaders across various sectors in Melbourne consistently turn to professional Bookkeeping services to capitalize on the expertise and precision that these services offer. By outsourcing bookkeeping tasks, they free up valuable time and resources to direct toward core business activities, innovation, and client relations. In doing so, they effectively mitigate risks, reduce operational costs, and gain a competitive edge in their respective markets.

The Call to Action

In conclusion, the value of professional bookkeeping services cannot be overstated. Business owners and professionals in Victoria, Melbourne are urged not to overlook the transformative impact that expert bookkeeping can have on their enterprises. As we continue to witness the tangible benefits enjoyed by businesses that opt for professional bookkeeping, I invite you to explore the possibilities that such services could unfold for your success.

Medium offers a wealth of resources and insights into the world of professional services. I encourage you to explore the various perspectives and experiences shared on Medium, which can provide valuable guidance on embracing professional bookkeeping services to drive your business to new heights.

[outbooks-ireland]

Accurate books are essential for growing your business regardless of its size in Ireland. Mastering bookkeeping will help you to calculate profit margin accurately, prevent you from paying additional taxes, and more. A skilled bookkeeper will help you maintain accurate financial records while you can focus on more core activities of your business.

Discover the Time and Money-Saving Magic of a Skilled Bookkeeper! Explore How Expertise Pays Off for Your Business. Click to Learn More.

We offer a wide range of services at competitive prices for small businesses, bookkeepers and Ireland accountants with the highest level of service. Drop us a mail at info@outbooks.com or call us at +44 330 057 8597.Read More: https://ireland.outbooks.com/how-a-skilled-bookkeeper-will-save-you-time-and-money/

[bookkeepingproservics]

Mastering Accounting and Bookkeeping: Your Ultimate Guide

In today's fast-paced business world, efficient financial management is crucial for any organization's success. The backbone of this financial management lies in two indispensable pillars: accounting and bookkeeping. Let's dive deep into these essential functions and explore how they can propel your business to new heights.

Understanding the Basics

Before we delve into the intricacies, let's establish a solid foundation by defining these terms:

Accounting

Accounting is the systematic process of recording, summarizing, and analyzing financial transactions. It provides a clear picture of a company's financial health, making it easier to make informed decisions. Key components of accounting include income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements.

Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping is the art of recording and organizing financial transactions. It involves the day-to-day task of documenting income and expenses, maintaining ledgers, and ensuring financial records are accurate and up to date. Think of it as the groundwork that enables effective accounting.

The Role of Accounting

Now that we have a basic understanding, let's explore the pivotal roles these functions play in your business:

1. Financial Clarity

Accounting offers a bird's-eye view of your business's financial status. It allows you to track profits, losses, and expenses, providing a clear understanding of where your money is coming from and where it's going.

2. Informed Decision-Making

With accurate financial data at your fingertips, you can make informed decisions. Whether you're considering expanding your product line or cutting costs, accounting helps you assess the feasibility of these choices.

3. Compliance

Accounting ensures your business complies with tax laws and regulations. Accurate records are essential for filing taxes correctly and avoiding potential legal issues.

4. Attracting Investors

Investors are more likely to support a business with a robust accounting system in place. It instils confidence in your financial stability and growth potential.

The Significance of Bookkeeping

Now, let's shift our focus to the indispensable role of bookkeeping:

1. Organization

Bookkeeping keeps your financial records organized. It ensures that all transactions are properly categorized and easily retrievable when needed.

2. Real-Time Tracking

By maintaining up-to-date records, bookkeeping provides a real-time snapshot of your financial situation. This is particularly valuable for identifying cash flow trends and potential issues.

3. Business Growth

Accurate bookkeeping is essential for scaling your business. It helps identify areas where you can cut costs and areas that require investment for growth.

4. Auditing and Accountability

In case of an audit, thorough bookkeeping serves as your first line of defense. It provides a transparent record of your financial activities, demonstrating your commitment to accountability.

Conclusion

In conclusion, accounting and bookkeeping are the unsung heroes of business success. They lay the foundation for informed decision-making, financial stability, and long-term growth. By understanding and implementing these practices effectively, you can navigate the complex financial landscape with confidence and take your business to new heights.

Don't overlook the significance of these crucial functions. Embrace them, and you'll be well on your way to financial mastery. Remember, success in business is not just about hard work; it's about working smart. So, invest in your accounting and bookkeeping practices, and watch your business flourish.

[globalintegrauk]

Empowering UK Businesses with Accounting Services and Strategic Outsourcing

 In the dynamic world of business, where every penny counts and financial regulations are ever-evolving, mastering financial success can be a daunting challenge. This is especially true for businesses in the United Kingdom, where complex tax laws and stringent financial reporting requirements demand precision and expertise. Fortunately, there is a game-changing strategy that is transforming the way businesses manage their finances: accounting services and strategic outsourcing.

Unlocking the Potential of Accounting Services for UK Businesses

Accounting is the heartbeat of any thriving enterprise. It ensures not only financial stability but also compliance with the intricate web of tax regulations governing UK businesses. Professional accounting services, tailored to the unique needs of businesses in the UK, provide a lifeline in this complex landscape. They offer expert guidance on tax planning, compliance, and financial reporting, enabling businesses to stay ahead of the curve.

How Accounting Outsourcing Empowers Small Businesses

Small businesses and startups often grapple with resource limitations when it comes to hiring in-house accountants. This is where accounting outsourcing steps in as a catalyst for growth. By outsourcing their accounting needs, small businesses gain access to the expertise of qualified professionals without the overhead costs of maintaining a full-time accounting department. It's a cost-effective strategy that ensures precise financial management while allowing businesses to focus on their core operations.

Driving Success with Outsourced Management Accounting Services

Beyond traditional accounting, management accounting services is the secret weapon for strategic financial planning, budgeting, and performance analysis. Outsourced management accounting services provide businesses with invaluable insights. They not only save time but also contribute to business growth by pinpointing areas for improvement and cost reduction.

Enhancing Cash Flow with Accounts Receivable Outsourcing Services

A healthy cash flow is the lifeblood of any business. Efficient management of accounts receivable is pivotal in achieving this. Outsourcing accounts receivable services streamlines invoicing, payment processing, and debt collection. The result? Businesses receive payments on time, thereby improving financial stability and sustainability.

The Power of Strategic Outsourcing Solutions

Strategic outsourcing goes beyond mere cost reduction; it's about partnering with specialized service providers who bring expertise and efficiency to specific business functions. By strategically outsourcing tasks like accounting, businesses can amplify their focus on core competencies, leading to increased productivity and sustainable growth.

Simplifying the Complexities with Bookkeeping Outsourcing Services

Accurate bookkeeping serves as the cornerstone of sound financial management. Bookkeeping outsourcing services expertly handle data entry, reconciliations, and financial recordkeeping. This not only minimizes errors but also ensures that financial statements are prepared accurately and promptly, equipping businesses with the insights they need to make informed decisions.

Optimizing Tax Strategies with Corporation Tax Outsourcing Services

Navigating the labyrinthine world of corporation tax in the UK requires finesse. Outsourcing corporation tax services to experts ensures compliance with tax laws while minimizing tax liabilities. This proactive approach helps businesses sidestep penalties and optimize their tax strategies, contributing to long-term financial success.

In conclusion, the journey to financial success for UK businesses is paved with challenges, but it's also brimming with opportunities. Embracing accounting services and strategic outsourcing is not merely a choice; it's a strategic imperative. These solutions offer a lifeline to businesses striving not just to survive but to thrive in a rapidly changing business landscape. They empower businesses to master their finances, enabling them to seize growth opportunities and write their own success stories.

[outsource-accounting-india]

Online Accounting and Bookkeeping Services: Simplify Your Finances

Are you tired of spending countless hours managing your business finances? Are you looking for a way to streamline your accounting processes and focus on what you do best? Look no further! In this article, we'll explore the benefits of online accounting and bookkeeping services and how they can help you simplify your finances.

Why Online Accounting and Bookkeeping Services?

Running a business involves juggling multiple tasks simultaneously. From managing inventory to handling customer inquiries, your to-do list is never-ending. Amidst all this chaos, keeping track of your finances can be overwhelming. That's where online accounting and bookkeeping services come in.

What Are Online Accounting and Bookkeeping Services?

Online accounting and bookkeeping services are cloud-based platforms that allow you to manage your business finances from anywhere, at any time. These services offer a wide range of features, including:

Real-time Financial Insights: Stay up-to-date with your business's financial health with real-time reports and dashboards.

Automated Bookkeeping: Say goodbye to manual data entry! Online accounting services automate the bookkeeping process, saving you time and reducing errors.

Invoicing and Payment Processing: Create professional invoices and accept payments online, making it easier for your customers to pay you.

Expense Tracking: Keep track of your business expenses effortlessly by syncing your bank accounts and credit cards with the platform.

Tax Compliance: Ensure compliance with tax regulations by generating accurate tax reports and filing returns on time.

The Benefits of Online Accounting and Bookkeeping Services

Now that we understand what online accounting and bookkeeping services are, let's explore their benefits:

Time-Saving: By automating repetitive tasks such as data entry and report generation, online accounting services free up your time so you can focus on growing your business.

Cost-effective: Hiring an in-house accountant can be expensive. Online accounting services offer affordable pricing plans that fit every budget.

Accuracy: Manual data entry is prone to errors. With online accounting services, you can minimize human error and ensure accurate financial records.

Accessibility: Access your financial data from anywhere, at any time. All you need is an internet connection!

Scalability: As your business grows, so do your accounting needs. Online accounting services can scale with your business, accommodating increased transaction volumes seamlessly.

Key Takeaway

Online accounting and bookkeeping services are a game-changer for small businesses looking to simplify their finances. By leveraging cloud-based technology, these services offer real-time financial insights, automated bookkeeping, invoicing and payment processing, expense tracking, tax compliance, and more.

Say goodbye to manual data entry and hello to streamlined financial management! Explore the world of online accounting and bookkeeping services today.

Remember: Your time is valuable. Let online accounting services handle the numbers while you focus on what matters most – growing your business!

I hope this article provides valuable insights into the world of online accounting and bookkeeping services. If you have any further questions or need assistance with anything else, feel free to ask!

About Valuecent Consultancy

Valuecent Consultancy is a boutique firm offering high-quality business advisory, tax and regulation, bookkeeping and accounting outsourcing, audit and assurance services. With over 11 years of business-centric expertise, Valuecent Consultancy is a one-stop solution for offshore accounting services. They provide services to clients looking to expand their business horizons in India and international markets.

Valuecent Consultancy is a member firm of Antea International, a leading alliance of independent firms ranked among the top 20 in the world. They have representation in more than 70 countries and 350 offices worldwide, with a strong presence in Europe and Latin America.

Their services include audit and assurance, tax and regulatory, consultancy, corporate finance, outsourcing, secretarial services, legal services, legal and corporate governance, government advisory, remote bookkeeping and accounting services for business owners and accounting firms. Outsource your accounting to India with Valuecent Consultancy — an experienced and specialized firm committed to providing top-quality services to meet your unique needs.

[igs-bookkeeping]

The Power of Virtual Staff for Accounting Firms

 In today's fast-paced digital era, accounting firms are embracing new technologies and innovative strategies to stay ahead of the competition. One such transformative solution that has gained significant traction is the utilization of virtual staff. With their expertise in handling various accounting tasks remotely, virtual staff members offer a range of benefits to accounting firms, including enhanced efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and increased productivity. In this blog post, we will explore how virtual staff can revolutionize the way accounting firms operate and help them thrive in the modern business landscape.

Flexibility and Scalability: Virtual bookkeepers for CPA firms the flexibility to scale their workforce based on changing demands. Whether you need assistance during peak tax season or support for ongoing bookkeeping tasks, virtual staff can seamlessly adjust to accommodate your business's evolving needs. By leveraging virtual staff, accounting firms can maintain an optimal staffing level without the constraints of physical office space or geographical limitations.

Cost-Effective Solution: Hiring in-house employees often comes with significant expenses, including salaries, benefits, office infrastructure, and training costs. Virtual staff, on the other hand, offer a cost-effective solution for accounting firms. By leveraging virtual staff services, firms can eliminate the need for additional office space, reduce overhead costs, and save on employee benefits. This cost savings can be reinvested in the growth of the firm or passed on to clients, making virtual staff an attractive proposition for both accounting firms and their clients.

Expertise and Specialization: Accounting functions encompass a wide range of tasks, from bookkeeping and payroll to tax preparation and financial analysis. Virtual staff members are typically experienced professionals with specialized knowledge in specific areas of accounting. By utilizing virtual staff, accounting firms gain access to a pool of talented professionals who can handle complex tasks efficiently, ensuring accuracy and compliance with industry regulations. This expertise allows the firm's core team to focus on high-value strategic activities, such as financial planning and advisory services.

Enhanced Efficiency and Productivity: Virtual staff can significantly enhance the efficiency and productivity of accounting firms. With their expertise and specialized skill sets, they can handle routine tasks with speed and precision, allowing the firm's core team to concentrate on critical business operations. By offloading time-consuming activities to virtual staff, accounting professionals can allocate their time and energy to value-added tasks, such as client relationship management and business development. This increased efficiency not only improves client satisfaction but also contributes to the firm's overall profitability.

Seamless Collaboration and Communication: In the digital age, effective communication and collaboration are crucial for the success of any organization. Virtual staff members are adept at leveraging a variety of communication tools and project management platforms to stay connected with the core team. With real-time access to shared files and secure communication channels, virtual staff seamlessly integrate into the accounting firm's workflow, ensuring smooth coordination and timely completion of tasks. This collaborative approach fosters a sense of unity among team members, despite working remotely.

Conclusion: Virtual staff have emerged as a game-changer for accounting firms, offering a wide range of benefits, including flexibility, cost-effectiveness, expertise, and improved productivity. By leveraging virtual staff services, virtual accounting firms can streamline their operations, focus on core competencies, and deliver exceptional value to their clients. As technology continues to advance, the role of virtual staff in accounting firms will only grow, enabling firms to thrive in a competitive marketplace while adapting to the changing demands of the industry. Embracing virtual staff is a strategic decision that can elevate accounting firms to new heights of success in the digital age.

[our-bookkeeping-services]

Virtual Bookkeeping Services

One of your first choices, if your startup is at the point where you need to employ a bookkeeper, is whether to go with on-site or virtual bookkeeping. There's a good chance that you've used bookkeepers in person or are acquainted with on-site bookkeeping.

‍

While onsite accounting has advantages, it can also have significant drawbacks, especially for new businesses. With the help of virtual bookkeeping service, you can access thousands of accountants who can manage your books without ever setting foot in your workplace.

‍Our certified bookkeepers are here to handle all of your financial needs, no matter how complex they may be. With extensive training and knowledge in the field of finance, our practitioners are constantly improving their skills and expertise. We take the time to understand your business needs and communicate with you through various online channels. Our team is committed to providing genuine and affordable accounting services, tax, and financial solutions to help your business thrive. Contact us today to see how we can assist you!

[vocisllc]

Why You Should Hire an Experienced Virtual Bookkeeper

Virtual Bookkeeping Services connects with many businesses seeking help and advice about their bookkeeping virtually.

A common issue between them is they should have hired an inexperienced bookkeeper.

The two most common reasons clients come to us for bookkeeping services are:

1. the client did the books independently and made mistakes that cost them time and money.

2. they thought a cheap data entry person was enough to do the books.

This is the main reason that the client does this, which results in misclassifications and errors. They are now tired of hiring a company to clean everything up. This results in unnecessary loss of time and money, delayed filing of tax returns, and a chance the books need to be corrected.

The second reason is that the client may have hired a data entry person assuming they can fulfill that role at a cheaper rate.

Bookkeeping is more than just data entry. There are rules and guidelines along with knowing the software to streamline and utilize everything that QuickBooks offers.

 From this valuable feedback, hiring an experienced and competent bookkeeper like VOCIS is essential to ensuring an accurate set of books. They specialize in Virtual Bookkeeping and tailor their services to your company’s needs.

Vocis Virtual Bookkeeping Services is here to help you with major services like:

Recording Financial Transactions

Accounts Payable Management

Accounts Receivable Management

Financial and Managerial reports

Inventory/Stock Management

Budgeting and Forecasting

Financial and Analytical support

Payroll Processing

Let Vocis Virtual Bookkeeping Services handle the books so you can focus on your business.

Request a quote today.

[devsgames]

HOT GAMEDEVS DON'T GATEKEEP

Inspired by this post by @midwinterhunt, here's a compilation of all the game dev resources I have come across, most of which I use fairly frequently. Most of these are free, some are paid but fairly cheap. Feel free to add your own resources. ✌️

Important reminder: When using basically any works or programs someone else created in your games, make sure you thoroughly understand the licenses and terms it has been shared with. If you don't know what the terms are, reach out to the resource and ask. Don't be lazy about this; it's not only dishonest but it can come back to bite you.

Engines

Unity - Best suited for mobile and multi-platform.

Unreal - Tailored for shooters and high-fidelity experiences.

PICO-8 - Virtual console for simple games

Godot - Open source and free!

GameMaker - Good for 2D games

Bitsy - Great little engine for making simple games and experiences

Construct - Never used but have heard nice things

Scratch - If you've never coded before, this is the best place to start. Great for young devs and those who want to get their feet wet.

Adventure Game Studio - Best suited for adventure games

RPG Maker - Best suited for top-down classic JRPG style games

Twine - Text-centric games like Interactive Fiction

Assets

OpenGameArt - Many assets, various licenses, and plenty of CC0 content.

Unity Store - For Unity only. Some free.

Unreal Store - For Unreal only. Some free.

Godot Asset Library

Jean Moreno's Toon Effects - Some of the best effects available on the Unity store. Unity only but I've used them in basically every project.

Steamworks.net C# Wrapper For Unity - Unity only C# wrapper for integrating Steam compatibility to your game

Itch.io - Plenty of free art assets and game dev resources

Kenney - Kenney makes tons of open-source assets for devs to use.

Art

Mixamo - Generates rigs for your humanoid models and lets you apply a library of free humanoid animations to them. Super helpful for prototyping. Adobe.

Blender - Free, open source and fully featured 3D program.

XNormal - Free offline normal map generator

Normal Map Online - Free online normal map generator

Crocotile - Cheap tool for building 3D models from sprite sheets

MagicaVoxel - Free voxel modelling tool

Piskel - Free online sprite drawing tool

Aesprite - Paid sprite drawing tool

TurboSquid - Not always great quality, but can be good source of free placeholders.

Textures.com - Limited texture downloads per day but free for personal use.

Pexels - Free stock photo resource. Most are free for commercial use. Check licenses.

Clipstudio - Good for illustration or graphic design. One time payment.

GIMP - Image editing program a-la Photoshop. Free.

Audio

Audacity - Free and fully-featured DAW/audio editor.

sfx.me - Free 8-bit synth-style sound effect generator for games.

CastingCallClub - Easy forum to find amateur voice talent for your project (p.s.: you should pay them).

FreeSound.org - Free sounds, searchable by license. A go-to for my audio needs.

Incompetech - Royalty-free music by Kevin McLeod.

Scott Buckley Music - Royalty free with conditions. Generally more on the cinematic side of things but very good stuff!

SoundCloud - 'Search -> By Track -> Filter: Use Commercially' leads to songs posted with allowance of commercial use. Always reach out to the artist to understand their terms and confirm that it's okay to use with your project.

Project Planning

Keymailer - Handy for mailing keys to influencers (don't expect a lot of traction unless you're paying for some of the features though).

Trello - Kanban board. Great for organizing tasks, managing bugs, etc. Free.

Notion - Private text and wiki page editor. Good for project organization, note taking, and fleshing out ideas. Free.

Obsidian - Alternative to Notion, with similar features.

Miro - Free whiteboard for organizing thoughts, images, brainstorming, etc.

Wave - Free Bookkeeping site. Great for keeping finances organized.

[adbros]

30 ways to make real; money from home

Making money online from the comfort of your home has become increasingly accessible with the growth of the internet and digital technologies. In 2023, there are numerous realistic ways to earn money online. Here are 30 ideas to get you started:

1. Freelance Writing: Offer your writing skills on platforms like Upwork or Freelancer to create blog posts, articles, or website content.

2. Content Creation: Start a YouTube channel, podcast, or blog to share your expertise or passion and monetize through ads, sponsorships, and affiliate marketing.

3. Online Surveys and Market Research: Participate in online surveys and market research studies with platforms like Swagbucks or Survey Junkie.

4. Remote Customer Service: Work as a remote customer service representative for companies like Amazon or Apple.

5. Online Tutoring: Teach subjects you're knowledgeable in on platforms like VIPKid or Chegg Tutors.

6. E-commerce: Start an online store using platforms like Shopify, Etsy, or eBay to sell products.

7. Affiliate Marketing: Promote products or services on your blog or social media and earn commissions for sales made through your referral links.

8. Online Courses: Create and sell online courses on platforms like Udemy or Teachable.

9. Remote Data Entry: Find remote data entry jobs on websites like Clickworker or Remote.co.

10. Virtual Assistance: Offer administrative support services to businesses as a virtual assistant.

11. Graphic Design: Use your graphic design skills to create logos, graphics, or websites for clients on platforms like Fiverr.

12. Stock Photography: Sell your photos on stock photography websites like Shutterstock or Adobe Stock.

13. App Development: Develop and sell mobile apps or offer app development services.

14. Social Media Management: Manage social media accounts for businesses looking to enhance their online presence.

15. Dropshipping: Start an e-commerce business without holding inventory by dropshipping products.

16. Online Consultations: Offer consulting services in your area of expertise through video calls.

17. Online Surplus Sales: Sell unused items or collectibles on platforms like eBay or Facebook Marketplace.

18. Online Fitness Coaching: Become an online fitness coach and offer workout plans and guidance.

19. Virtual Events: Host webinars, workshops, or conferences on topics you're knowledgeable about.

20. Podcast Production: Offer podcast editing, production, or consulting services.

21. Remote Transcription: Transcribe audio and video files for clients.

22. Online Translation: Offer translation services if you're proficient in multiple languages.

23. Affiliate Blogging: Create a niche blog with affiliate marketing as the primary revenue source.

24. Online Art Sales: Sell your artwork, crafts, or digital art on platforms like Etsy or Redbubble.

25. Remote Bookkeeping: Offer bookkeeping services for small businesses from home.

26. Digital Marketing: Provide digital marketing services like SEO, PPC, or social media management.

27. Online Gaming: Stream your gaming sessions on platforms like Twitch and monetize through ads and donations.

28. Virtual Assistant Coaching: If you have experience as a VA, offer coaching services to aspiring virtual assistants.

29. Online Research: Conduct research for businesses or individuals in need of specific information.

30. Online Real Estate: Invest in virtual real estate, such as domain names or digital properties, and sell them for a profit.

Remember that success in making money online often requires dedication, patience, and the ability to adapt to changing trends. It's essential to research and choose the opportunities that align with your skills, interests, and long-term goals.

[outbooks-ireland]

A virtual bookkeeper is an ideal option for any business in Ireland to improve their financial management. Outbooks will be your trustworthy partner in Ireland for all your bookkeeping needs. We provide tailored bookkeeping solutions that fit your varying business needs affordably. 

Virtual bookkeeping services are an excellent solution for any company owner needing financial assistance. They provide an online solution whereby a virtual bookkeeper is appointed to manage all your accounting needs.

Unlock Growth Potential with a Virtual Bookkeeper! Learn How Hiring One Can Transform Your Business. Click to Explore the Benefits.Reach out to Outbooks at info@outbooks.com or +44 330 057 8597 to learn more about our reliable bookkeeping solutions in Ireland!

[mariacallous]

In early 2022, two Google policy staffers met with a trio of women victimized by a scam that resulted in explicit videos of them circulating online—including via Google search results. The women were among the hundreds of young adults who responded to ads seeking swimsuit models only to be coerced into performing in sex videos distributed by the website GirlsDoPorn. The site shut down in 2020, and a producer, a bookkeeper, and a cameraman subsequently pleaded guilty to sex trafficking, but the videos kept popping up on Google search faster than the women could request removals.

The women, joined by an attorney and a security expert, presented a bounty of ideas for how Google could keep the criminal and demeaning clips better hidden, according to five people who attended or were briefed on the virtual meeting. They wanted Google search to ban websites devoted to GirlsDoPorn and videos with its watermark. They suggested Google could borrow the 25-terabyte hard drive on which the women’s cybersecurity consultant, Charles DeBarber, had saved every GirlsDoPorn episode, take a mathematical fingerprint, or “hash,” of each clip, and block them from ever reappearing in search results.

The two Google staffers in the meeting hoped to use what they learned to win more resources from higher-ups. But the victim’s attorney, Brian Holm, left feeling dubious. The policy team was in “a tough spot” and “didn’t have authority to effect change within Google,” he says.

His gut reaction was right. Two years later, none of those ideas brought up in the meeting have been enacted, and the videos still come up in search.

WIRED has spoken with five former Google employees and 10 victims’ advocates who have been in communication with the company. They all say that they appreciate that because of recent changes Google has made, survivors of image-based sexual abuse such as the GirlsDoPorn scam can more easily and successfully remove unwanted search results. But they are frustrated that management at the search giant hasn’t approved proposals, such as the hard drive idea, which they believe will more fully restore and preserve the privacy of millions of victims around the world, most of them women.

The sources describe previously unreported internal deliberations, including Google’s rationale for not using an industry tool called StopNCII that shares information about nonconsensual intimate imagery (NCII) and the company’s failure to demand that porn websites verify consent to qualify for search traffic. Google’s own research team has published steps that tech companies can take against NCII, including using StopNCII.

The sources believe such efforts would better contain a problem that’s growing, in part through widening access to AI tools that create explicit deepfakes, including ones of GirlsDoPorn survivors. Overall reports to the UK’s Revenge Porn hotline more than doubled last year, to roughly 19,000, as did the number of cases involving synthetic content. Half of over 2,000 Brits in a recent survey worried about being victimized by deepfakes. The White House in May urged swifter action by lawmakers and industry to curb NCII overall. In June, Google joined seven other companies and nine organizations in announcing a working group to coordinate responses.

Right now, victims can demand prosecution of abusers or pursue legal claims against websites hosting content, but neither of those routes is guaranteed, and both can be costly due to legal fees. Getting Google to remove results can be the most practical tactic and serves the ultimate goal of keeping violative content out of the eyes of friends, hiring managers, potential landlords, or dates—who almost all likely turn to Google to look up people.

A Google spokesperson, who requested anonymity to avoid harassment from perpetrators, declined to comment on the call with GirlsDoPorn victims. She says combating what the company refers to as nonconsensual explicit imagery (NCEI) remains a priority and that Google’s actions go well beyond what is legally required. “Over the years, we’ve invested deeply in industry-leading policies and protections to help protect people affected by this harmful content,” she says. “Teams across Google continue to work diligently to bolster our safeguards and thoughtfully address emerging challenges to better protect people.”

In an interview with WIRED, a Google search product manager overseeing anti-harm work says blocking videos using hashes is challenging to adopt because some websites don’t publish videos in a way that search engines can compare against. Speaking on condition of anonymity, she says Google has encouraged explicit websites to address that. She adds that there’s generally more for Google to do but refutes the allegation that executives had held up the work.

Advocates of bolder action by Google point to the company’s much tighter restrictions on searching for child sexual abuse material (CSAM) as evidence it could do much more. Typing “deepfake nudes kids” into Google prompts a warning that such content is illegal and ultimately directs users to news articles and support groups. Google also finds and blocks from its results almost 1 million new CSAM-containing webpages annually.

A recent Google search for “deepfake nudes jennifer aniston” yielded seven results purporting to offer just that. The search engine offered no warning or resources in response to the query, despite nearly every US state and many countries having criminalized unpermitted distribution of intimate content of adults. Google declined to comment on the lack of a warning.

The product manager says comparisons to CSAM are invalid. Virtually any image of a naked child is illegal and can be automatically removed, she says. Separating NCEI from consensual porn requires some indication that the content was shot or distributed without permission, and that context often isn’t clear until a victim files a report and a human analyzes it. But the manager wouldn’t directly answer whether Google has tried to overcome the challenge.

Adam Dodge, founder of advocacy and education group Ending Tech-Enabled Abuse, says that until Google proactively removes more NCII, victims have to be hypervigilant about finding and reporting it themselves. That’s “not something we should put on victims,” he says. “We’re asking them to go to the location where they were assaulted online to move past the trauma.”

Google started accepting removal requests for search results leading to nudity or sex in 2015 if the content was intended to be private and was never authorized to be published, according to its policy. That went largely unchanged until 2020, when the company added that being in an “intimate state” qualified.

A New York Times column that year triggered Google executives to dedicate resources to the issue, organizing projects, including one codenamed Sparrow, to help victims keep content off search for good, three former employees say. The product manager confirmed that executives at times have pushed teams to improve Google’s handling of NCEI.

Google made its takedown form friendlier to use, understand, and access, the sources say. The search giant axed legalese and outdated use of the term “revenge porn,” since porn is generally viewed as consensual. The company added instructions on submitting screenshots and greater detail on the review process.

The form became accessible by clicking the menu that appears next to every search result. Requests rose about 19-fold in one early test, one source says. A second source says that it has become among Google’s most-used forms for reporting abuse and that, after the edits, a far greater percentage of requests resulted in removal of results. Google disputes these figures, but it declined to share comprehensive data on NCEI.

Government-mandated transparency reports show Google has removed most of the nearly 170,000 search and YouTube links reported for unwanted sexual content in South Korea since December 2020, the earliest data available, and nixed nearly 300 pieces of content in response to 380 complaints from users in India since May 2021. The limited data suggest Google is finding more reports credible than its smaller rival in search Microsoft, which took action in 52 percent of the nearly 8,400 cases it received globally for Bing and other services from 2015 through June 2023.

Launched in late 2021, the StopNCII system has amassed a database of over 572,000 hashed photos and videos and blocked that media from being shared more than 12,000 times across 10 services, including Instagram and TikTok. Google hasn’t adopted the tool to block content from search due to concerns about what’s actually in the database, according to three sources.

To protect victims’ privacy, StopNCII doesn’t review content they report, and hashes reveal nothing about the underlying content. Google is worried that it could end up blocking something innocent, the sources say. “We don’t know if it’s just an image of a cupcake,” one of them says. The sources add that Google also has opted against bankrolling a system it considers better, despite internal suggestions to do so.

The Google spokesperson declined to comment on StopNCII, but in April the company told UK lawmakers who questioned Google about its decision not to use the tool that it had “specific policy and practical concerns about the interoperability of the database,” without elaborating.

Internally, Google workers have come up with some bold ideas to improve takedowns. Employees have discussed booting explicit websites, including porn companies, from search results unless they are willing to assure that their content is consensual, according to four sources. The idea hasn’t been adopted. Google’s search unit has shied away from setting rules on a thorny and taboo subject like sexual imagery, three sources say. “They don’t want to be seen as regulators of the internet,” one former staffer says.

Because Google sends significant traffic to explicit websites, it could force them to take stricter measures. About 15 percent of image searches and up to half of video searches among the billions Google receives daily are related to porn, says one former staffer, figures the company declined to comment on. “Google holds the keys to the kingdom,” the source says. Meanwhile, few others are stepping in. US lawmakers haven’t passed proposed legislation to impose consent checks on online uploads. And some popular services for sharing explicit content, such as Reddit and X, don’t require users to submit proof of subjects’ consent.

Porn producers, who collect identity information from performers as required by US law, support the sharing of a consent signal with search engines, says Mike Stabile, spokesperson for the industry trade body Free Speech Coalition. “Major adult sites already monitor and block NCII much more aggressively than mainstream platforms,” he says.

The Google spokesperson declined to comment on the consent idea but points to an existing penalty: Google last December began demoting—but not blocking—search results for websites that come up in “a high volume” of successful takedown requests.

The Google product manager and the spokesperson contend that the search team already has taken big steps over the past three years to ease the burden on survivors of image-based sexual abuse. But WIRED’s investigation shows that some improvements have come with caveats.

A system Google introduced that tries to automatically remove search links when previously reported content resurfaces on new websites doesn’t work on videos or altered images, and two sources say Google hadn’t dedicated staff to improving it. “It absolutely could be better, and there isn’t enough attention on how it could really solve victims’ problems,” one says. The spokesperson says staff are assigned to enhance the tool.

Another system called known victim protection tries to filter out results with explicit images from search queries similar to those from past takedown requests, the two sources say. It is designed to not disrupt results to legitimate porn and generally reduces the need for victims to stay vigilant for new uploads. But Google has acknowledged to South Korean regulators that the system isn’t perfect. “Given the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the web, automated systems are not able, 100 percent of the time, to catch every explicit result,” the company writes in its transparency reports.

In one of its biggest shifts, Google last August abandoned its policy of declining to remove links to content that included signs that it had been captured with consent. For years, if Google determined from the imagery and any audio that the subject knew they were being recorded without any signs of coercion or distress, it would reject the takedown ask unless the requester provided ample evidence that it had been published without consent. It was a “super-mushy concept,” one of the former employees says.

That same source says staff persuaded executives to update the policy in part by describing the importance of letting people who had become adult performers on OnlyFans out of financial necessity to later revoke their consent and shred any ties to sex work. The Google spokesperson didn’t dispute this.

The Washington, DC-based National Center on Sexual Exploitation, an anti-porn group that’s become an authority on image-based sexual abuse, argues that even after the revision, Google is falling short. It wants Google to automatically honor all takedown requests and put the burden on websites to prove there was consent to record and publish the disputed content. The Google spokesperson says that potential policy updates are constantly considered.

In the eyes of advocates, Google is being nowhere near as resourceful or attentive as it could or should be. Brad Gilde of Gilde Law Firm in Houston says he came away disappointed when his client won a headline-grabbing $1.2 billion judgment against an ex-boyfriend last August but then couldn’t get Google to remove a highly ranked search link to a sexually explicit audio recording of her on YouTube. The upload, which included the victim’s name and drew over 100 views, came down last month only after WIRED inquired.

Developing a reliable AI system to proactively identify nonconsensual media may prove impossible. But better keeping an ear out for big cases shouldn’t be too complicated, says Dan Purcell, a victim who founded removal company Ceartas DMCA. Google employees had a proposal on this issue: The company could establish a priority flagger program—as it has for other types of problematic content, including CSAM—and formally solicit tips from outside organizations such as Purcell’s that monitor for NCII. But staffing to administer the idea never came through. “​​Google is the No. 1 discoverability platform,” Purcell says. “They have to take more responsibility.” The Google spokesperson declined to comment.

DeBarber, the removal consultant who spoke with Google alongside his clients victimized by GirlsDoPorn, did a search for one of them this month while on the phone with WIRED. No links surfaced to videos of her, because DeBarber has spent over 100 hours getting those pages removed. But one porn service was misusing her name to lure in viewers to other content—a new result DeBarber would have to ask Google to remove. And through a different Google search, he could access a problematic website on which people can look up videos of his client.

Harassers regularly text that client links to her NCII, a frustrating reminder of how her past has yet to be erased. “They want to be out of sight and out of mind,” DeBarber says of his clients. “We’re heading in the right direction.” But he and survivors are counting on Google to help knock out the offenders for good. "A lot more could have been done by Google and still could be."

[globalintegrauk]

Streamlining Business Success: The Power of Accounting Outsourcing Services

In today's dynamic business landscape, efficiency and focus are paramount to achieving sustained growth. As companies of all sizes strive to maintain a competitive edge, the role of outsourcing has gained significant prominence. Among the various outsourcing options available, accounting outsourcing services have emerged as a strategic choice for businesses looking to optimize their financial operations.

The Evolution of Outsourced Accounting and Bookkeeping Services: A Strategic Shift

Gone are the days when accounting was limited to ledger books and manual calculations. The digital revolution has transformed the accounting landscape, introducing a plethora of software tools and automation technologies. This transformation, combined with the globalization of markets, has paved the way for the rise of outsourced accounting and bookkeeping services.

Driving Efficiency with Professional Bookkeeping Outsourcing Services

Professional bookkeeping outsourcing services have become a cornerstone for businesses aiming to streamline their financial processes. These services offer a range of benefits, from cost savings to improved accuracy and compliance. Outsourcing companies specializing in accounting bring a wealth of expertise to the table, ensuring that financial records are meticulously maintained and in adherence with the latest regulatory standards.

Unveiling the Advantages: Why Businesses Opt for Accounting Outsourcing Services

Cost Efficiency: Maintaining an in-house accounting department can be costly, involving expenses related to salaries, benefits, training, and infrastructure. Outsourcing accounting functions helps control costs while gaining access to top-tier accounting professionals.

Focus on Core Competencies: By entrusting accounting tasks to dedicated outsourcing companies, businesses can refocus their internal resources on core activities that directly impact their growth trajectory.

Access to Expertise: Outsourced accounting and bookkeeping services are delivered by seasoned professionals well-versed in financial best practices. This expertise translates into accurate financial reporting and strategic financial advice.

Scalability: As businesses expand, their financial requirements evolve as well. Outsourcing services offer scalability, ensuring that financial operations can seamlessly accommodate growth without resource bottlenecks.

Reduced Risk: Navigating the complex landscape of tax regulations and financial compliance demands specialized knowledge. Outsourcing companies stay up-to-date with regulatory changes, minimizing the risk of non-compliance and potential penalties.

Choosing the Right Partner in Outsourcing

Selecting the right outsourcing partner is crucial for reaping the full benefits of accounting outsourcing services. A diligent evaluation process should consider factors such as the provider's industry experience, reputation, technology infrastructure, and the range of services they offer. Open communication and alignment of goals are key to establishing a successful partnership.

Embracing the Future: The Path Ahead

As technology continues to advance and business environments evolve, the role of outsourced accounting and bookkeeping services will only become more essential. The ability to harness the power of data analytics, AI-driven insights, and real-time reporting will position businesses for agile decision-making and strategic growth.

In conclusion, accounting outsourcing services have transcended the traditional notions of cost-cutting to become a strategic enabler of business success. By leveraging the expertise of outsourcing companies, businesses can navigate the intricacies of finance with confidence, optimize their operations, and channel resources toward innovation and growth. As the business world continues to evolve, embracing accounting outsourcing is not just a choice; it's a competitive imperative.

[headphonemouse]

Virtual learning and online ordering have got it all wrong the whole town should be recreated like a 2d rpg village if I want a burger delivered I take my sprite down to the little tavern and talk to the register there then they deliver it to my real house. If I have to go to virtual school then the whole building should also be an rpg map and I can press x to talk to the bookkeeper and pay my bills

[igs-bookkeeping]

Bookkeeping vs. Accounting: What is the Difference?

Introduction: When it comes to managing the financial aspects of a business, two terms often come up: bookkeeping and accounting. While these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, they refer to distinct functions within the realm of finance. Understanding the difference between bookkeeping and accounting is crucial for business owners and professionals seeking to effectively manage their finances. In this article, we will delve into the nuances of bookkeeping and accounting and shed light on their respective roles and responsibilities.

Defining Bookkeeping: Bookkeeping serves as the foundation of financial management and involves the systematic recording and organization of financial transactions. It focuses on the day-to-day financial operations of a business and provides accurate and up-to-date records of income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. Bookkeepers utilize specialized software and tools to maintain ledgers, journals, and financial statements. They are responsible for tasks such as recording invoices, tracking payments, reconciling bank statements, and maintaining the general ledger.

Key Responsibilities of Bookkeepers:

Recording financial transactions: Bookkeepers ensure that every financial transaction is accurately recorded, including sales, purchases, receipts, and payments.

Maintaining ledgers and journals: They organize financial data by updating ledgers and journals regularly, ensuring that all transactions are properly classified and documented.

Reconciling accounts: Bookkeepers reconcile bank statements with the company's financial records to identify discrepancies and maintain accurate balances.

Managing accounts receivable and accounts payable: They track customer invoices, monitor payments, and manage vendor bills to maintain smooth cash flow.

Generating financial reports: Bookkeepers prepare basic financial statements, such as income statements and balance sheets, providing a snapshot of the company's financial health.

Understanding Accounting: Accounting goes beyond the data entry and recording of financial transactions. It involves analyzing, interpreting, and summarizing financial information to make informed business decisions. Accountants utilize the data prepared by bookkeepers to generate meaningful insights and offer financial advice. They apply principles, standards, and regulations to assess the financial performance of a business, identify trends, and provide strategic recommendations.

Key Responsibilities of Accountants:

Financial analysis and interpretation: Accountants analyze financial data to assess the company's financial position, profitability, and cash flow. They provide insights into trends, patterns, and potential areas for improvement.

Preparation of financial statements: Accountants generate comprehensive financial statements, including income statements, balance sheets, and cash flow statements. These statements provide an overview of the company's financial performance and help stakeholders evaluate its viability.

Tax planning and compliance: Accountants navigate complex tax regulations, ensuring compliance and optimizing tax strategies to minimize liabilities and maximize benefits.

Budgeting and forecasting: Professional Accountants play a crucial role in creating budgets and financial forecasts, helping businesses plan for future growth and anticipate financial needs.

Financial consulting and advice: Accountants provide valuable advice on financial matters, offering guidance on investments, cost reduction strategies, and business expansion plans.

Collaboration and Relationship: Bookkeepers and accountants often work together in a collaborative manner. Bookkeepers provide accountants with accurate and organized financial data, enabling accountants to perform their analysis and generate meaningful insights. This collaborative relationship ensures that businesses have a comprehensive understanding of their financial position and make informed decisions based on reliable information.

Conclusion: While bookkeeping and accounting services are distinct disciplines within the financial realm, they are both integral to the success of any business. Bookkeeping focuses on the accurate recording and organization of financial transactions, while accounting involves interpreting financial data, generating insights, and providing strategic advice. By understanding the differences between bookkeeping and accounting, business owners can appreciate the value of each role and ensure they have a solid financial foundation for their organization.