BillQuick - Detailed Review
Finance Tools
BillQuick - Product Overview
Introduction to BillQuick
BillQuick, developed by BQE Software, is a comprehensive integrated solution that combines project management, time and expense tracking, billing, and accounting functionalities. This software is designed to help businesses streamline their financial and project management processes, making it an invaluable tool in the finance tools category.Primary Function
The primary function of BillQuick is to provide a unified platform for managing projects, tracking time and expenses, generating invoices, and handling accounting tasks. This integration enables businesses to manage their operations more efficiently, reducing the need for multiple separate systems.Target Audience
BillQuick is targeted at small to midsize businesses, as well as larger enterprises, across various industries. It is particularly beneficial for professional services firms that need to manage multiple projects, track time and expenses accurately, and maintain detailed financial records.Key Features
Project Management
BillQuick allows users to manage projects and resources in real-time, using color-coded assignments and calendars. It also enables the attachment of documents and images to project records.Time and Expense Tracking
The software includes features for tracking employee time via a calendar, spreadsheet, or stopwatch. It can auto-populate time sheets with data from the previous week and track overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances.Billing and Invoicing
BillQuick offers over 100 customizable invoice templates and the ability to email invoices in various formats. It supports multiple billing methods, including automatic and progress billing, and allows for the attachment of time and expense entries to invoices.Accounting
The software includes a range of accounting features such as a collection center for payment history and account notes, the ability to write checks and reconcile bank accounts, and access to accounting journal entries and reports like profit and loss statements and balance sheets.Reporting
BillQuick has a Reporting Center with over 500 report templates. Users can customize reports with their company logo and colors, and save frequently used reports for future use.Deployment
BillQuick is available in both on-premise and cloud versions, giving businesses the flexibility to choose the deployment method that best suits their needs. By integrating these various functionalities, BillQuick helps businesses improve their efficiency, reduce errors, and make informed financial decisions. BillQuick - User Interface and Experience
User Interface Overview
The user interface of BillQuick is designed to be intuitive and user-friendly, making it accessible for a wide range of users, particularly those in small and medium-sized businesses.Interface and Design
BillQuick features a clean and organized interface. The recent addition of the “Austin” theme, with its light blue base color, enhances the visual appeal and makes the interface more pleasing to work with. The software is well-organized, allowing users to easily access various features such as time tracking, project management, and billing. The interface is simple enough to navigate, even for non-technical individuals.Ease of Use
Users have praised BillQuick for its ease of use. The platform is described as “surprisingly user-friendly” and “very easy to use,” with a short learning curve that helps users become proficient quickly. Features like color-coded task designations and calendars make it easy for users to manage personnel and resources in real time. The ability to attach documents and images to records further simplifies the workflow.User Experience
The overall user experience with BillQuick is positive. Users appreciate the multi-user functionality, which allows employees to enter their own time without disrupting other billing aspects. The software also integrates well with other business systems, such as QuickBooks, which streamlines billing and reporting processes.Mobile and Web Accessibility
BillQuick offers mobile apps and web-based interfaces, enabling users to track time, manage projects, and create invoices on the go using smartphones or tablets. This flexibility enhances the user experience by providing access to key features from anywhere.Customization and Support
The software is customizable to fit the specific needs of different professional services firms. Users can generate various reports and customize dashboards to display the data they need. Additionally, BillQuick’s customer support is highly regarded, with responsive and helpful service that addresses user issues promptly.Conclusion
In summary, BillQuick’s user interface is designed for ease of use, with a clean and organized layout, intuitive features, and strong support for mobile and web access. This makes it an effective tool for managing time, projects, and billing efficiently. BillQuick - Key Features and Functionality
BillQuick Overview
BillQuick, developed by BQE Software, is a comprehensive finance and project management tool that offers a wide range of features to streamline financial, project, and time management processes. Here are the main features and how they work:Time Tracking
BillQuick allows users to track time in multiple modes: Simple Timecard, Sheet View, and Timers. You can run multiple timers simultaneously and auto-populate timesheets, making it easier to manage and record time spent on projects. This feature helps in accurate time tracking, which is crucial for billing and project management.Expense Tracking
The expense tracking feature simplifies expense entry by allowing users to log expenses through project and expense IDs. You can also attach receipts to expense entries by taking a photo, ensuring all expenses are well-documented and easily traceable. This helps in maintaining accurate financial records and simplifying the expense reporting process.Project Management
BillQuick offers robust project management capabilities, including analyzing the profitability of different projects, assigning tasks to employees, allocating resources, and providing approval for time and expenses. Users can manage projects and resources in real time, track team members and projects via color-coded assignments and calendars, and attach documents and images to records. This feature helps in optimizing project performance and resource utilization.Billing and Invoicing
The billing process can be automated by setting rules and frequency. BillQuick provides over 100 standard and customizable invoice templates that can be emailed in PDF, Excel, or Word format. This automation and customization help in efficient billing and invoicing, reducing the time and effort required to generate and send invoices.Reporting and Analytics
BillQuick includes a Reporting Center where users can create reports from over 500 templates. Reports can be customized with company logos and colors, and users can reuse or “memorize” reports for future use. The system also allows users to customize their dashboards to display key performance indicators (KPIs). This feature provides valuable insights into financial and project performance, helping in better decision-making.Integration with Accounting Software
BillQuick can be integrated with accounting systems such as Intuit QuickBooks and Sage. This integration allows for real-time, on-schedule, or on-demand data flow between BillQuick and the accounting software, ensuring efficient data synchronization and reducing manual data entry.Mobile Access
BillQuick offers mobile access, enabling users to manage their tasks, track time and expenses, and access other features from anywhere. This mobility enhances productivity and flexibility for users who need to work on the go.Client and Employee Management
The software includes features for managing clients and employees. Users can track client information, payment history, and account notes. For employees, it tracks time, overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances, making it easier to manage workforce resources.Budgeting and Forecasting
BillQuick allows users to create budgets and forecasts for projects. This feature helps in financial planning and ensures that projects stay within budget, aiding in better financial management.Automated Reminders
The system provides automated reminders for various tasks and deadlines, ensuring that users stay on track and do not miss important events or milestones.Document Management
BillQuick includes a document management system where users can attach and store documents and images related to projects and clients. This keeps all relevant information organized and easily accessible.Resource Allocation and Task Management
Users can allocate resources and assign tasks to employees. The workflow automation feature helps in streamlining tasks and ensuring that projects are managed efficiently.User Permissions and Data Security
The software includes user permission settings, allowing administrators to control access to different features and data. It also provides data backup and security measures to protect user data.AI Integration
While the primary sources do not explicitly mention AI integration within BillQuick itself, the software’s automation features and integrations with other systems can be seen as precursors to more advanced AI-driven functionalities. For example, integrating BillQuick with other AI-enabled tools or platforms could enhance its capabilities. However, as of the current information, BillQuick does not have built-in AI features.Conclusion
In summary, BillQuick is a powerful tool for managing time, expenses, projects, and financial operations, with a range of features that help in streamlining processes and making informed decisions. While it does not currently include AI-driven features, its integration capabilities with other systems could potentially be leveraged to incorporate AI functionalities in the future. BillQuick - Performance and Accuracy
Performance
BillQuick is generally praised for its performance in managing projects, time tracking, and accounting. Here are some highlights:
- The software allows users to manage projects and resources in real time, which includes tracking team members and projects through color-coded assignments and calendars.
- Time tracking is efficient, with features like automatic population of time sheets based on previous week data, and the ability to track overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances.
- The timer control feature, although it has some limitations, is designed to continue running even after server timeouts, automatically re-establishing the session when the timer is stopped.
However, there are some performance-related issues to note:
- The timer control feature in the web version can be less robust compared to the desktop version due to server timeout issues, although BQE has implemented technology to mitigate this.
- Users have reported occasional inconsistencies with timer data, such as unsaved timers reappearing, which can be due to constraints on Windows or other technical conflicts.
Accuracy
BillQuick is known for its accurate tracking and reporting capabilities:
- The software provides accurate time tracking, allowing for precise billing and accounting. Users can track hours, expenses, and other project-related data with a high degree of accuracy.
- The accounting features, including invoicing, payment tracking, and financial reporting (such as profit and loss statements and balance sheets), are also highly accurate and reliable.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
Despite its strengths, there are several areas where BillQuick could improve:
- User Experience: Some users have noted that the platform could be more intuitive. For example, certain reports lack improved filter choices, and exporting reports without all headers can be cumbersome.
- Feature Gaps: There is no option for early payment discounts on invoices, and the budget tool is not as simple as some users would like. Additionally, the contract field does not include all the necessary features.
- Technical Issues: While the timer control feature has seen improvements, it still may not function perfectly in all scenarios, particularly in the web version.
- Customization and Flexibility: Some users have suggested that more focus should be placed on making the platform more user-friendly and flexible, especially in terms of custom reports and invoices.
In summary, BillQuick performs well in terms of project management, time tracking, and accounting accuracy, but there are areas where the user experience and feature set could be enhanced to better meet user needs.
BillQuick - Pricing and Plans
No Public Pricing Information
BQE Software does not display their pricing information publicly. To get a quote, you need to contact the vendor directly.Different Versions and Tiers
BillQuick is available in two main versions: BillQuick (on-premise) and BillQuick Online (cloud-based).BillQuick (On-Premise)
- This version is divided into three tiers:
- Basic: Intended for up to four users, it includes features like data import/export, multiple currency support, customizable reports and invoices, DCAA compliance, electronic invoices, and role-based security.
- Pro: Supports up to 20 users and includes all Basic features plus additional functionalities such as task creation and assignment, mobile functionality, Gantt charts, custom PDF invoices, and a dashboard for KPIs.
- Enterprise: Supports an unlimited number of users and includes all features from the Basic and Pro versions, along with advanced features like a Microsoft SQL server database, custom fields, a collection center, and automatic payment receipts.
BillQuick Online (Cloud-Based)
- This version is also available, but the specific tiers and their features are not detailed in the same way as the on-premise version. However, it offers similar functionalities to the on-premise version, including time tracking, billing, and project management, with the added convenience of cloud access.
Free Trial
Both BillQuick and BillQuick Online offer a free trial period. For BillQuick Online, you can sign up for a 15-day free trial to test the full functionality of the software.Implementation Packages
While not directly related to pricing, BQE offers different implementation packages (Quick Start, Professional, Elite, and Promise) that include various levels of training and support, which may be factored into the overall cost. If you are interested in specific pricing details, it is recommended to contact BQE Software directly to request a quote. BillQuick - Integration and Compatibility
Integration with Other Tools
BillQuick, a comprehensive time tracking, billing, and project management solution, integrates seamlessly with several key tools to enhance its functionality and streamline business operations.QuickBooks Integration
One of the most significant integrations is with QuickBooks, a popular accounting software. BillQuick can be synchronized with QuickBooks Desktop through various modes:Real-Time Synchronization
Automatically integrates data between BillQuick and QuickBooks when a record is updated in either application.On-Schedule Synchronization
Allows synchronization on a chosen schedule, such as daily, weekly, or at startup/exit of BillQuick.On-Demand Synchronization
Enables users to transfer updated data or individual records at any time using the “Send To” button or right-click option. During integration, users need to specify synchronization settings, assign QuickBooks accounts to BillQuick items (activities, expenses, invoice line items), and set up payroll and class assignments for these items.Compatibility Across Platforms and Devices
Operating Systems
BillQuick is compatible with a range of Microsoft Windows operating systems, including Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista, Windows XP, and various Windows Server versions. It supports both 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.Network Environments
BillQuick can be installed and operated in both single-user systems and network environments, including peer-to-peer networks and those with network servers. This flexibility allows it to adapt to different organizational setups.Web-Based Version
For users who prefer a cloud-based solution, BillQuick Online is available. This version is a Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) model that provides access to business information from any location via the internet. It is compatible with browsers such as Safari, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer on both PC and Mac. BillQuick Online also allows synchronization between the hosted and local copies of the company database.Mobile Access
BillQuick Online, being a web-based application, can be accessed from various devices including PCs, laptops, iPads, and iPhones, ensuring that users can manage their business from anywhere.Additional Integrations
Apart from QuickBooks, BillQuick, now part of the BQE CORE suite, integrates with other key tools such as Office 365, Dropbox, and more. The open APIs provided by BQE CORE also enable custom integrations with other applications, enhancing the overall functionality and versatility of the system. In summary, BillQuick offers extensive integration capabilities, particularly with QuickBooks, and is compatible across a variety of operating systems, network environments, and devices, making it a versatile and accessible solution for business management needs. BillQuick - Customer Support and Resources
Customer Support
BQE Software offers 24/7 customer support to address any issues or questions you may have. Here are the key contact points:- Technical Support: You can reach the support team via phone at 1 (310) 602-4030, or email at support@bqe.com. They are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
- International Support: BQE has dedicated support numbers for various countries, including Australia, Canada, Hong Kong, India, Ireland, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Singapore, the UAE, and the United Kingdom. You can find the specific contact details for each region on their website.
Providing Necessary Information
To ensure the fastest possible service, it is helpful to have certain information ready when contacting technical support. This includes your product serial number, your name and company name, the exact product name and version, your operating system, a complete description of the issue, and any steps you have taken to resolve it.Additional Resources
Knowledge Base and Documentation
BQE provides a comprehensive knowledge base and support documentation that you can access to find answers to common questions and troubleshooting tips. This resource is available on their website and can be a quick way to resolve issues without needing to contact support.User Forum
BQE hosts a user forum where you can interact with other users, share experiences, and get help from the community. This can be a valuable resource for learning best practices and getting tips from fellow users.Training and Consulting
For more in-depth assistance, BQE offers training and consulting services. You can contact their sales team to inquire about these services, which can help you optimize your use of BillQuick and other BQE products.Blog and Insights
The BQE blog provides insights and articles on project management, customer loyalty, and other relevant topics. This can help you stay updated with industry trends and best practices, and also learn how to use BQE products more effectively.Product Trials and Demos
If you are considering BillQuick or other BQE products, you can take advantage of free trial versions or request a demo. This allows you to test the software and see its features in action before making a purchase. By leveraging these support options and resources, you can ensure that you are using BillQuick and other BQE products to their full potential, helping you manage your time, expenses, billing, and projects more efficiently. BillQuick - Pros and Cons
Advantages
Comprehensive Feature Set
BillQuick offers a wide range of features including time and expense tracking, project management, billing and invoicing, reporting and analytics, and integration with accounting software. This makes it a versatile tool for managing various aspects of a business.
Mobile Access
The software provides mobile access, allowing users to log time and expenses, and manage projects from any location using a web-enabled phone or other mobile devices.
Automated Processes
BillQuick includes automated features such as memorized transactions for recurring vendor bills and checks, automated reminders, and the ability to send multiple invoices in a single email. These features streamline business processes and save time.
Reporting and Analytics
The software offers powerful reporting capabilities, including interactive project budgeting with real-time feedback and the ability to generate detailed reports. This helps in making informed business decisions.
User-Friendly
Many users appreciate the ease of use of BillQuick, especially its mobile app, which keeps staff connected and allows easy tracking of project documents and time entries.
Customer Support
Users have praised the customer service provided by BQE, noting that the support team is responsive and helpful in resolving issues.
Scalability
BillQuick is scalable, making it suitable for firms of all sizes, from single-person businesses to large global firms.
Disadvantages
Customization Limitations
Some users have noted limitations in customizing reports and invoices. For example, there is a desire to make changes to standard reports and save them as customized reports.
Workflow Issues
There have been mentions of workflow issues, such as the two-step approval process for vendor bills and project expenses, which can be unclear and cumbersome.
Technical Issues
In the past, some users experienced technical issues during software upgrades, which affected custom reports and invoices. However, these issues seem to have been resolved in recent updates.
User Interface
A few users have mentioned that the software can be slow and not optimized for fast use, with some features missing for efficient use.
Global Search
There is a need for improvements in the global search function, particularly to include user-defined custom fields.
Overall, BillQuick is highly regarded for its comprehensive features and user-friendly interface, but it does have some areas where improvements are needed, particularly in customization and workflow processes.
BillQuick - Comparison with Competitors
BillQuick Overview
BillQuick, part of the BQE suite, is a time tracking and billing solution primarily aimed at professional service firms such as architects, engineers, lawyers, and accountants. It offers features like project management, time tracking, client billing, and document storage. However, it has some limitations, including poor customer service, complexity for new users, and the need for significant time to master the software.Unique Features of BillQuick
- Project Management and Time Tracking: BillQuick is strong in project management and time tracking, making it a good fit for firms that need detailed tracking of project hours and expenses.
- Integration with Accounting Software: It integrates well with other accounting software, ensuring seamless financial management.
- Detailed Reporting: BillQuick provides comprehensive and customizable reports, which are essential for making informed business decisions.
Potential Alternatives
FreshBooks
FreshBooks is a cloud-based invoicing and accounting software that is simpler and more user-friendly compared to BillQuick. It offers streamlined invoice creation, integrated time tracking, expense tracking with tax categories, and insightful financial reports. However, it may not be suitable for businesses with complex inventory needs or larger organizations requiring comprehensive project management.Tipalti
Tipalti is a global payables and procurement automation software that offers advanced features such as supplier onboarding, tax and regulatory compliance, and multi-entity payables reconciliation. It supports payments in 196 countries and 120 currencies, making it a strong alternative for businesses with international payment needs. Tipalti’s features are more extensive than BillQuick, especially in global AP capabilities and integration with major ERPs.Spendesk
Spendesk is an all-in-one spend management platform that tracks spending in real-time, empowers teams with budgets, and offers virtual cards for secure payments. It is particularly useful for fast-growing start-ups to mid-sized businesses with complex spending needs. Spendesk’s strengths include real-time spending tracking, easy approvals, and cost claims handling, which are not as prominently featured in BillQuick.Plooto
Plooto is an accounts payable and receivable platform that provides total control and visibility into cash flow management. It supports automatic reconciliation, two-way sync, and custom approval tiers. Plooto is geared towards small to medium businesses looking to streamline their AR and AP workflows and reduce operating costs. Its real-time payment tracking and simplified payment workflows are notable advantages over BillQuick.MineralTree
MineralTree is another alternative that focuses on automating accounts payable processes. It integrates with a wide range of enterprise resource planning systems, making it suitable for companies of all sizes. MineralTree offers features like automated invoice capture and payment approval workflows, which can be more efficient than BillQuick’s processes.Key Considerations
When choosing an alternative to BillQuick, consider the following:- Billing and Accounting Integration: Ensure the alternative offers seamless integration with your existing accounting software.
- Detailed Reporting: Look for comprehensive and customizable reporting capabilities.
- Project Management Capabilities: If project management is crucial, choose a tool that offers robust project management features.
- User Experience: Consider the ease of use and the learning curve, especially if your team is not tech-savvy.
- Scalability: Select a tool that can grow with your business needs, whether it’s in terms of features or the number of users.
BillQuick - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about BillQuick
What are the different versions of BillQuick available?
BillQuick is offered in two main versions: BillQuick and BillQuick Online. The on-premise version, BillQuick, comes in three separate editions: Basic, Pro, and Enterprise. BillQuick Online is the cloud version, suitable for companies that prefer not to host data and maintain servers themselves.
What are the key features of BillQuick?
BillQuick includes a variety of project management features such as real-time project and resource management, color-coded assignments and calendars, and the ability to attach documents and images to records. It also offers time tracking via calendars, spreadsheets, or a stopwatch, and manages overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances. Additionally, it has comprehensive accounting and billing features, including invoice templates, payment processing, and detailed financial reports.
How much does BillQuick cost?
BillQuick offers a range of pricing plans. The basic plan starts at around $8 per user per month, while the professional plan can go up to $20 per user per month. For larger enterprises, custom pricing plans are available. The cost per user decreases as the number of users increases. For example, for 100 users, the cost is $9.95 per user per month.
What is the implementation process and cost for BillQuick?
Implementation costs for BillQuick vary based on the size and complexity of the business. Small businesses may expect costs between $500 to $2,000 with a timeline of 2-4 weeks. Medium-sized businesses could incur costs between $2,000 to $5,000 with a timeline of 1-2 months. Large enterprises may see implementation costs exceeding $5,000 with timelines beyond 2 months.
Can BillQuick be integrated with other accounting systems?
Yes, BillQuick can be integrated with various accounting systems, such as Intuit QuickBooks and Sage. This integration allows for seamless data transfer and synchronization between different financial management tools.
What devices and platforms does BillQuick support?
BillQuick is available on multiple platforms, including desktop, mobile, and cloud. It is compatible with various devices such as PCs, laptops, iPads, and iPhones, and works with browsers like Safari, Mozilla Firefox, and Internet Explorer.
Does BillQuick offer customizable reporting features?
Yes, BillQuick has a Reporting Center where users can create reports from over 500 templates. Users can also customize their own reports with company logos, colors, and other details. Reports can be reused and tagged as favorites, and users can customize their dashboards to display key performance indicators (KPIs).
How does BillQuick handle time and expense tracking?
BillQuick allows users to track employee time via calendars, spreadsheets, or a stopwatch. Time sheets can be automatically populated with data from previous weeks. The system also tracks overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances. Expense tracking is also integrated, allowing users to log and manage expenses efficiently.
What kind of customer support does BillQuick offer?
BillQuick is known for its responsive customer service. Users have reported that issues are sorted out quickly, and the support team is helpful in resolving any problems that arise.
Is there a free trial available for BillQuick?
Yes, BillQuick offers a free trial for both its Professional and Enterprise plans, allowing potential users to test the software before committing to a purchase.
Can BillQuick be customized to meet specific business needs?
Yes, BillQuick can be customized to meet the specific needs of an organization. However, customizing the software can be a costly process, especially if it requires significant development or integration work. The cost of customization can range from a few thousand dollars to several hundred thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the work.
BillQuick - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of BillQuick
BillQuick, developed by BQE Software, is a comprehensive project management and accounting solution that caters specifically to the needs of service-oriented businesses, including architects, engineers, consultants, IT firms, accounting companies, and more.
Key Features and Benefits
- Integrated Platform: BillQuick combines time tracking, expense management, invoicing, and reporting into a single, user-friendly application. This integration simplifies workflows, enhances accuracy, and provides valuable financial insights.
- Time Tracking and Project Management: The software allows for real-time management of projects and resources, tracking of employee time, and monitoring of overtime, sick leave, and vacation balances. It also features color-coded task designations and calendars.
- Accounting and Billing: BillQuick includes a centralized collection center for payment history and customer details, over 100 customizable invoice templates, and the ability to process credit card payments and write checks. It also offers a Reporting Center with over 500 report templates.
- Customization and Automation: Users can create custom reports, dashboards, and workflows. The software also automates approval processes, invoicing, and expense categorization, saving significant time for accounting teams.
- Compliance and Security: BillQuick ensures compliance with DCAA standards and offers role-based access control to manage sensitive data securely.
- Mobile Accessibility: The software is accessible via a mobile app, allowing users to manage time tracking, invoicing, and expenses on the go.
Who Would Benefit Most
BillQuick is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses in service-oriented industries. Here are some key beneficiaries:
- Service Professionals: Architects, engineers, consultants, and other service professionals can streamline their billing and project management processes.
- IT Firms and Accounting Companies: These firms can leverage BillQuick’s time tracking, project management, and accounting features to improve efficiency.
- Construction and Architecture Firms: These firms can benefit from the software’s ability to manage multiple projects, track resources, and ensure DCAA compliance.
Overall Recommendation
BillQuick is a highly recommended solution for businesses seeking to integrate their project management, time tracking, and accounting processes. Here’s why:
- User-Friendly Interface: The software is intuitive and easy to use, even for non-technical users.
- Customization: It offers extensive customization options for invoices, reports, and dashboards, allowing businesses to align the software with their specific needs.
- Automation: Automated processes such as recurring invoices and expense categorization save time and reduce errors.
- Comprehensive Reporting: The Reporting Center provides valuable insights into financial performance, project status, and resource utilization.
Overall, BillQuick is an excellent choice for businesses looking to simplify their operations, improve billing processes, and achieve greater financial control. Its flexibility in deployment (on-premise or cloud) and multi-currency support make it a versatile tool for businesses operating internationally as well.