Pandle - Detailed Review
Finance Tools
Pandle - Detailed Review Contents
Add a header to begin generating the table of contents
Pandle - Product Overview
Pandle Overview
Pandle is a free cloud-based accounting software that simplifies financial management for small businesses, freelancers, and individuals. Here’s a brief overview of its primary function, target audience, and key features:Primary Function
Pandle is created to streamline financial tasks such as managing bank connections, tracking income and expenses, generating invoices, and automating bill payments. It aims to make accounting easier and more accessible.Target Audience
Pandle is specifically aimed at small business owners, freelancers, and accountants, particularly those in the UK. It is designed to be user-friendly, making it an ideal solution for those who may not have extensive accounting knowledge.Key Features
Bank Connections
Users can easily connect their bank accounts to track financial activities.Invoicing and Expenses
Pandle allows users to generate invoices and manage their expenses efficiently.Automated Bill Payments
The software can automate bill payments, reducing the need for manual intervention.Reports and Financial Tracking
Users can generate reports and track their income and expenses with ease.Intuitive Interface
Pandle boasts a simple, clean, and easy-to-navigate interface, reducing confusion and errors in data entry. The software uses algorithms to check for potential issues in user data and alerts users if entries may not be correct. Overall, Pandle is a straightforward and intuitive accounting solution that helps small businesses and freelancers manage their finances effectively. Pandle - User Interface and Experience
Pandle Overview
Pandle, a cloud-based accounting software, is renowned for its user-friendly interface and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for small business owners, especially those in the UK.User Interface
The interface of Pandle is clean, intuitive, and free from clutter. The main dashboard provides a quick overview of your financial situation, featuring clear graphs and charts that give you a snapshot of your business’s financial health at a glance. The menu is well-organized, making it easy to find all the features you need with just a few clicks.Ease of Use
Pandle is designed to be simple and straightforward, even for users with no prior accounting experience. The software allows you to import bank transactions directly, categorize them, and reconcile your accounts with ease. This automation saves time and reduces the risk of errors. Features like bulk editing and transaction locking further simplify the bookkeeping process, enabling you to manage multiple transactions efficiently.Real-Time Data and Automation
Pandle integrates seamlessly with your bank accounts and payment platforms like Stripe and PayPal, allowing for real-time transaction imports. This feature ensures your financial data is always up-to-date, enabling you to make informed decisions quickly. Automatic bank feeds and categorization of transactions also streamline your bookkeeping tasks.Invoicing and Reporting
Creating and sending professional invoices is straightforward with Pandle. You can customize invoices with your logo and branding, set up recurring invoices, and track payments. The software also generates various financial reports, such as cash flow, balance sheet, and profit and loss statements, keeping you informed about your business’s financial health.Support and Guidance
Pandle offers excellent customer support, including a live chat service available during business hours. This allows you to get immediate assistance with any questions or issues. Additionally, the software provides product tours, guides, and a comprehensive FAQs section to help you get the most out of the features.Overall User Experience
The overall user experience with Pandle is positive, with users praising its ease of use and the quality of customer support. The software is intuitive enough for beginners yet comprehensive enough to meet the needs of more experienced users. The ability to manage various aspects of your business finances, from invoicing and payroll to project tracking and inventory management, makes Pandle a valuable tool for small business owners. Pandle - Key Features and Functionality
Pandle is a comprehensive cloud-based accounting software that offers a wide range of features to help small businesses, freelancers, and individuals manage their finances efficiently. Here are the main features and how they work:
Banking
Pandle allows you to sync your bank accounts, automatically importing your transactions. This feature includes:- Bank Feeds: Connect your bank accounts to import transactions automatically.
- Stripe Feeds and PayPal Feeds: Integrate other payment platforms.
- Bank Rules: Automate the categorization of transactions.
- Bank Imports and Manual Entry: Options for importing transactions manually if needed.
Invoicing
Pandle streamlines your invoicing process with features such as:- Invoices: Create and send professional invoices with your logo and branding.
- Quotes: Generate quotes for potential clients.
- Pandle Pay: Facilitate payments directly from the invoice.
- Payment Reminders: Automatically send reminders to customers who have not paid.
Mileage Tracker
The mileage tracker helps you accurately log your business miles and convert them into expenses for tax purposes.- Automatic Mileage Tracking: Track miles automatically.
- Manual Trip Entry: Enter trips manually if needed.
- Store Vehicle Info: Keep records of your vehicles.
Reporting
Pandle provides a range of reporting tools to give you insights into your business’s financial health.- Profit and Loss: View your profit and loss statements.
- Payables and Receivables: Track your accounts payable and receivable.
- Cash Flow Forecasting: Forecast your cash flow to make informed decisions.
- Balance Sheet and Trial Balance: Access these critical financial reports.
VAT Software
Pandle’s VAT software is Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliant, allowing you to:- Calculate, Complete, and Submit VAT Returns: Directly to HMRC.
- VAT Submissions and VAT Reports: Manage and generate VAT-related reports.
Collaboration
Pandle supports multi-user access, enabling collaboration with your team and accountant.- Unlimited Users: Add as many users as needed.
- User Permissions: Control what each user can access and do.
Accounting
Pandle offers a range of accounting features, including:- Multiple Currencies: Manage transactions in different currencies.
- Recurring Transactions: Set up recurring transactions for regular expenses or income.
- Bulk Editing: Edit multiple transactions at once.
- Transaction Locking: Lock transactions to prevent accidental changes.
- Multi Company Management: Manage multiple companies from a single account.
Items (Stock Control)
You can create items for the products and services you buy and sell, and:- Track Stock Levels: Automatically track stock levels and manage your inventory.
- Products and Services: Create items for both products and services.
Receipt Uploads
Pandle allows you to upload and organize your financial records and receipts.- Upload from Pandle Mobile: Upload receipts using the mobile app.
- No Upload Limits: Upload as many receipts as you need.
AI Integration
While Pandle itself does not explicitly integrate AI into its core features, its API and integration capabilities allow for potential AI-driven enhancements. For example, developers can use Pandle’s REST APIs and webhooks to integrate with other AI services, enabling more advanced automation and data analysis. However, as of the current information, there is no direct AI integration within Pandle’s standard features. In summary, Pandle is a user-friendly and efficient accounting software that covers a wide range of financial management needs, from banking and invoicing to reporting and VAT compliance, without explicit AI integration in its core functions. Pandle - Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating Pandle: Performance and Accuracy
Evaluating the performance and accuracy of Pandle, a finance and accounting software, involves looking at several key aspects of its functionality, user feedback, and any identified limitations.
Performance
Pandle is generally praised for its ease of use and the range of features it offers. Here are some highlights:
Banking and Transaction Management
Pandle allows users to sync their bank accounts, import transactions, and categorize them efficiently. However, some users have reported issues with getting the bank feed feature to work, even though their banks are listed.
Invoicing and Reporting
The software streamlines the invoicing process and provides comprehensive reporting tools, including profit and loss statements, payables and receivables, and cash flow forecasting. Users have found these features to be very useful for managing their finances.
VAT Software
Pandle is MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliant, which is a significant advantage for UK businesses. It enables users to calculate, complete, and submit VAT returns directly to HMRC.
Customer Support
The live chat support is highly praised by users, who find it responsive and helpful. This support is often cited as one of the best features of Pandle.
Accuracy
In terms of accuracy, Pandle generally performs well, but there are a few areas where improvements are needed:
Transaction Entry and Speed
Some users have reported that the software can be slow, particularly when entering large volumes of data. This lag is attributed to the cloud-based nature of the software.
Credit Notes and General Entries
There is a limitation in posting general credit notes, as they must be posted against a specific invoice. This can be inconvenient for users who need to handle payments on account.
Nominal Codes
Users have noted that allocating and changing nominal codes can be difficult at times, which might affect the accuracy of financial records.
Limitations and Areas for Improvement
User Interface and Intuitiveness
Some users find the layout of Pandle not very intuitive, which can make it difficult to use, especially for those new to accounting software. There have been reports of users experiencing frustration with the interface and the time it takes to enter data.
Speed and Performance
As mentioned, the software can be slow, especially when handling large datasets. This is an area where Pandle could improve to enhance user experience.
Specific Features
The inability to post general credit notes without linking them to a specific invoice is a notable limitation. Additionally, the process of entering the same expense multiple times across different accounts can be cumbersome.
Conclusion
Pandle is a solid choice for businesses looking for an affordable and feature-rich accounting solution. Its strengths include excellent customer support, comprehensive reporting tools, and MTD compliance. However, it faces some challenges related to user interface intuitiveness, speed, and specific feature limitations. Overall, while Pandle is accurate and functional, addressing these areas could further enhance its performance and user satisfaction.
Pandle - Pricing and Plans
Pandle Pricing Overview
Pandle offers a straightforward and cost-effective pricing structure, making it an attractive option for small businesses and accountants in the UK.Free Plan
Pandle’s free plan is indeed free forever, with no usage limits or hidden fees. Here are some of the key features included in the free version:Key Features:
- Bank imports: Though not automated, you can import bank statements.
- Send quotes & invoices
- Business reports
- Mobile app
- Accept payments with Pandle Pay
- Payment reminders
- Multiple currencies
- VAT submissions
- Recurring transactions
- Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliant for VAT submissions.
Pandle Pro
For additional features, you can upgrade to Pandle Pro, which costs £5 per month plus VAT. Here are the extra features you get with Pandle Pro:Additional Features:
- Bank feeds: Automated bank imports.
- Receipt uploads
- Projects
- Cash flow forecasting
- User permissions
- PayPal feeds
- Premium invoice templates
- Mileage tracker
- Live chat support
Pandle Partner Programme
For accountants, Pandle offers a Partner Programme that is free to join. As a Pandle Partner, you can add an unlimited number of clients without buying any licenses. Your clients can also get Pandle Pro at a discounted rate of £2.50 per month (50% off the regular price). This plan includes all the features of Pandle Pro, along with additional tools for managing client accounts, such as transaction locking, wages adjustments, and comprehensive user permissions. Pandle - Integration and Compatibility
Pandle: A Versatile Cloud-Based Accounting Solution
Pandle, a cloud-based accounting solution, offers several integration and compatibility features that make it versatile and user-friendly for small businesses.Integrations with Other Tools
One of the key integration capabilities of Pandle is its ability to connect with other business applications. For instance, Pandle can be integrated with Zoho CRM using Zoho Flow. This integration allows for the automation of various business workflows without the need for coding. Here are some of the triggers and actions supported by this integration:Triggers
- Creation of a new supplier invoice
- Addition of a new customer or supplier
- Creation of a new project or quote
- Updates to existing deals or module entries
Actions
- Creating new suppliers, customers, or projects
- Updating project details
- Converting quotes to invoices
- Sending mail merges or email templates
Compatibility Across Different Platforms and Devices
Pandle is highly compatible across various platforms and devices, ensuring that users can manage their accounting tasks from anywhere.Desktop and Web
- Pandle can be accessed via its web interface, allowing users to manage their accounting activities, including invoicing, banking, and reporting, from any computer with an internet connection.
Mobile App
- The Pandle Mobile app is available for iOS, iPadOS, and macOS, enabling users to manage customers and suppliers, create and send quotes and invoices, track transactions, and upload receipts on the go. The app supports real-time bank feeds, mileage tracking, and project finance management.
Banking and Payment Integrations
- Pandle seamlessly integrates with various bank accounts and payment platforms such as Stripe and PayPal, allowing for automatic import of transactions and real-time financial updates.
User Collaboration and Access
Pandle also supports unlimited users with customizable permissions, making it easy for businesses to collaborate with employees and accountants. This feature ensures that multiple users can access and manage the bookkeeping data without any restrictions.Conclusion
In summary, Pandle’s integration capabilities with tools like Zoho CRM and its compatibility across different devices and platforms make it a flexible and efficient accounting solution for small businesses. Whether you are using the desktop version, web interface, or mobile app, Pandle provides a comprehensive set of features to streamline your accounting activities. Pandle - Customer Support and Resources
Pandle Customer Support Overview
Pandle, a cloud-based accounting solution, offers a range of customer support options and additional resources to ensure users can make the most out of their finance tools.Live Chat Support
One of the standout features of Pandle’s customer support is the unlimited live chat support provided by a team of trained bookkeepers. This service is available to all users, whether you are an accountant, a small business owner, or a self-employed individual. The live chat support is accessible whenever you need it, providing immediate assistance with any questions or issues you might encounter.Comprehensive Help Centre
Pandle has a dedicated help centre that includes FAQs, relevant articles, and Pandle tours. These resources are designed to help users find answers to common questions and learn how to use the various features of the software efficiently.Regular Updates and Security
Pandle ensures that their software is regularly updated with new features and security enhancements. This means users benefit from the latest improvements and security measures, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of their financial data.User Permissions and Collaboration
For businesses that require multiple users to access the bookkeeping system, Pandle offers unlimited users and user permissions. This allows for seamless collaboration between employees and accountants, and the support team is available to help with any issues related to user management.Financial Tools and Features
Pandle provides a wide array of financial tools, including invoicing, mileage tracking, VAT submissions, and detailed reporting. These features are supported by the customer support team, who can help users understand and utilize these tools effectively.Mobile Accessibility
Pandle’s mobile app allows users to manage their finances on the go. The support team is also available to assist with any mobile-related queries or issues, ensuring that users can access their financial data and tools wherever they are.Community and Feedback
While the primary support is through live chat and the help centre, user reviews and feedback are also valued. Pandle encourages users to provide feedback, which helps in improving the software and support services over time.Conclusion
In summary, Pandle’s customer support is centered around providing immediate and knowledgeable assistance through live chat, backed by a comprehensive help centre and regular software updates. This ensures that users have all the resources they need to manage their finances efficiently. Pandle - Pros and Cons
Advantages of Pandle
Pandle offers several significant advantages that make it a viable option for individuals and businesses looking for efficient accounting software:Ease of Use
Pandle is praised for its simplicity and intuitive interface. The software is easy to use, even for those who are not tech-savvy, thanks to its clean and clutter-free layout. The setup wizard helps in getting started quickly by asking for the necessary business information, ensuring that the correct features are loaded without the need for extensive settings adjustments.Customer Support
The customer support provided by Pandle is highly regarded. Users appreciate the live chat support, which is available in-app and on the website, and is provided by actual bookkeepers. Support responses are swift, concise, and precise.Features
Pandle includes a wide range of features that are comparable to more expensive accounting software. These features include bank imports, sending quotes and invoices, business reports, mobile app access, payment reminders, multiple currencies, VAT submissions, and recurring transactions. Additionally, the Pandle Pro version offers advanced features such as receipt uploads, projects, cash flow forecasting, user permissions, and stock control.Accuracy and Data Integrity
Pandle uses machine learning algorithms to check data entries for accuracy and alerts users to potential issues. It also blocks editing of transactions for submitted VAT returns and ensures that the financial year in Pandle matches Companies House records.Cost-Effectiveness
Pandle is highly competitive in terms of pricing, offering many features at a lower cost than other accounting software. It provides unlimited users, transactions, and support access, making it an attractive option for small businesses and sole traders.Disadvantages of Pandle
While Pandle has many advantages, there are also some notable disadvantages:Performance Issues
Some users have reported issues with the software’s speed, particularly when working with large datasets or on cloud-based operations. Despite fast internet connections, users have experienced lag and slow updates.Limited Advanced Features
Pandle may not be suitable for large organizations requiring complex reporting or built-in payroll functions. Although there is a workaround for payroll using wage journals, it is not as seamless as having an integrated payroll system.Specific Transaction Issues
Users have noted that certain transactions can be cumbersome to manage. For example, entering the same expense multiple times across different accounts can be time-consuming and less intuitive.General Credit Notes
Pandle does not allow for posting general credit notes that are not tied to a specific invoice, which can be a limitation for some users.Bank Reconciliation and Rules
Historically, Pandle had limitations in completing bank reconciliations and setting up bank rules, although it is mentioned that new features are being released regularly, which may have addressed some of these issues. Overall, Pandle is a solid choice for small to medium-sized businesses and individuals looking for easy-to-use, cost-effective accounting software with excellent customer support. However, it may not be the best fit for larger organizations or those requiring advanced payroll or complex reporting features. Pandle - Comparison with Competitors
Unique Features of Pandle
- Comprehensive Accounting Suite: Pandle offers a wide range of features including banking integration, invoicing, mileage tracking, and detailed financial reporting such as profit and loss statements, cash flow forecasting, and balance sheets.
- VAT Management: Pandle is Making Tax Digital (MTD) compliant, allowing users to calculate, complete, and submit VAT returns directly to HMRC. This feature is particularly beneficial for UK-based businesses.
- Stock Control and Inventory: Pandle includes tools for managing stock levels and inventory, which is not always available in other basic accounting software.
- Collaboration Tools: Pandle allows unlimited users with customizable permissions, making it easy to collaborate with accountants and other team members.
- Cost-Effective: Pandle is available for free, with a paid version starting at £5 VAT per month, making it an attractive option for small businesses.
Alternatives and Comparisons
Crunch
Crunch is another accounting service that Pandle is often compared to. While Crunch offers features like automated bank reconciliation and multiple currencies, it lacks some of the advanced features Pandle provides, such as stock control and project handling. Additionally, Crunch charges based on turnover or a flat monthly fee, which can be more expensive than Pandle’s pricing.
Advanced AI FP&A Tools
Tools like Planful, Workday, and Vena Solutions are more focused on financial planning and analysis (FP&A) with advanced AI capabilities. These tools are generally more suited for larger enterprises and mid-sized businesses that require extensive customization and real-time data insights. For example:
- Planful: Offers AI-powered solutions for financial forecasting and decision-making, but it is more geared towards larger financial operations.
- Workday: Integrates AI with its cloud infrastructure for real-time data insights and predictive analytics, which may be overkill for small businesses.
General Accounting Software
For small businesses looking for a straightforward accounting solution, Pandle competes with other cloud-based accounting software like QuickBooks or Xero. However, Pandle’s free version and lower pricing make it a more accessible option for many users.
AI Integration
While Pandle does not heavily emphasize AI-driven features like some of the more advanced FP&A tools, it does automate many processes such as transaction categorization, bank feeds, and VAT management. This automation helps in reducing manual errors and streamlining financial management, although it does not include the predictive analytics or intelligent forecasting seen in tools like Planful or Workday.
In summary, Pandle stands out as a user-friendly, cost-effective accounting solution with a broad range of features tailored for small businesses, particularly in the UK. Its strengths in VAT management, stock control, and collaboration make it a valuable choice for those seeking a comprehensive yet simple accounting tool.
Pandle - Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions about Pandle
What are the pricing plans for Pandle?
Pandle offers two main plans: a free plan and a Pandle Pro plan. The free plan is available forever and includes features such as bank imports, sending quotes and invoices, business reports, a mobile app, accepting payments with Pandle Pay, payment reminders, multiple currencies, no usage limits, VAT submissions, and recurring transactions. The Pandle Pro plan costs £5 per month plus VAT and includes all the features of the free plan plus additional features like bank feeds, receipt uploads, projects, cash flow forecasting, user permissions, PayPal feeds, stock control, mileage tracker, and live chat support.What is included in the free Pandle plan?
The free Pandle plan includes a range of features such as bank imports, sending quotes and invoices, business reports, a mobile app, accepting payments with Pandle Pay, payment reminders, multiple currencies, no usage limits, VAT submissions, and recurring transactions. This plan is free forever and has no usage limits.What are the additional features of Pandle Pro?
Pandle Pro includes all the features of the free plan plus several additional features. These include bank feeds, receipt uploads, projects, cash flow forecasting, user permissions, PayPal feeds, stock control, a mileage tracker, and live chat support. These features are aimed at improving the accuracy and efficiency of your bookkeeping.How do I upgrade to Pandle Pro?
To upgrade to Pandle Pro, you can start with a 14-day free trial. After the trial period, you will be given the option to continue with Pandle Pro or downgrade to the free plan. To upgrade, simply head to your settings, click on your subscription type, and follow the instructions to upgrade to Pandle Pro.Can I cancel my Pandle Pro subscription at any time?
Yes, you can cancel your Pandle Pro account at any time without any contracts or penalties. If you cancel, your account will revert to the free plan, and all your bookkeeping data will still be available. You won’t be billed again unless you restart Pandle Pro.Is my data secure with Pandle?
Yes, your data is secure with Pandle. All data is encrypted using a secure HTTP connection (128-bit SSL), which is the same technology used by banks to encrypt data on their websites.How does Pandle support Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT?
Pandle is a HMRC recognised software supplier and supports Making Tax Digital (MTD) for VAT. It allows you to manage and submit your VAT returns directly through the software, ensuring compliance with HMRC regulations.What is the Bank Rules feature in Pandle?
The Bank Rules feature in Pandle allows you to automate the categorization and assignment of tax codes to transactions. You can set up rules to automatically confirm transactions based on specific conditions, such as ‘Money In’, ‘Money Out’, or specific amounts and descriptions. This feature helps in maximizing productivity and efficiency by reducing the need for manual transaction confirmation.Can I use Pandle if I have multiple users?
Yes, Pandle supports multiple users. The Pandle Pro plan includes user permissions, allowing you to manage access for different users. Additionally, there are no limits on the number of users you can add to your account.How do I get started with Pandle?
To get started with Pandle, you simply need to sign up for a free account on their website. You can then explore the features of the free plan or opt for a 14-day free trial of Pandle Pro. Once you’ve created your account, you can set up various features such as bank feeds, invoicing, and payment reminders. Pandle - Conclusion and Recommendation
Final Assessment of Pandle
Pandle is a comprehensive and user-friendly cloud-based accounting solution that is particularly well-suited for small to medium-sized businesses, especially those based in the UK.Key Benefits
- Ease of Use: Pandle is known for its simplicity and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for businesses that may not have extensive accounting expertise. The platform offers a straightforward setup and intuitive interface, allowing users to focus more on their core business activities.
- Automated Features: Pandle automates many financial tasks, such as transaction categorization, bank feeds, and VAT management. This automation helps in reducing manual input errors and ensures that financial records are accurate and up-to-date.
- Comprehensive Reporting: The platform provides a range of reporting tools, including profit and loss statements, payables and receivables, cash flow forecasting, and balance sheets. These reports help businesses make informed financial decisions.
- Invoicing and Payment Management: Pandle streamlines the invoicing process with features like bulk invoice emailing, payment reminders, and integration with payment gateways like Stripe and PayPal. This ensures that businesses can manage their money efficiently and never miss a payment.
- VAT Compliance: Pandle is MTD (Making Tax Digital) compliant, making it easy for businesses to calculate, complete, and submit their VAT returns directly to HMRC.
- Collaboration: The platform allows unlimited users with customizable user permissions, facilitating collaboration between employees and accountants.
Who Would Benefit Most
Pandle is ideal for:- Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs): Businesses with limited resources will appreciate the cost-effective and scalable solutions offered by Pandle.
- Accountants and Bookkeepers: Professionals in these roles can efficiently manage multiple clients’ accounts, produce sets of accounts quickly, and benefit from excellent customer support.
- Businesses Needing VAT Management: Companies that need to manage VAT obligations will find Pandle’s VAT handling features particularly useful.
- Those Requiring Multiple Currency Support: Businesses that deal with international transactions will benefit from Pandle’s support for multiple currencies and exchange rates.
Overall Recommendation
Pandle is a highly recommended accounting solution for its ease of use, comprehensive feature set, and excellent customer support. It is particularly beneficial for small to medium-sized businesses in the UK that need to streamline their financial management processes. The platform’s ability to automate various accounting tasks, provide detailed reporting, and ensure VAT compliance makes it a valuable tool for any business looking to manage its finances efficiently.For individuals or businesses considering accounting software, Pandle’s affordability, user-friendly interface, and continuous addition of new features make it a strong contender. The positive reviews from users highlight its effectiveness in solving common accountancy and bookkeeping problems, making it a reliable choice for those seeking a straightforward and efficient accounting solution.