There have never been so many file-sharing tools to choose from. But that may not be as positive as it sounds. That’s because the best file-sharing platform for your needs is even harder to find.
In 2024, the file-sharing market is projected to grow by over 9% annually, reaching a value of $40 billion. That means even more platforms are on their way – and more choices for businesses.
But you’re a small or medium-sized business that needs to make every penny count, so you can’t afford to waste money on a secure file-sharing platform that doesn’t deliver.
Even if you choose the best file-sharing platform for business, there’s no guarantee that it’s the right one for YOUR business.
We hate the thought of businesses wasting money on inappropriate software, which is why we’ve put together our top five tips for finding the perfect file-sharing tool for your accounting needs.
1. Make Security Your Priority
Before you check out any of the functions and features on offer, make sure the file-sharing platforms you’re comparing all offer significant security features.
End-to-end encryption is a minimum requirement. To uphold your legal responsibilities in terms of GDPR compliance, you’ll need a platform that sends and stores fully encrypted data.
Take TeuPortal, for example. As well as offering a secure online presence and data encryption, it also offers Magic Link Authentication – which is even more secure than multi-factor authentication (MFA). Rather than sign in via a login web page, you gain access to your file-sharing account via a link sent to your email address.
2. Check for Cross-Platform Compatibility
What’s the best cross-platform file-sharing app for your business? It’s the one that offers maximum functionality at the best price.
Fortunately, there’s no shortage of file-sharing platforms on the market today. However, the challenge is finding one that works seamlessly across all devices and operating systems.
For businesses, especially accountancy firms with remote teams or clients, it’s crucial to choose a platform that isn’t limited to a single device or operating system. You need a tool that ensures everyone on your team – whether they’re using a PC, Mac, or a mobile device – can access and share files without a hitch.
3. Check for Ease of Integration
When you’re searching for the best file-sharing platform for your business, you can’t afford to overlook ease of use.
A complicated interface wastes time and creates frustration. Your team needs a platform that’s intuitive – where files can be uploaded, shared, and accessed with minimal effort.
The last thing you want is a tool that makes simple tasks harder than they need to be.
But ease of use is only part of the equation. Integration with your existing tools is just as important. Whether you’re using accounting software, project management tools, or communication apps, your file-sharing platform should fit seamlessly into your workflow.
The best platforms integrate with popular business tools, so you don’t have to juggle between apps or waste time transferring data from one system to another. This means fewer errors, less time spent on manual tasks, and more time for actual work.
4. Make Sure You Can Control Access
When you’re sharing files, especially in an accountancy firm, version control and access management are non-negotiable. You need to be able to track changes and know who’s accessing sensitive information. Without it, you risk confusion, mistakes, or even a breach of confidentiality.
The right file-sharing platform should give you full control over who can see and edit files. Look for features like permissions, where you can set who has access to specific documents.
Access control settings are essential for restricting file access based on roles or teams. File history tracking helps you see previous versions of a document, ensuring that you can always recover earlier drafts if needed. These tools help keep your files secure and ensure accountability in your team.
5. Ensure The Platform Offers Support
When it comes to file-sharing platforms, responsive customer support and platform reliability are crucial for accountancy firms. Time is money, and any downtime or technical issue can disrupt your workflow and affect client relationships.
You need a platform that’s not only reliable but also backed by a support team that’s available whenever you need it.
A solid support system ensures that any issues are resolved quickly – minimizing interruptions to your work. Look for platforms with 24/7 support, easy-to-access help resources, and quick response times.
Make sure you opt for a platform with a proven track record of maximum uptime and stability. After all, you never want to be left in the lurch when you need to share a critical file or collaborate with a client.
Your Search for the Best File Sharing Platform Ends Here
TeuPortal is a secure, user-friendly, and affordable secure file-sharing platform that makes collaboration a breeze. To check it out, contact our team today for a demonstration.