We are still on the path of developing the SmartVault environment. I believe the best way to learn software is to do some dedicated hands on learning and then get professional training. Smart Vault provides one hour sessions to set up your computer settings, your SmartVault drive and advice on a variety of topics. Once I learn the most efficient way of migrating my files from my desktop, external hard drive and Dropbox, I will present that information in my next Blog. For now, here are some pros and cons for switching from the SmartVault team!
SmartVault vs Dropbox
SmartVault advantages – the product includes as part of the plan price:
— Certified security and an audit trail
— User Security Management, on a per user, even a per folder basis if that’s what you want or need
— Use QuickBooks? Their patented toolbar lets you attach source documents to QB entries or transactions is unmatched in the industry
— You can create in 20 mins. a professional, custom-branded portal for your clients
— No mapped drive in Dropbox – all your files have to be local. With SmartVault you can create a drive mapping not the the C:\ drive but to your Cloud storage location in SmartVault.
— They give away their Outlook plug-in that lets you share files, upload and share files, upload attachments and share those files, create a user and a folder on the fly and also request files from people you are sharing with, specifying the location in your cloud Vault where you would like them to land those files.
— Like Dropbox, they have unlimited guests on all plans.
DropBox advantages:
— DropBox is free – but only workable for a solo-practitioner
— Dropbox has “Open Links”- meaning you can share a doc that is not confidential or private to anyone without first inviting them to that folder. This is also called anonymous sharing. It is fast, but it is not secure sharing.
— Dropbox has sync built in to their product whereby you can schedule a sync of your docs on your desktop (stored locally) with those you are storing/hosting in your Dropbox.
— SmartVault employs sync but with a 3rd party vendor. You install their product, one of two that they recommend, then use that product to schedule a sync. Once installed, the sync is automatic. Installing and configuring is easy, but SmartVault can help you with that if need be.
What I really like is the ability to brand a site for exchanging and storing client files and the unlimited sharing capabilities with clients, team members and accountants.
My next training is to set up folders that are architected for efficiency. I will take my time developing the optimum compartmentalization before moving into this arena. Once I feel comfortable with my folder environment, I will start using my SmartVault Toolbar in my QuickBooks to attach documents that pertain to my accounting environment. I also have a portal to sign up for SmartVault and take the journey with me to achieve an optimum storage environment. Click on the link, select the level of plan that suits your needs and you can create an account that resides under my umbrella.
Tell me your story of how you achieved a successful storage environment. We’d love to hear from you!
