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> Second, the fact that Quickbooks is so awkward and inconsistent to use isn't a UI problem, it's a feature. This is an important lesson in designing software t

> Second, the fact that Quickbooks is so awkward and inconsistent to use isn't a UI problem, it's a feature. This is an important lesson in designing software that people use for their jobs. This is an interesting point but isn't there a risk that this will backfire long term? Existing bookkeepers may stick to Intuit, but if a new bookkeeper can learn Pilot.com in half the time, and without a class, won't they be able to get customers at a lower price, and eventually cut into Intuit's business that way? Edit: And also this doesn't account for DIY customers, for whom any time above 0 is too much spent on bookkeeping, and would definitely value an easier product.

bluGill 9y ago
In the world of bookkeeping only accountants apply. Because of the complexity of tax laws you need to be an accountant to figure them out - it isn't worth your time unless you will use it constantly. It is a boring an tedious subject with legal implications if you get it wrong: you are better off focusing on your own business and letting an accountant take care of these details. Thus if your accountant asks you to enter your spending into some program you buy that program and enter the details. Every few months your accountant files some forms, and once in a while gives you some spending advice. The last thing accountants want is for business owners to decide that their accountant isn't cost effective vs. do it themselves. Most of the forms an accountant fills out are automated. The only thing left is audit (the numbers add up, but do they make sense?), and advice.