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HOW WE COMPARE

You Need a Document Management System with Your Practice Management System

Practice management systems are undoubtedly valuable given their crucial role in helping firms run smoothly. But relying on a PM system for your document management and client portal needs doesn’t just create inefficiencies – it can pose serious risks to your firm.

Practice Management Systems Excel in Many Areas

If you’re using practice management software like Canopy, Karbon, Financial Cents, or TaxDome, you’re already on the right track to keeping your accounting firm organized and efficient. These tools are great for managing tasks, staying on top of deadlines, and keeping your team connected.

Task Management

Organize and track tasks to stay on top of all client and internal projects.

Scheduling and Activity Timelines

Manage deadlines effectively and maintain a clear overview of ongoing projects.

Time and Billing

Efficiently record billable hours and generate accurate invoices for clients.

… Just Not in Document Management and Security

Using FileCabinet CS comes with a hefty price tag – not in dollars, but in lost opportunities, inefficiencies, and security risks.

Inefficiency

Poor document organization, disorganized folders, manual processes, and limited search capabilities waste time, decrease productivity, and ultimately frustrate your team and clients.

No Scalability

Storage, capacity, users, file sizes – all things many PM systems cap, meaning you’ll hit roadblocks or need to shell out more money if you ever want to grow your practice.

Security Issues

Inadequate security measures and compliance features can lead to unauthorized access, data loss, regulatory issues, loss of business, and hefty fines.
Feature Comparison:

SmartVault vs. Practice Management

All-in-one systems promise everything but deliver underdeveloped, clunky features that don’t work well. We encourage you to contact us to learn how SmartVault is different.

This table highlights the key features that differentiate these solutions:

 
SmartVault
Typical PM Systems
Ability to scale with unlimited storage and clients
Yes
No
Enhanced data security with SmartVault vs. Practice Management Systems:
Key Value Differences bank-grade encryption and comprehensive compliance (SOC 2 Type 2, IRS 4557)
Yes
No
Streamlined client collaboration with user-friendly, branded portal
Yes
No
Efficient document collection with customizable, automated requests
Yes
No
Time-saving advanced search with OCR capabilities
Yes
No
Seamless integration with multiple tax software systems
Yes
No
Cost-effective document management as your 
practice grows
Yes
No
Automated document routing to reduce errors 
and save time
Yes
No
Comprehensive version control and audit trails for enhanced security and compliance
Yes
No
Flexibility to create custom templates for 
various document types
Yes
No
Ability to easily retrieve deleted documents 
with Recycle Bin feature
Yes
No
Mobile access for on-the-go productivity
Yes
No

Practice Management + Document Management = A Winning Combo

Practice management can only take you so far when it comes to organizing and securing your critical documents. That’s where SmartVault comes in. Our DMS is built specifically for accountants to make your workflow even smoother and more secure.

Purpose-Built for Accounting

Unlike generic DMS systems, SmartVault is designed with accountants in mind. Our system automates folder structures and workflows, streamlining document storage and retrieval during tax seasons, audits, and beyond.

Seamless Document Organization

While practice management tools organize tasks, SmartVault organizes your documents. We integrate smoothly with popular tax and accounting software like Intuit Lacerte and UltraTax CS, allowing you to file and manage all client records in one central, secure location.

Compliance and Security at the Core

Protecting sensitive client information is a non-negotiable. SmartVault’s SOC 2 Type 2 compliant and offers encryption, granular permission controls, audit trails, and activity logs—features essential to maintaining compliance with standards like IRS 4557 and FTC Safeguards.

Streamline Document Collection and Client Collaboration

The biggest time sink for accounting firms is often gathering and organizing client documents. Practice management software can’t solve this issue entirely. SmartVault makes document collection easier by allowing clients to upload securely to their respective folders, reducing the back-and-forth emails and manual work. Plus, you can send engagement letters and eSignatures directly from the platform.

Scalability for Growing Firms

Whether you’re a small firm or a growing enterprise, SmartVault scales with you. Practice management tools help manage your growing client base, but as your workload expands, you’ll need more robust document handling. SmartVault’s secure and structured DMS ensures that every document is stored in the right place, accessible anytime, and auditable when needed.

Integration is Key

SmartVault integrates with your existing tech stack, enhancing practice management tools like Canopy, Karbon, Financial Cents, and TaxDome. By adding SmartVault, you gain a comprehensive solution that not only helps you manage tasks but also handles documents with the utmost security, compliance, and efficiency.

Beyond Practice Management: Why Your Accounting Firm Needs a Dedicated Document Management System

Written for accounting professionals by industry experts, this guide provides actionable insights to help you build a more efficient, secure, and profitable practice through smart technology choices.

SmartVault’s Accounting-Specific DMS Powers Efficiency, Scalability, and Security

Eliminate the above risks with SmartVault, a DMS and client portal that complements any practice management system.
Efficiency: Streamlined Workflows and Time-Saving Processes

SmartVault transforms your document management process, boosting productivity for both your team and clients.

  • Access and collaborate on documents securely from anywhere, anytime
  • Locate files quickly with advanced search and consistent organization
  • Accelerate workflows using accounting-specific templates
  • Reduce errors and boost productivity with intelligent auto-routing
  • Integrate seamlessly with your existing tech stack
  • Simplify document collection using custom request lists
  • Streamline approvals and signatures with integrated eSignature tools
  • Improve collaboration through secure, real-time document sharing
  • Reduce back-and-forth communication with centralized document management
Scalability: Unlimited Growth Potential

With SmartVault, your practice can expand without worrying about system limitations or unexpected costs.

  • Enjoy unlimited storage and client capacity to support your growing practice
  • Maintain consistency with standardized folder structures and workflow automations when adding new staff or clients
  • Transition completely to a paperless office, reducing physical storage needs
  • Scale efficiently, like user Nick Boscia who doubled his client base while working fewer hours
  • Impress clients with a branded, secure file-sharing portal
  • Enhance customer service with convenient, 24/7 client access
  • Adapt to growing needs without hitting storage or user limits
Security: Robust Protection and Compliance

SmartVault prioritizes the security of your sensitive information and helps you meet regulatory requirements effortlessly.

  • Safeguard sensitive financial data with bank-grade encryption measures
  • Control access precisely with customizable user permissions
  • Track all activities with comprehensive audit trails for compliance
  • Enhance security with two-factor authentication
  • Protect against data loss with continuous, automatic backups
  • Maintain document integrity with version tracking
  • Meet regulatory requirements with SOC 2 Type 2 compliance
  • Ensure data security and compliance with robust measures and reporting
Frequently Asked Questions

Have Questions? We’ve Got Answers.

Why can't I just use my practice management system for document management?

SmartVault maintains near 100% uptime even during the busiest tax seasons. This reliability is crucial for maintaining productivity and meeting client deadlines.

How does SmartVault complement my existing practice management system?

SmartVault offers an easy-to-use platform that requires minimal training. This allows firms to onboard new staff and clients quickly.

What key features does SmartVault offer that most practice management systems don't?

SmartVault provides extensive training and support, ensuring you can maximize the platform’s potential.

Is SmartVault more secure than storing documents in my practice management system?

SmartVault’s integrated features, from client intake to eSignature and document management, create a seamless workflow that saves time and reduces errors. SmartVault offers a complete end-to-end solution without the need for multiple modules.

How does SmartVault help my firm scale compared to using a practice management system for document storage?

With SOC 2 Type 2 Compliance and support for IRS standards, FTC Safeguards, FINRA, SEC, and GLBA regulations, SmartVault ensures your sensitive client data is protected while supporting compliance with regulations.

How does SmartVault improve client experience compared to using a practice management portal?

SmartVault offers unlimited cloud storage and client capacity, allowing your firm to grow without constraints.

How difficult is it to migrate my documents from my practice management system to SmartVault?

SmartVault is more than just a software provider – we’re a partner in your firm’s success. Our commitment to your growth and efficiency, coupled with our accounting industry focus, sets us apart from competitors like Drake Documents.

Will I lose any functionality by using SmartVault for document management instead of my practice management system?

SmartVault is more than just a software provider – we’re a partner in your firm’s success. Our commitment to your growth and efficiency, coupled with our accounting industry focus, sets us apart from competitors like Drake Documents.