Xero and Apple - the perfect match for SMBs?

Cloud accounting software specialists Xero are pursuing small businesses using Apple devices with solutions designed to leverage the power of the iOS platform.

"Xero is used millions of times a week on Apple devices worldwide," the company says in a statement. It says over 70% of Xero users access Xero Touch through the iOS platform.

During its Q2 2015 earnings call, Apple announced it is working closely with a select group of software providers to bring innovative mobile solutions to customers seeking to transform their businesses using iOS devices. As part of this initiative, Xero is delivering enhancements to its core offering to enable a set of 'mobile¬first' solutions for small businesses on the iPhone and iPad.

"We have seen tremendous demand for iOS solutions from customers around the globe as they look to transform the way they manage their businesses in today's mobile world," says Rod Drury, CEO, Xero.

"iOS is key to our customers' success and we're focused on creating a beautiful, design-led experience that not only delights users, but helps them run their businesses effortlessly and flawlessly.

Working alongside cloud-based retail software firm Vend and cloud-based people management platform Deputy, Xero is launching a retail solution for small businesses owners to manager their businesses on any iOS device.

"Xero, Vend and Deputy work together seamlessly so small business owners can manage their retail business from any iOS device, anytime, anywhere," says James Maiocco, general manager, corporate and business development, Xero.

"Our integrated solution gives retailers a flexible and scalable platform they can easily use to run their businesses right from their iPads and iPhones.

Daily sales, captured in Vend, post directly to the right categories in Xero, so accounts are automatically updated without any manual intervention, Maiocco explains. "Xero and Vend together form a complete online accounting, point of sale, and inventory management solution ¬¬ all run from any iPad or iPhone.

Deputy employee scheduling, time and attendance software enables small businesses to assign available staff and then create and publish staff schedules quickly.

The Deputy platform integrates directly with Xero, where timesheets created and approved by small business owners in Deputy are automatically posted in Xero payroll. This integration automates the employee payroll process and provides customers access to reports in Xero to evaluate their overall business performance at a glance from any iPad or iPhone.