I’m currently in a class called Group Piano and Technology, for my masters program. We’re reviewing everything technology-related to teaching piano. I know that you use Music Teacher’s Helper and I was wondering if there are any other similar programs out there that compare. That was the only program of its kind that we discussed in the class and it would be nice to know if there’s something else out there just to “compare.”
Even before Music Teacher’s Helper was developed, I did some checking around to find a good bookkeeping software that would meet my needs. I downloaded a trial version of a software called Time Signature, but found that it didn’t fit the criteria of what I was looking for. So I continued for several years to battle the bookkeeping headache. My Dad, who is in the financial industry, even developed a custom Excel-based program that I used for a while. One of the main frustrations, though, with both of these approaches is that regardless of how meticulous I am in recording payments, handling scheduling, etc. there is no way for the studio families to access and view their records. That’s why I really love the online-based platform! in addition to the studio-wide accessibility, this also allows for constant updates and improvements without having to download and install new software.
All that said, I have been so pleased with Music Teacher’s Helper that I haven’t had any occasion to search around to see if there is anything comparable on the market. Has anyone else found another similar program for your studio bookkeeping? Feel free to leave any links or suggestions in the comments!
Remember, if you have a question you’d like to contribute to next week’s Monday Mailbag, leave it in the comments below or send me an e-mail sometime this week with Monday Mailbag in the subject line!
I use Quickbooks for bookkeeping only! It really helps the “book-keeping headache! It is simple to print reports to view delinquent accounts. Quickbooks is GREAT at tax time! If you use Turbo Tax, you can just click one button to import all your files! Quickbooks creates professional-looking documents and allows you to record from different collection methods at the same times! (invoice and record payments or just record money as received) As far as I know it does not offer an online platform so that students and parents can access the information anytime, but you can e-mail invoices directly to parents.
It doesn’t even compare to Music Teacher’s Helper for keeping up with specific music studio things, though! That said, I do plan to switch in the future. I would love to have my website, my accounts and so much else all in one place! Sounds weird but I think it would give me peace of mind.
eliz +:-D
Wow! Just the topic I came here to look for! I’ve read all of your thoughts on Music Teacher’s Helper and am glad for your opinion.