OneDrive vs. Suralink

I'll start with what I would not use OneDrive for! I would not use it as a primary source for code repository, there are other more robust tools out there that can help you with storing and making available code repos. Where I would use OneDrive is in a platform for managing files, and with that I mean any file that can be saved offline and access a OneDrive access point, share, or mount. This could be personal, business, or data from a system that is saved in a standard file format. The OneDrive platform is great for documents collaboration as well, with the ability to allow for share and links to be provided to for easy access and collaboration. I would also recommend if you are someone who likes to use cloud services and rely less and less on offline storage. OneDrive excels in this area!

SuraLink makes perfect sense for a CPA firm that works with a number of clients. It provides easy access, and well-presented display of each client and the corresponding files provided. The security of the files is also imperative for sensitive client information. The format of the portal also allows for ease of understanding which files coordinate to what requests. This is in contrast to a something like a "drop-box" in which it is simply a list of files. This may not be the proper product for a smaller operation that only seeks secure file transfers on a non-regular basis. Additionally, for the smaller organizations, the cost may be prohibitive for little to sparing use. In those situations, a more simple secure file transfer options may be more advantageous.

Incentivized

• Sync functions allow to access work virtually anywhere
• Collaboration options make working with others easier, increasing productivity
• It works seamlessly in different devices
• The one drive online functions allows to use office programs like work and excel without having them installed in a device

Incentivized

• Live open items list for both the engagement team and the client
• Secure file transfer with ease and customization for alerts
• Optimal encryption for data security and safety

Incentivized

• I wish OneDrive would allow you to sync multiple personal/individual accounts to your computer. At this time, you can only sync one account at a time. That means that my personal OneDrive and individual corporate OneDrive can't be synced to my computer at the same time.
• OneDrive has a file size limitation of 15 GB. I know that that is a very large amount, but I have several files that are larger than 15 GB that I wish I could get to sync. I'm hoping that file size limitation changes in the future.

Incentivized

• There seems to be a number of situation in which the site is down or experiencing difficulties. This makes it difficult to work with clients and obtain documentation.
• When uploading a large volume of workpapers, there are occasions in which some or all of the files will not upload properly. This creates additional back and forth and frustration with the client for re-requests or follow-ups.
• The email notification alerts could be stronger in how they are displayed and how the changes/updates are utilized.

Incentivized

I like Box better. If you sign into Microsoft using a personal account, be EXTREMELY careful. All of your downloads could suddenly be available to your entire company, and that is incredibly embarrassing. Did that happen to me? Not going to say, but just always check which MS account you sign into.

Incentivized

Using OneDrive is very intuitive and has been improved over the years. It's just like using native file management on either your Mac or PC. It's drag and drop functionality is easy and it clearly shows when files are uploaded to the cloud or if there are errors

Incentivized

It has a good performance, the pages load normally, access to the files, management, reports, everything is working well. With regard to integration with other systems, we have not done so yet.

It's a Microsoft product so there is a wealth of information online both from Microsoft directly and from millions of users but as a corporate user we also have access to direct Microsoft support through a variety of avenues (phone, email, etc.). This makes finding answers to issues more accessible, however, it does also mean that any new feature requests will get buried.

Incentivized

Box is another file-sharing application that is very similar to OneDrive. Box falls short of OneDrive in its syncing capabilities. OneDrive is very quick with syncing so you never have to be concerned that you are not using the most up-to-date materials. Box was always a bit delayed and did not always accurately sync across systems. OneDrive benefits from being backed by Microsoft, so you expect the connection across applications that it allows. OneDrive also provides consistency for use and intuitive understanding because of that Microsoft consistency. I'd prefer OneDrive over Box.

Incentivized

• OneDrive allows us to save much time on creating and archiving backup copies of our data. Microsoft gives a guarantee on the possibility of recovery of files or folders even from 30 days ago. It provides a great comfort of work.

Incentivized

• Positive - Significantly reduced time searching for files that correspond to audit requests
• Positive - Reduced time creating list(s) of open items or documents that remain needed from the client, as the portal serves as a "live" request list
• Positive - Integration with EXCEL for PBC lists of items needed, which removes the need for a special format list to import correctly

Incentivized