BASE.it
Prototype Accounting Software
A software intended to simplify the work of modern accountants. Easily access information and guidelines from the GAAP. Link your business with BASE.it to manage client information. View, annotate, and discuss case studies that are uploaded to the global database. Find it. Fix it. Store it. Base it.
Project Deliverables
These are the creations of our team throughout this project period.
The Process
01
Research
Intuit approached us and explained how Gen-Z is hesitant to enter the accounting profession. They asked us to understand why this is and to find a solution to their problems. Our team conducted a survey with over 90 students currently studying accounting to find out what their biggest struggles are for entering the industry. Additionally, we conducted interviews with a select few participants from the survey to gain candid insight on their fears and desires for the industry.
02
*Survey conducted by Intuit's QuickBooks*
The Problem
From our research we concluded that young accountants want ways to simplify the tedious work of accounting and have the ability to learn and communicate with other accountants in the field. The usage of technology and AI is something that the rising generation is highly interested in. To summarize our research we created this problem statement: "The information for regulation is scattered, the client’s data is crowded and difficult to filter through, and interaction with other accountants is limited making it difficult to grow in the field. Accountants want more technology use to make work easier so they can enjoy other aspects of life outside of work."
03
Ideation
Our team brainstormed many ideas on how to solve this problem. One suggestion was a database where users could easily find and access GAAP guidelines and case studies published by other firms so that accountants have both definitions and examples of the work they will be doing. Another proposal was the creation of a forum where accountants can discuss and network with others in their field. We ultimately decided on a combination of the two which led to the creation of BASE.it.
*Potential User Flow for our software*
04
Prototyping
Our team quickly went to work to create some low-resolution images of some potential ideas for branding and the user interface. We pulled inspiration from other Intuit-owned software for our branding and tried to make it our own. For the UI we looked at examples from other storage and finance software such as Box and
05
Finishing Touches
When polishing our product, we wanted to ensure that our designs emphasized efficiency and organization with a sleek and modern finish. The colors are in line with Intuit's branding guidelines and our typeface is legible and clean. The UI is easy to navigate through and has clear indicators of what each feature does.
06
Pitching our Software
Our team had the privilege to present our software prototype to design representatives from Intuit. BASE.it was received well with the representatives stating that many accountants currently employed with them could benefit from a software like ours. In the future, we hope to update our software to improve on UI aspects and add program functionality so that business can integrate it into their accounting software suite.