IRIS OpenSpace debuts Dropbox-like service for accountants
New product promises to bring benefits of secure cloud to data sensitive industry


Accountancy software provider IRIS Software Group has launched a cloud-based file sharing system designed for use by accountancy firms.
The vendor's IRIS OpenSpace system will allow accountants to work more collaboratively with their clients, the company said, and is being made available free of charge.
The product is also being touted as secure alternative to email, which is often the way accountants share files with their clients. The system also complies with the necessary UK data protection legislation, and is hosted on Microsoft Windows Azure servers located within the boundaries of the EU.
IRIS OpenSpace offers functionality for accountants that is not available through consumer cloud platforms, such as Dropbox, the vendor claims.
The system automatically alerts clients when new items, such as draft tax returns or financial statements, are ready for their review or input. Clients can also use the portal to securely upload documents required by their accountant, such as bank statements, payroll slips, receipt scans and trial balances.
For existing IRIS customers, the new platform will integrate with the firm's Accountancy Suite and PTP Accounts software.
Phill Robinson, CEO of IRIS Accountancy Solutions, said: “We believe this type of cloud-based product can transform the relationship between accountant and client.
Get the ITPro daily newsletter
Sign up today and you will receive a free copy of our Future Focus 2025 report - the leading guidance on AI, cybersecurity and other IT challenges as per 700+ senior executives
"IRIS OpenSpace takes the best of consumer cloud applications and industrialises them for the accountancy sector. Security, integration with our own products and ease-of-use have been our priorities while building the service and we believe that it meets a previously unfulfilled need," Robinson added.

Jane McCallion is Managing Editor of ITPro and ChannelPro, specializing in data centers, enterprise IT infrastructure, and cybersecurity. Before becoming Managing Editor, she held the role of Deputy Editor and, prior to that, Features Editor, managing a pool of freelance and internal writers, while continuing to specialize in enterprise IT infrastructure, and business strategy.
Prior to joining ITPro, Jane was a freelance business journalist writing as both Jane McCallion and Jane Bordenave for titles such as European CEO, World Finance, and Business Excellence Magazine.
-
The Race Is On for Higher Ed to Adapt: Equity in Hyflex Learning
By ITPro
-
Google faces 'first of its kind' class action for search ads overcharging in UK
News Google faces a "first of its kind" £5 billion lawsuit in the UK over accusations it has a monopoly in digital advertising that allows it to overcharge customers.
By Nicole Kobie
-
FreeAgent review: Fully featured yet easy-to-use cloud accounting platform
Reviews A keenly-priced timesaver that will shine if your business lacks an accounts department
By Nik Rawlinson
-
Why it might be time to switch your organization’s accounting software
In-depth Every business needs to keep track of its finance, but there are challenges involved in maintaining and switching accounting software
By Steve Cassidy
-
Intuit to pay $141 million settlement over misleading TurboTax ads
News The company's elusive ad campaign discouraged eligible taxpayers from signing up for IRS Free File Program
By Praharsha Anand
-
Google settles tax payment in Ireland
News Company makes settlement for back tax and interest payments
By Danny Bradbury
-
UK fintech investment reaches record levels
News Out of the 112 tech unicorns in the UK, 40 are part of the fintech sector
By Sabina Weston
-
Oracle employee claims company wasn't accounting properly
News The whistleblower has now been sacked after saying it falsified cloud figures and faces legal action
By Clare Hopping
-
Sage One Accounts Extra review
Reviews One of the best small business accounting services around, despite limited VAT MOSS support
By K.G. Orphanides
-
Xero Premium review
Reviews Powerful small business accounting in the cloud
By K.G. Orphanides