Labor Codes vs. Service Items

Every time entry record in BigTime is linked to a labor code (or "work code"). These codes are roughly equivalent to QuickBooks "service items." So, you can link billing codes to specific QuickBooks service items using the Tools... System Settings... Labor Codes page in BigTime.

You could also delete all of your BigTime billing codes and just replace them with your QuickBooks item list on that same page. While most customers like to keep these two lists at arm's length, this overwrite is certainly an option.

Replacing Labor Codes with QuickBooks Service Items

1. Goto the Tools...System Settings...List/Lookups...Billing codes screen from your main BigTime menu.
2. Click the "replace these with my QuickBooks service items" link in the information box on that page. Note that any item that already has time attached to it will NOT be deleted from BigTime during this update.

How are Labor Codes and Service Items Different?

Keeping your BigTime codes and your QuickBooks service items at arm's length gives you more flexibility when you setup your QuickBooks item lists. Keep in mind that your item list is also the only way you can divvy up your revenue when you create invoices. So, if your accounting requirements dictate a complex "structure" for your QuickBooks item list, you can hide much of that complexity from your staff by linking it with BigTime "behind the scenes."

You can also use budget items (instead of billing codes) to link work in BigTime to a specific service item. This enables you to create a "project specific" list of items within BigTime.