For many growing businesses, managing customer relationships in one platform and accounting in another can quickly become overwhelming. Sales teams update customer details in Method, while accounting teams manually enter the same information into QuickBooks, leading to duplicate work, missed invoices, and costly errors. That’s where the need to connect Method with QuickBooks Desktop and Online goes beyond convenience. It becomes a business necessity.
Imagine having your customer data, invoices, payments, and estimates automatically synced between your CRM and accounting software without endless manual updates. Whether you’re using QuickBooks Online for cloud flexibility or QuickBooks Desktop for advanced accounting control, connecting it with Method can transform the way your business operates.
If you’re also trying to integrate Method with QuickBooks, you’re in the right spot. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to connect Method with both Desktop and Online versions of QuickBooks.
Introduction to Method and QuickBooks Online & Desktop
Method is a customer relationship management software designed specifically to integrate with QuickBooks. It helps businesses manage leads, customer information, estimates, invoices, follow-ups, and communication from a centralized platform. With customizable workflows and real-time data syncing, Method allows sales and customer service teams to stay organized while reducing manual data entry.
Widely regarded as one of the best CRM platforms that integrates with QuickBooks Desktop and Online, Method offers powerful features such as:
- Lead Management
- Invoicing Capabilities
- Robust Customization
- Work Order Management
- Time Tracking
- Multi-App Integrations
By connecting CRM and accounting operations in one streamlined system, Method helps businesses improve efficiency, enhance customer management, and simplify everyday workflows.
On the other hand, QuickBooks Online and QuickBooks Desktop are powerful accounting solutions used for bookkeeping, invoicing, payroll, expense tracking, reporting, and tax management. QuickBooks Online offers cloud-based accessibility, making it ideal for businesses that need remote access and automatic updates. QuickBooks Desktop, however, provides better control and industry-specific tools preferred by businesses requiring deeper financial control.
And when businesses integrate Method with QuickBooks, they create a seamless workflow between customer management and accounting processes. In short, this integration helps businesses save time, reduce errors, and create a more organized workflow across sales and accounting departments. Now that you have a clear understanding of its benefits, let’s move ahead and explore the step-by-step process to sync these two powerful business platforms.
Prerequisites for Method CRM Integration with QuickBooks Desktop & Online
Before you begin the process to sync Method with QuickBooks Online and Desktop, it’s important to ensure that your system and accounts meet all the necessary setup requirements. Having these prerequisites in place will help you avoid sync errors, installation issues, and configuration problems during the integration process.
5 Prerequisites to Connect Method with QuickBooks Desktop
To connect Method CRM with QuickBooks Desktop, you’ll need a few additional system-level requirements because the setup involves the Method Sync Engine. Ensure the following before installation:
- Your QuickBooks Desktop company file must be open on a Windows computer.
- A supported Windows operating system, such as Windows 10 or later.
- Make sure your QuickBooks Desktop is updated to the latest release.
- Administrative permissions in QuickBooks Desktop for the initial sync and authorization process.
Note: If multiple users have access for operational purposes, it’s recommended to change and assign a trusted primary admin and limit unnecessary access permissions. - Access to your Method account details during installation.
5 Prerequisites for Method Integration with QuickBooks Online
If you want to integrate Method with QuickBooks Online, make sure you have the following:
- An active QuickBooks Online account.
- An Intuit account to access and authorize QuickBooks services.
- Administrator access to your QuickBooks Online company file.
- Stable internet connectivity for uninterrupted cloud synchronization.
- Your Method account credentials for setup and authentication.
These requirements ensure that Method can securely access and sync your QuickBooks Online data in real time.
For businesses using Windows Server environments, separate installation steps may apply. Also, older operating systems like Windows XP are not supported for Method integration. Once these prerequisites are ready, you can move forward with configuring and syncing Method with QuickBooks Desktop and Online smoothly and securely.
How to Connect Method CRM with QuickBooks Desktop?
Instead of switching between multiple platforms all day, the integration creates a unified workflow. By syncing Method with QuickBooks Desktop, businesses can manage customer details, invoices, payments, and even estimates in real time. Let’s walk you through the complete process to connect and manage these two platforms via Method Integration Engine.
Step 1: Create or Sign Up with Method
The first step toward connecting Method with QuickBooks Desktop is creating your Method account. If you already have an account, simply log in and proceed with the setup process. However, if you’re new to the platform, you can begin the Method CRM integration with QuickBooks Desktop by signing up for a free trial to explore its features and integration capabilities.
Once you begin the setup, Method will guide you through a simple onboarding process. During this stage, you’ll be asked to choose the accounting software you currently use. Choose QuickBooks and proceed.
Since this setup is specifically for QuickBooks Desktop integration, make sure to select QuickBooks Desktop and Enterprise when prompted.
Once you click on Start Sync, Method will automatically provide a step-by-step setup guide to help you complete the synchronization process smoothly. However, if you happen to skip the guided walkthrough or simply prefer a more detailed explanation, don’t worry. We’ll cover each step of the sync process ahead.
Step 2: Launch QuickBooks Desktop with the Admin Access
The next step is to open your QuickBooks Desktop company file using Admin credentials. If multiple users currently have admin-level access, it’s recommended to temporarily limit those permissions until the Method CRM integration with QuickBooks Desktop is completed successfully. This helps avoid authorization conflicts or sync interruptions during the setup process.
Once you’ve verified or changed the primary admin access in QuickBooks Desktop, follow the steps mentioned below to continue with the integration.
- Open QuickBooks Desktop in Single-User Mode.
- Access the company file that you want to sync with Method.
- Ensure you are logged in with QuickBooks Admin credentials.
- Verify that the selected company file is active and accessible before starting the sync process.
- If another user or IT administrator will install the Method Sync Engine, click on the “Email Instructions” option to share the setup instructions with them.
Note: Ensure that you select the correct QuickBooks company file while operating in Single-User Mode. Syncing an incorrect company file may result in data mismatches, and the synchronization process cannot be easily reversed.
Step 3: Download and Install the Method Sync Engine
After setting up your Method account and preparing your QuickBooks Desktop company file, the next step is to download and install the Method Sync Engine. This tool acts as the bridge between Method and QuickBooks Desktop, enabling secure data synchronization between both platforms. Proper installation of the sync engine is essential to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted integration process.
Basic Requirements to Meet to Use Method Sync Engine
- The Method Integration Engine supports Windows operating systems only.
- Your system should meet QuickBooks Desktop minimum requirements.
- Ensure your system is running Windows 10 or higher.
- Enable .NET Framework 3.5 SP1 on Windows 10 and Windows Server 2012.
- Verify that .NET configuration settings are properly enabled before installation.
Here are the steps to download and install this tool to integrate one of the best CRM with QuickBooks Desktop.
- Click on the Download option to download the Method Sync Engine installer file.
- Locate the downloaded file named MethodSyncInstaller.exe on your system.
- Double-click the installer file to launch the installation process.
- Follow the on-screen instructions carefully to complete the installation.
- Once installed, the sync engine will attempt to connect automatically with your Method account.
Note: In most cases, the Method Sync Engine connects automatically after installation. However, if the connection is not established, you may be required to enter an authentication code manually. In such cases, click on “Generate an Authentication Code” and follow the provided instructions to complete the authorization process securely.
Step 4: Start the Method Sync with QuickBooks Desktop
Once the Method Sync Engine has been successfully installed on the system hosting QuickBooks Desktop; the final step is to configure synchronization permissions and initiate the sync process. Follow the steps below to complete the sync setup:
- After connecting the Method Sync Engine, return to your web browser and wait for Method to establish the connection automatically.
- Once the installation is completed, a QuickBooks Application Certificate window will appear on your screen.
- Make sure you select the option: “Yes, whenever this QuickBooks company file is open.”
- Click Continue, and then select Done to begin the synchronization process.
- Note: If you accidentally select incorrect permissions in the QuickBooks Application Certificate window, you can modify them later through the Integrated Applications Settings section within QuickBooks Desktop.
- To monitor the sync status, locate the Method logo in the Windows taskbar.
- Right-click on the Method icon and select Display to view the synchronization progress.
- Depending on the size of your QuickBooks company file, the initial sync may take some time to complete.
- Once the sync is successful, the Method PUSH status will be displayed as Connected and turn green.
- After synchronization is completed, your browser will automatically redirect you to the Method dashboard.
Note: During the setup, you may receive a second QuickBooks Application Certificate prompt for the Method Integration Engine Listener. Grant the same permissions as previously selected to continue the integration successfully.
Steps to Uninstall the Method Sync Engine from QuickBooks Desktop
There may be situations where you need to uninstall the Method Sync Engine, such as reinstalling the integration, troubleshooting sync issues, or permanently disconnecting Method from QuickBooks Desktop. To ensure a clean removal process, it’s important to properly disconnect the sync engine, remove QuickBooks permissions, and uninstall all related components from your system.
Follow the steps below to safely uninstall the Method Sync Engine from QuickBooks Desktop.
Step 1: Shut Down the Method Sync Engine
Before uninstalling the integration, you must first stop all active synchronization processes.
- Open QuickBooks Desktop.
- Locate the Method icon in the Windows taskbar.
- Right-click the icon and select Display to open the Method Integration Sync Engine.
- If the Method Integration Engine is not running, click on Start, select Programs, select Method, and then launch Method Integration Engine for Use with QuickBooks.
- Inside the Method Integration Engine window, click Disconnect.
- Navigate to Synchronize, select Real Time QuickBooks Subscription, and then click Remove Subscription.
- Click on File and select Shut Down to completely close the Method Integration Engine.
Step 2: Remove Method Permissions from QuickBooks Desktop
After shutting down the sync engine, the next step is to remove Method-related permissions from QuickBooks Desktop.
- Open QuickBooks Desktop and navigate to Edit, then select Preferences.
- Next, open Integrated Applications and choose Company Preferences.
- Locate Method Integration Engine Listener and click on Remove
- Then select Yes to confirm.
- Next, select Method QuickBooks Desktop Integration Engine for Use with QuickBooks.
- Click Remove, select Yes, and then click OK.
- Close QuickBooks Desktop by clicking File and selecting Exit.
Once you close QuickBooks Desktop, reopen the application to verify whether the Method connection request still appears. If QuickBooks displays a prompt asking you to enable or reconnect Method again, simply click Cancel and proceed with Step 3.1: Uninstall Method Integration Engine via Tool.
However, if QuickBooks opens normally without displaying any Method connection prompts, you can move directly to Step 3.2: Manually Uninstall Method Integration Engine. This indicates that the QuickBooks permissions were removed successfully, allowing you to complete the cleanup process manually from your Windows system.
Step 3.1: Uninstall Method Integration Engine via Tool
Use this method if QuickBooks continues showing Method connection prompts after removing permissions.
- Open QuickBooks Desktop with the company file connected to Method.
- Download and run the EventUnsubscriber.exe utility.
- Close QuickBooks Desktop completely.
- Reopen QuickBooks Desktop and verify that the Method connection prompts no longer appear.
Step 3.2: Manually Uninstall the Method Integration Engine
If no QuickBooks prompts appear after removing permissions, you can proceed with the manual uninstall method.
- Ensure QuickBooks Desktop is completely closed.
- Open My Computer and navigate to the following directory: C:\Documents and Settings\AllUsers\Application Data\Intuit\QuickBooks
- Note: If you are unable to locate the directory, use the Windows search or Find tool to search for the file named “qbsubconfig.xml” directly on your system.
- Locate and delete the file named: qbsubconfig.xml.
- Reopen QuickBooks Desktop once to verify the removal.
- In Windows, navigate to Start, then open Control Panel, and select Add or Remove Programs.
- Finally, uninstall the following applications:
- Method Integration Engine
- Method Integration Listener
Once these steps are completed, the Method Sync Engine and all associated QuickBooks integration components will be successfully removed from your system. If you plan to reconnect Method with QuickBooks Desktop, you can proceed with a fresh installation and sync configuration to ensure a clean and error-free setup.
In case you face any issues while connecting Method with QuickBooks Desktop, we recommend contacting a certified expert for QuickBooks Integration Service.
Now that you have a clear understanding of how to connect and disconnect Method CRM with QuickBooks Desktop, it’s time to explore the integration process for QuickBooks Online as well.
How to Connect Method CRM with QuickBooks Online?
As businesses continue shifting toward cloud-based operations, integrating Method with QBO has become more important than ever. That’s where Method and QuickBooks Online create a powerful combination. Known as one of the best CRM for QuickBooks Online, Method helps businesses streamline customer interactions, automate workflows, and sync accounting data in real time without the hassle of manual entry.
Here are the steps to add the Method app in QuickBooks Online:
- Sign in to your QuickBooks Online account using your login credentials.
- From the top navigation menu, click on the My Integrations icon.
- On the Find Integrations page, search for Method and select it from the results.
- Once the Method integration page opens, click on Get Integration Now.
- You will then be prompted to authorize Intuit to share your QuickBooks Online data with Method. Click Connect to continue.
- Create your Method account by entering your first name, last name, company name, and email address.
- After completing the required details, click on Start Free Trial to finalize the setup process.
- Once completed, your Method and QuickBooks Online integration will be successfully connected.
Once the setup is completed, Method and QuickBooks Online will begin working together seamlessly, allowing you to manage customer relationships and accounting operations from one connected system.
Conclusion
Connecting Method with QuickBooks Desktop and Online can significantly improve the way businesses manage customer relationships and accounting operations. Instead of handling repetitive manual entries and switching between multiple platforms, this integration creates a centralized workflow where customer data, invoices, payments, estimates, and sales activities stay automatically synchronized in real time.
By successfully integrating these powerful business solutions, companies can save valuable time, reduce operational errors, and create a more efficient workflow for their teams. And if you encounter any technical difficulties during setup or synchronization, it’s always best to connect with certified QuickBooks experts for immediate assistance and hassle-free support.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is generally not recommended to purge your QuickBooks Online data if your account is actively synced with Method. Purging data can remove important financial and customer records that are connected between both platforms, which may lead to synchronization issues, missing records, or integration conflicts. If you need to reset, clean up, or modify your QuickBooks Online company data, it’s best to contact our QuickBooks Integration experts.
Yes, certain custom fields in QuickBooks Online can sync with Method, but there are some limitations. QuickBooks Online allows users to create custom fields for Customers, Sales Forms, and Purchase Orders. However, not all of these fields are currently accessible for synchronization with Method.
At present, Method supports syncing only the following custom fields:
– The first three custom fields from Sales Forms.
– The first three custom fields from Purchase Orders.
The custom fields from Sales Forms are synced with the following Method tables:
– Estimates
– Invoices
– Sales Receipts
However, it’s important to note that Customer custom fields in QuickBooks Online do not sync with Method at this time.
No, Method does not offer a separate free trial through the QuickBooks Accountant Apps Program. In fact, selecting the trial option may prevent the QuickBooks Online Accountant from receiving complimentary accountant-level access to the client’s Method account. It also will not count toward any available free Method account allocation for accountants.
To get started, the accountant must first create the Method account directly through the QuickBooks Online Accountant Apps Program. During the account setup process, the accountant will be required to specify the number of Method users needed for the account. These user settings can also be updated or modified later based on business requirements.