Inviting your Team into Xero Practice Manager
A practical guide to inviting staff and configuring roles in Xero Practice Manager

Video Overview
Optimising Team Setup in Xero Practice Manager
Effective team configuration is a critical component of modern accounting systems, particularly when using platforms such as Xero Practice Manager. Establishing staff profiles within the system is not merely an administrative task; it forms the foundation for user access, workflow management, and financial tracking. By carefully setting up team members, organisations can ensure both operational efficiency and appropriate governance across their practice.
The process begins by navigating to the system settings and accessing the staff management section. From here, administrators can view existing team members and invite new staff by entering essential details such as name and email address. This step simultaneously creates user accounts and initiates system access through automated invitations. Such integration highlights the importance of accuracy during setup, as these details directly influence user onboarding.
A key consideration in this process is the distinction between base rates and billable rates. The base rate represents the internal cost of employing a staff member, which may include additional overheads such as benefits and indirect expenses. In contrast, the billable rate reflects the amount charged to clients for that individual’s time. Understanding and correctly configuring these rates is essential for maintaining profitability and ensuring transparent financial reporting.
Equally important is the assignment of user permissions. Xero Practice Manager provides flexible privilege settings that allow organisations to tailor access based on roles. Senior personnel, such as directors and practice managers, are typically granted full system access to oversee operations. Conversely, junior staff are often given limited permissions, starting with basic functionalities such as timesheet entry and job visibility. Permissions can then be expanded incrementally, enabling a structured and secure approach to system usage.
Another valuable feature is the ability to customise billing rates for specific tasks. This allows firms to reflect the varying complexity and value of different services, ensuring that pricing strategies align with the nature of the work performed. Such flexibility supports more accurate revenue generation and enhances client billing practices.
Overall, the thoughtful configuration of staff within Xero Practice Manager demonstrates the broader principles of Accounting Practice Management. By aligning user roles, permissions, and financial parameters, firms can create a system that supports both operational clarity and strategic decision-making.