Controller vs. Comptroller – Key Differences
In the accounting world, controller vs. comptroller has a contentious history. The two words have a similar definition which begs the question: is there really a need for both? As with all intellectual discussions, it’s best to examine historical facts first.
Keep reading as we dive into the great accounting debate of controller vs. comptroller to learn if there’s a key difference and why it matters.
History 101: Controller Vs. Comptroller
In the beginning, there was only one word. Controller is derived from the Latin words “contra rotund” which roughly translates as either “against the round” or “against the sum”. This word was the sole terminology in use, that is, until the 1800s.
Sometime in the 1800s, the word “controller” was misspelled as “comptroller” and the infamous divergence occurred. There was even an editorial in The New York Times in 1896 about it. The article states:
“that the official title Controller, in all laws, public records, and documents, be spelled Controller, that being historically and etymologically the true and right spelling; and that the false and offensive form ‘Comptroller,’ born of ignorance and continued in darkness, be discarded.”
What Exactly Is A Comptroller?
Simply put, a comptroller is the chief financial officer in the government sector. There is also a school of thought that the term is more frequently used in European countries. Regardless, the word comptroller is now part of the accounting vernacular.
These two elements are the key differences between a controller and a comptroller. While the two roles remain the same, the methods and processes with which they work continue to evolve.
The Modern Controller
While there may not be a difference between controller versus comptroller, times change and industries evolve. A controller in modern times have different workflows and tasks that they handle than their counterparts in the 1800s.
The controller is an essential part of the accounting department that stays focused on the bottom line and tracks the company’s costs, payments, and sales transactions.
As a business owner, you know that managing your books is vital and that finding the time to stay on top of it can be a challenge. This is where accounting software can really help you take control of your books and modernize your business.
Technology has allowed innovative software to assist companies with their accounting needs in a secure ecosystem. Accounting software can reduce errors and deliver a complete record of finances while saving you time, money, and headaches.
Talk to your accountant about accounting software and how it can simplify your processes and make bookkeeping more efficient. You can also read more about error-free accounting in our previous blog: 3 Ways Technology Can Reduce Errors In Accounting.
Take Control Of Your Books With A Click
Ditch the paper with virtual controller services that can be deployed from anywhere, at any time. With accurate, consistent reporting, you can become a more effective controller. See where improvements can be made and start planning for the future.
In-house vs Virtual Controller or Comptroller
One of the major advancements in all areas of accounting, but in this case a controller, is the integration of technology into these professionals’ workflow.
In-house controllers are often:
- Salary employees
- Working full-time
When you work with a virtual controller (like what we over), you benefit from the same high-level expertise but don’t need to commit to a salaried employee.
In fact, since we don’t work for you full-time and aren’t in-house, you don’t need to spend money on additional office space, equipment nor benefits.
Our clients benefit from the experience of a seasoned controller at a lower cost than hiring one in-house.
And, you can use our services when you need them without a long-term commitment. We’re able to assist you from anywhere in the world, offering prudent advice and services, which is something that would never have happened back when a misspelling led to “comptroller” being added into the vernacular.
Step Into The Future With Redmond Accounting
Redmond Accounting has specialized in online accounting for over 10 years and partners with businesses all over the country to help them get their books organized and up-to-date. Our accounting services include bookkeeping, CFO, controller, and payroll, and all are done with a modern twist.
If you want to continue the discussion about controller vs. comptroller, or if you’d like to learn more about our services, going paperless, and how cloud-based accounting is good for business — give us a call.
You can also schedule a consultation now!
