The world of small business accounting software can be a minefield for any business owner. However, choosing the right package is one of the most critical business decisions you’ll ever make.
Here are the seven things to consider before you make a purchase that will help you achieve your business goals.
1. Scalability
Businesses change over time, so it’s critical that the small business accounting software you choose can change too. Some
the things that often change are the number of products and services offered and the number of employees. When choosing your package, try to imagine the business in 5 or 10 years and how different it will be. Use this information to guide your purchase decision. It may be better to pay a little more now for the software knowing that it can easily be
updated when needed with minimal disruption and cost to your business.
2. Support
It’s important for any software to have great support for when something goes wrong (and it always does). Most major companies
offer support, but you should also think about support in your local area. It is often much easier to have someone locally
go in and do the things you need to do with your software than having someone try to help you over the phone. do something
ask other businesses about the package they use and who helps them.
3. Counter interface
It is highly unlikely that you will handle all aspects of accounting for your company. Your accountant is an important factor in making the right decision. What software are they used to working with and which do they prefer? You can easily provide them with data and reports on your package without the need for any additional work (which you will have to pay for). Don’t be afraid to ask their opinion, as they live and breathe these things.
4. Best value for money
Once you’ve selected the right package for your business, you too can get the best value. Shop around as the price can
they vary a lot and the product is exactly the same. Online merchants like Amazon are able to offer better prices due to the sheer volume of products they sell. However, price is only part of the equation, so if there is a great local dealer with support or installation assistance, this can be much more valuable.
5. Main brands
There are two main players in the small business accounting software market. They are QuickBooks and Peachtree. Microsoft is expected to enter the market soon. I recommend choosing a major brand so you can get regular updates and know that the company will be there for as long as your business needs them.
6. Ease of use
Ease of use is a personal thing, but it’s worth trying the software before you buy it, if possible. Remember to ask the person who will be the primary user to test the software as well. Also consider how well the package can interface with other software you use. This is an advantage that the Microsoft package can have when it becomes available.
7. Necessary features
I mentioned this earlier when I talked about thinking ahead in terms of where your business will be in 5 or 10 years. The majority
Accounting software packages come in several different versions. If you don’t need certain features now and don’t see a need for them in the future, then don’t buy them. The main differences are usually: number of users allowed, inventory management capacity and number of reports available.
To summarize, think ahead when planning to purchase small business accounting software. You will make a much smarter life.
business decision that will save you a lot of trouble and money in the future.