Even the smallest business can have huge benefits by using accounting software. Luckily, there are a variety of all-in-one small business software packages to make a range of accounting issues a worry of the past. Whether you are a CPA, accounting student or a small business owner it would be wise for your career to familiarize yourself with these different accounting software packages. Obviously, all of the below mentioned software programs have their limitations especially when it comes to scalability for a large corporation.
These small business accounting software programs vary widely in both price and performance. This makes it even more important to carefully choose which software will be the best fit by reading a variety of reviews.
Best Small Business Accounting Software
Cougar Mountain CMS Pro 2011
The Cougar Mountain CMS Pro reaches to the top of the price range with a typical price in the $1,600 range. On top of this hefty price tag, additional modules are available for purchase as well as basic and phone support that is charged per hour. These costs quickly add up making this perhaps not the best small business accounting software on the market although it does follow Generally Accepted Accounting Practices (GAAP) which can help when working with a CPA. This small business accounting software receives top marks from reviewers in some situations including payroll, inventory, accounts payable and job costing. However, this software receives poor evaluations in ease of use. There are better options for small businesses looking for software.
Bookkeeper Software
This software package is at the opposite end of the price scale at approximately $40. This small business accounting software has fantastic value for the dollar with great functionality for small businesses. The Bookkeeper Software receives great reviews on both its ease of use and help and support available. This makes this the perfect package for small businesses that don’t have complex accounting needs or extensive accounting knowledge. Some areas that reviewers found to be lacking include comprehensive fixed asset tracking, lack of ability for remote access and direct billing and moving data from one version of the software to another. It is still a great Bookkeeping software.
Simply Accounting Pro 2011
This version of small business accounting software is mid-priced at around $200. Although this product is made by a Canadian company, it does have an American version available with all the applicable tax changes required. In addition, Simply Accounting Pro is one of the few accounting programs that can easily switch from English to Spanish. It receives great reviews in terms of ease of use, banking, accounts payable and help and support. However, other aspects of this program scored low grades including reporting and general ledger capabilities. This program does not provide any time billing function or provide tracking of fixed assets whatsoever.
Sage Peachtree Complete Accounting 2012
This Sage Peachtree Complete Accounting 2012 is also priced at around $200. Although, I have seen it sold on Amazon for around $140 brand new. This mid-priced package receives top marks from reviewers in nearly every category and is consistently highest ranked as the best simple accounting software package on the market. There are some issues with converting data from a few software packages into this version of Sage’s software and ease of use but reviewers rated even these areas extremely high. Sage Peachtree 2012 comes with the options to purchase additional support packages and even online training courses from Sage University. This Peachtree software is an all-in-one comprehensive small business accounting software that can help to save businesses both time and money.
QuickBooks by Intuit
We couldn’t have a post without mentioning an accounting software that has dominated the market for a long time to come. While for some business owners there is a steep learning curve (if you want to fully utilize the system), the latest version of Quickbooks Pro is as detailed as you want to take it. Most people still say that it is the best accounting software on the market.
There is a huge variety of small business accounting software programs on the market. The variety makes it easy to find which software package would work best for your particular business needs.
Jonathan is an Executive Recruiter/Career Coach that has successfully placed hundreds of Accounting & Finance Professionals. If you are currently struggling in your career, he is available on a limited basis for personal 1-on-1 career coaching and for resume makeovers.
