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Small Business Bookkeeping Software

Picking the small business bookkeeping software you will use for your business can be a big decision. Once you select a software program it can be very difficult and costly to switch systems later if you are unhappy with your selection. That is why it is a good idea to thoroughly review all of your options before making the decision for your small business. To get a free small business accounting program go to the bottom of this post. 
Some of the key factors that should be reviewed when selecting a small business bookkeeping software program for your small business are....

 

Small Business Bookkeeping Software Decision Factors

  1. Cost

  2. Learning curve

  3. Input efficiency

  4. Reporting capabilities

  5. Flexibility

     

In more detail here is what you should be looking for in each of the above key factors

 

  1. Cost

    Compare the costs all the various programs you are considering. Ensure to take into account if the program cost is a one time payment or an on going monthly fee. On-going monthly fee programs can sometimes look attractive but actually be very expensive if you need to pay the monthly fee for as long as you use the software. Calculate how much you will pay in monthly fees over the life of your business to understand the true cost. Cost is not the only factor though, weigh the other features of the programs against their cost as it might make sense to pay a little more for a program that has more features, is easier to use or is just more flexible.

     

  2. Learning curve

    Take into account how long it is going to take you to learn the system. If a particular program will take days or weeks to learn there is significant cost to your business by selecting a software package of that nature. There is a lot of value in having a system that can be learned quickly by yourself, others or future employees.

     

  3. Input efficiency

    Take into account how long it will take to make journal entries and run reports. If with one bookkeeping system you will be able to enter twice as many entries per hour versus another program, definitely choose the program that is quicker to work with. The less time you spend entering your accounting transactions the more time you have to run your business and make more money.

     

  4. Reporting capabilities

    One of the key differentiators between small business bookkeeping software programs is the reporting features available within a given software package. Reporting on your financial results is critical to managing your business that is why you need to make sure the program you purchase can easily deliver the reports you need. Many bookkeeping programs have set reports that can not be modified. If you are considering a software system of this nature it is critical you ensure the standard reports can be customized to include the information you want and need.

     

  5. Flexibility

    Finally, the fifth factor to consider when selecting a software program is the flexibility of the program. Flexibility includes the ease at which the necessary information can be extracted from the system. It also includes how easy it is to make correcting entries or the ability to transfer the program from one computer to another. The last thing you want to have happen is have all of your bookkeeping information locked into some program but not be able to access or modify it in the way you want. And finally, flexibility includes how easily the data can be transferred to another program of software system.

     

Other Helpful Things To Know

  • Do some self-reflection and goal setting for your business, then once you have your goals, make sure the accounting system is set up well to track those goals and easily report on your progress towards your goals. 
  • Some bookkeeping software may require setting up direct deposits or linking to a business bank account, which often involves providing a voided check. If you're unsure about what a voided check is or how to obtain one, you can learn more here.
  • Actually try using the options you are considering before purchasing, reading about their features and watching videos about them is not enough. You should actually try using them to see how easy or hard they are to use
  • Often you can test using them by signing up for a free trial or booking a demo and asking in the demo for a free trial or to access a test site with the book keeping software
  • There are lots of great sites that compare book keeping software that can be a good resource to create a list of options you want to consider/investigate more by testing using them
  • Don't rush your decision, once it is made, it is hard to switch
  • Consider seeking advice or even paying a consultant to help you analyze your options
  • Before committing to a program, talk to someone who uses it

 

When making your final decision on the small business bookkeeping software you will choose you should weigh how each option you are reviewing compares on all 5 of these factors. At the same time is is important to determine which of the 5 factors is most important to your particular business and situation. Only you know what your bookkeeping program needs to be able to do. If you follow this process you will make a smart informed decision that will result in the selection of a system that is right for your business.


http://www.profitworks.ca/easy-to-use-accounting-software

 

If you are in the market for a small business bookkeeping software program check out Profitworks' Easy To Use Accounting Software by clicking on the link above.