Researching and identifying the right accounting software is the most important part of the entire process of implementing a new solution. The first thing you will want to do is a needs assessment to determine exactly what you want your accounting software to do for you.
After you are clear on your needs, make a list of all of the products you are aware of that might meet those needs. Include products that you are familiar with, products you have read about, products listed on the Internet, etc. If you can, talk to people in the same business as you and ask them what they use. Go through these programs and learn about what features each of the software packages offers.
A spreadsheet will be a useful tool to keep track of all the information you collect. Some of the columns you may wish to include on your spreadsheet are: cost, platform, customization capabilities, certified payroll, time and billing solution, and bar coding –whatever you determine is the most important to your company.
As you narrow down your selection to products that will be most helpful to you, there are some other features you will want to consider before making your purchase.
Accounting Software Scalability
Is the accounting software networkable? How easy or expensive is it to move from one user to multi-users? With some accounting software, adding new users is just a matter of buying the appropriate number of user licenses; with others, you have to purchase multiple copies of the program, which is much more expensive.
Accounting Software Learning Curve
All accounting software claims to be "user-friendly", but you'll still need to invest some time in learning how to use it. Take a close look at the accounting software before you buy it. Is the user interface intuitive and comfortable? Will you be able to sit down and learn it, or will you need a further investment in training?
Accounting Software Support
What sort of technical support is available with the software? Does the accounting software have features such as screen tips, a searchable help index, demos, and example accounts to get you started? Are there print and online manuals available? And how accessible is the company's support?
If you are a small to medium sized business, then an “out of the box” accounting software program will probably meet your needs. However, if your business requires any unique reports or you need certain reports to provide special features, you will want to be sure the software you select allows you to choose customizable reports.
You alone can make the determination of the best accounting software package to meet your current and future needs.
