Typically, start-up operations and companies with fewer than five employees
can begin with an "off-the-shelf" program such as QuickBooks® or QuickBooks® Pro.
Available at office supply and computer software retailers, as well as online,
these programs are relatively easy to install and implement when the user has a
basic knowledge of bookkeeping. As QuickBooks® Certified Professional Advisors,
our staff can help you set up a chart of accounts and customize other applications
and provide on-going training and support to you and your staff.
Growing companies and those with special reporting and analysis requirements should
consider an upper entry-level package such as Best® Software's BusinessWorks Gold or
Peachtree® Complete Accounting. With more customization options as well as financial
analysis tools, this level of software allows several concurrent users to access the
system. Specialized packages offer such features
as inventory tracking and basic job costing and are sold in modules such as
general ledger, payroll and accounts receivable. More extensive bookkeeping
experience as well as special training and implementation will be needed to
support these applications.
For companies with revenue from $2 million to $50 million, the mid-range software
market offers a full range of cost accounting, analysis and reporting applications,
plus client/server platforms. Among the most popular are Great Plains by Microsoft®
Business Solutions and MAS 90® and MAS 200® by Best® Software. Extensive accounting
experience and technical support will be needed to effectively manage
these systems.
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Typically, the beginning of your company’s fiscal year is the best time to integrate
a new accounting package, but you may also consider implementation during your
company’s slower sales or production months. Smart timing will result in minimal
migration of data, minimal overlap of your current and new systems, and the most
reasonable fees for retaining accountants and consultants to assist you with
the process.
Look to the future. As you plan this software purchase, plan for future transitions
as well. How many users will need to access the system today? And how many additional
users do you expect in the coming years? Do you plan to launch new products or
services that may require specialized tracking? Can your new software be easily
enhanced and upgraded to meet the future needs of your business?
No matter how user-friendly the software may be, on-going support is critical for
the most effective use of your system. Our firm has teamed with MIS Solutions, Inc.,
a local information technology consulting firm, to provide our clients with a full
range of training, maintenance and support services.
Along with our designation as QuickBooks® Certified Professional Advisors, we are
authorized resellers of Best® Software's MAS 90® and MAS 200®. We will be happy to
assist you with the selection and implementation process of one of these products,
or other software that best suits your needs. Please call our office for more
information or to arrange a consultation.
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Duluth, GA 30097 
