The “Big Four” small business accounting pages have just been reviewed by PC Magazine and the results are interesting. None of the four (Peachtree, QuickBooks, MYOB and Microsoft Small Business) receives under a 4 star rating.
Low cost accounting software has gained a lot of ground in the past years. Once frowned upon by everyone as “not true accounting”, the software first earned the respect of users who often purchase these packages in their local office supply store (or increasingly by downloading a free trial). Once the software has been in use for several months the CPA invariably is looked upon to “bless” the selection.
PC MAGAZINE has this to say about the packages they reviewed:
Microsoft Office Accounting Professional 2008: Good for companies with online sales who want a familiar MS Office look and feel to their accounting software.
MYOB Premier Accounting 2008: Nice interface, powerful inventory, not as full featured in the online sales area as some competitors.
Peachtree by Sage Complete 2009: Thorough roster of modules especially payroll and inventory. An interface overhaul makes it a contender to become a star.
QuickBooks Accounting Pro Edition 2009: Good management overviews, not the strongest in every area but overall the best combination of usability and accounting features.
Here’s a link to the full review which includes more information as well as screen shots of many of the different key elements of the products.
Link: PC Magazine Reviews Small Business Accounting Software
