This is a challenge for all sized businesses. It is such a big decision with on-going consequences if you get it wrong. I have worked with many businesses over the years, almost starting all over again because they find the package is just not right for them.
What do you need it for initially?
Write down the reasons for having an Accounting package. It could be that you are you simply tracking your income and expenses, do you need full inventory control, budgeting, payroll, customer relationship management, taxation return preparations? Determining why you need it will help guide you to the type of package will be the most suitable for your business.
What will you need it for in the future?
This is where you need to start thinking ahead. Will you need multi-user, perhaps you want to add inventory and payroll later. I suppose the big question to ask yourself is where do you see your business in 3 years and 5 years. Having to start again, retrain and re-enter all your data is expensive and time consuming.
How much support will you need?
If you are well versed in accounting procedures and IT savvy, you may need little assistance. If not you may need on the job training and ongoing support (a person at the end of the line to answer your questions). Most software providers offer support contracts and pay as you use assistance. Make sure that this is readily available in whatever format you need, be it over the phone, internet or site visits.
Only pay for what you need.
Just like buying airline ticket, some software packages come with many features that you are will pay for but will never use. Consider a package that you can add a module when you feel the need for it, this keeps the costs down but minimises the risk of having to purchase and adapt to completely new software in the future.
Seek advice
Ask others in similar businesses to yours. Find out what package they use and why, are they happy with it, support issues, has it grown with their business etc. People are often the best providers of information. Search the internet, including business forums for a broad range of information. Ask your Accountant as they work with many businesses with differing needs.
There are many packages available, if you need any assistance please feel free to contact me personally. I am happy to help.
Kind Regards
Andrew Valentine
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