Small business software: keep on top

You've moved into the new office. The business cards are printed, the phone is ringing and your employees are working diligently to fill the first orders. Then there are the new computers, waiting for the right software. But where do you start? What business computer software is available and how much does it cost?

Start at the beginning

When it comes to small business software, almost every office will need a way to create and edit documents.

"Something like Microsoft Office is the logical starting point," says Andrew Whiting, software specialist at Officeworks. 

You will need to buy a multi-licence version to run it on more than one machine.

"Essentially it's a suite of different programs that equips you with the basics, starting at word processing and spreadsheets and moving into a wider range of software tools," he says. 

Those include:

• PowerPoint: a useful tool for preparing presentations and product guides
• Publisher: desktop-publishing program good for brochures and business cards
• Outlook: powerful email program with time and information management tools
• SharePoint: server software that enables communication and transmission of data between staff.

Accounting software

When that first dollar comes in or goes out, how will you track it? How will you record your expenses, track wages or devise budgets? Simple: Get a small business software accounting package that integrates all your financials.

"MYOB is the major player in accounting software," says Andrew. "They offer a few packages, starting with MYOB Accounting and AccountingPlus."

If you're not sure which is the right product for you, ask your accountant for advice.

Anti-virus software 

An unfortunate part of using business computer software is the havoc that can be wreaked by viruses, causing loss of data, underperformance of PCs, system downtime or even information theft.

Virus protection should be a key part of your small business software. Products worth considering include:

• Kaspersky Antivirus 2009 - offers real-time protection, full system and email scanning, operating system protection.
• Norton Antivirus 2009 - detects and deletes spyware and malware, protects emails and instant messaging.

Portable document format (PDF)

Sending forms, quotes, invoices, tenders and other important business documents can be simplified by converting the raw documents, spreadsheets and websites into PDF, which means anyone can read the documents but only you can change them. 

Cost-saving tip? Andrew says the cheaper products, which convert documents into and out of PDF, will suit 99% of businesses.

IT ready

Visit your local small business software specialist today to get your office computers fitted out with the tools your staff need.

You'll be surprised how cost-effectively you can do it.