The accounting software you choose today will have a significant impact on your financial controls in the future. Choosing a financial application is a critical decision that too many small business owners make too quickly. Only later do they realize that they need a far different functionality from the one they have.

The first temptation you need to resists is looking to see “what's out there” before you have completely assessed your business requirements. Any accounting software package should meet all legal requirements and accounting standards. The accountant should also be comfortable in using the software. To help you choose the best financial control application for your company, we have created an accounting software guide that details the critical aspects you need to look into.

What is your business structure?

A sole proprietorship has completely different needs from a corporation. In addition, if you intend to hire employees, the accounting software must have payroll functionality.

How many people will use the application?

If you currently doing the bookkeeping yourself, think ahead and determine if you will still manage your accounts in the future. If you intend to hire a single person, it is recommended to get a low-cost system. On the other hand, if you need to hire several people to manage your finances, a more expensive package may be required.

What type of computer do you use?

Though most accounting applications are designed to run on web browsers, you should also look into your operating system. Certain processes run better on Windows than on Mac or Linux and vice-versa.

What features do you need?

All accounting software will do the basic bookkeeping job. But by looking at accounting software guides though, you will discover that some applications can work harder than that. Notable features you should consider include:

• Invoicing – the invoicing function will save you a lot of time because it removes the need of re-entering information for invoice. Certain applications allow users to directly send the invoice from the software to the customer's email. This type of invoicing is becoming popular as more businesses discover the benefits of green invoicing.

• Credit Control – at the click of the mouse, some packages lets you know who owes you money, how much is owned, when payment is due.

• Payroll – small business accounting software can have a sophisticated payroll function that automatically works out the taxes due as well as the insurance contributions for the employees.

• VAT – certain business applications can track the amount of VAT collected and make the VAT quarterly return much easier for business owners.

• Management Reports – can the accounting software give a snapshot of the business operation including profit and loss statement or the cash flow?

How much activity does your business generate each month?

If your business has five large clients, then buying less powerful accounting software will suffice because you can enter the transaction manually. However, if you are operating a business with 100 or more clients who pay different amounts, then getting a more sophisticated package that automates the entire transactions is recommended.