Just a heads up to the professionals out there.
Since I started the business I have been keeping track of my accounts on Sage Instant Accounts, (tried other Demos including Quickbooks, BYOB etc) however I found it quite restrictive in parts and it automatically assumes that you have a decent knowledge of accounting, the reports side of things was lousy and whilst you could create your own forms etc, they really shove it down you throat getting you to buy their pre-printed stuff. So recently I downloaded a copy of Microsoft Accounting Express, not having heard much about it beforehand, and the fact it is a free download I was quite sceptical about it.. But man its fantastic! Imported all my Sage accounts perfectly, and so much more configurable and the invoices/statements/reports etc look great, you dont even have to buy pre-printed stationary. And considering its the free version it really is fully functional - ideal for photographers as generally we dont have much stock being held at any one time.
It keeps track of customers and their accounts, it all ties in wonderfully with Excel, Word and Outlook. Certainly worth checking out if you are keeping serious accounts for your business. And its available in US, UK & Australian flavours (not sure about others, do a search) and it really is free, we are looking at upgrading to the full version for £149.00 but thats so we can setup payroll etc.)
Granted, like Sage there is a learning curve of sorts, but once you get to grips with it then you'll be bean-counting in no time.
Hope this helps someone.
Hope this helps someone. |
