There are a number of very good and easy to use accounting software systems which are commercially available, but none of them will solve the problems of inaccurate or poor-quality financial records. All they will do is generate bad information faster. This is one of the reasons that the computer has also probably caused more headaches for the owners of modern businesses than any other single cause. If you want to use a computer-based accounting package, either in your own business, with a service bureau, or through your accountant, it is imperative that you generate accurate information to be entered into the system.

The real value of accounting software becomes apparent once it is running smoothly in your business. Your accountant can then function in the capacity for which he was trained, not as a “number cruncher”, but as your business adviser, consultant, and strategist. Both of you can focus not on producing reports for various regulatory agencies but on analysing your business to make it more profitable.