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What are the Different Types of Accounting Software?

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

There are many types of accounting software applications on the market today. Some applications are intended to perform accounting functions for large corporate organizations, while others are meant for personal use. Still other applications fall somewhere in between, performing functions suited to small businesses, as well as those suited to the average person. Available software ranges from the very simple to the very complex, with much variation in price as well.

Accounting programs can be useful for such functions as recording and processing accounts receivable and accounts payable transactions. Some software applications can be used in payroll processing, the documentation of tax transactions, and the creation of related reports. It can also be used for billing clients and customers and debt collection. Some programs even provide for timesheet record keeping, useful for professionals who need to keep track of the hours they work.

Personal accounting software is designed to be used at home for household budgets and expenses.
Personal accounting software is designed to be used at home for household budgets and expenses.

Software that is designed for home use is often referred to as personal accounting software. This type is used mostly in managing household budgets and expenses. Some personal software makes it possible to download bank account information directly from the Internet for use with the program.

Low-end products are generally used by smaller businesses and can typically be found for sale by a variety of retailers. Usually, software in this class is not very specific and can be used for a wide range of businesses. This type of program is usually adequate for such uses as generating invoices, reconciling accounts, and handling payroll.

Some accounting programs provide timesheet record keeping.
Some accounting programs provide timesheet record keeping.

The next step up in the realm of accounting software consists of applications capable of performing a variety of functions important to business accounting. Referred to as mid-market software, accounting applications in this class perform general business accounting functions and frequently include integrated management information systems. Many software applications at this level are capable of providing for accounting in several different currencies. It is usually purchased from a dealer.

Various types of accounting software are available for use in small businesses, as well as in home budgeting.
Various types of accounting software are available for use in small businesses, as well as in home budgeting.

Higher-end software is more expensive and is usually much more complex. Generally designed for use by large businesses with millions of dollars in transactions, high-end programs usually have very sophisticated features and options. Software in this class also allows for a high level of customization. Typically, it is sold through a dealer.

Some companies choose to develop their own accounting programs, gearing them completely towards their unique needs. Other companies choose to purchase ready-made software packages. Many organizations employ a combination of the two, purchasing software and applying local modifications to make it more efficient.

Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

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Nicole Madison
Nicole Madison

Nicole’s thirst for knowledge inspired her to become a WiseGEEK writer, and she focuses primarily on topics such as homeschooling, parenting, health, science, and business. When not writing or spending time with her four children, Nicole enjoys reading, camping, and going to the beach.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon292894

The type of accounting software depends on the size of the business and also the type of business.

anon289197

The use of software depends on the kind of organization you work with and the size of that organization.

bobcat60

I have worked in the accounting profession from various view points for over 10 years. At each job I had different business accounting software. The two single most important things about accounting software, whatever kind it is, that I have found is that it must be flexible. Someone in the organization needs to be able to modify it if the situation arises that it is necessary. The other thing is, no matter how good the software is, it is useless if the operator has no knowledge of basic accounting principles.

mashapaj

While accounting applications differ depending on the context of use, size of organization implementing the application and maybe the nature of industry in their pricing and functionalities.

Are there any guidelines or consideration on the user interface design for the various intended application end users ?

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    • Personal accounting software is designed to be used at home for household budgets and expenses.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Personal accounting software is designed to be used at home for household budgets and expenses.
    • Some accounting programs provide timesheet record keeping.
      By: alexskopje
      Some accounting programs provide timesheet record keeping.
    • Various types of accounting software are available for use in small businesses, as well as in home budgeting.
      By: Eugenio Marongiu
      Various types of accounting software are available for use in small businesses, as well as in home budgeting.