Links for Budgeting Tools

Here are a few places you may want to check out if you are looking for budgeting and forecasting tools:

Inc. offers a rundown of 12 tools that can make dealing with your finances easier:
http://www.inc.com/guides/2010/09/12-best-tools-for-budgeting.html

A few suggestions with contact information from ehow:
http://www.ehow.com/list_6768530_budgeting-forecasting-tools.html

Reviews of a number of frequently-mentioned tools: 
http://www.capterra.com/budgeting-software

Overview of the 10 most-recommended accounting tools:
http://www.softwareadvice.com/accounting/

SCORE is a great resource, and has plenty of advice:
http://www.score.org/finance

Tools for Budgeting

Business owners are bombarded with advertisements, introductions, suggestions, and other forms of marketing. Budgeting software is no exception. How do you decide which system will work best for your business?

Budgeting, forecasting, bookkeeping, payroll are all important when it comes to your business’ finances. Manually tracking all of those numbers would be slow and not the best use of time. However, choosing between the many tools available may seem overwhelming, particularly when there is so much marketing noise.

There are a few ways you may be able to make the process of evaluating various options a bit easier:

1. Discuss the issue with your CPA. As an expert, your CPA likely has insights into both what your needs are, and what is available. Ask for recommendations, and you will immediately narrow the list of systems to consider.

2. Decide if you want a web based or installed system. Each has advantages and disadvantages. Your situation will help you determine which is most suitable.

3. Talk to your staff. If the people who must use the software feel that their opinions have been taken into account, it is likely you will have an easier time getting it fully implemented.

As you begin to look at various systems, you will want to consider cost, technology, training and support, and your specific needs. Changing your processes will require an investment of time and effort, so carefully evaluating the options before making a decision could well save you money -- and headaches -- in the long run.

We will be happy to answer any questions you may have regarding budgeting tools.