You know you need it for your business, but what is the best way to sort through all the accounting systems out there? These days there are many different ways to purchase accounting systems. Here are the main ways to find and purchase accounting systems today.

Partner

Many accounting software companies sell their products through partners, who are often referred to as VARs or Value Added Resellers. The main benefit of purchasing your software from a VAR is that they are typically located near you and can provide training and implementation help, and can also help support you as time goes on. Sometimes VARs will be listed on a software company’s Web site, or else you can simply call the company and ask if there is a VAR near you.

Retail Stores

Most basic accounting systems can be purchased at retail stores these days, such as office supply stores. You may get a better price on software when purchasing it from a retail store, but you also may miss out on some of the services you could get by purchasing through a VAR or other reseller. And without talking to a company representative, VAR or reseller, it is hard to know whether the system can handle your specific needs. The more complex accounting systems won’t typically be found at retail stores.

Accountant

Your accountant could be a great resource in helping you select the right accounting system for your business. A great advantage to working with your accountant on this is that he or she knows your business and what kinds of special features and needs you have that accounting software could help with. Accountants usually have the experience and knowledge of available systems, and which one would fit best for you. Some accountants are resellers or partners of software companies, and others simply make recommendations.

Online

The term “accounting software” is searched for in Google about 40,000 times per month! People are going to the Web to do their research to find out which accounting systems are out there. However, searching for the term ‘accounting software’ does not give you a neatly organized, comprehensive list of accounting systems. Instead of doing a Google Search, use www.findaccountingsoftware.com or www.capterra.com. Both of these Web sites help you narrow down your search by plugging in your price range and the features you need. You can even talk to representatives of the Web site via phone and have vendors contact you. These Web sites can save you many hours and give you a comprehensive list of companies, so you can find the one that is right for you.