If you are a small business owner, you have probably inquired if computerized accounting programs would be best for your business. In actuality, there are advantages and disadvantages for both manual and computerized accounting systems. Manual books may be ideal for some small "one man" businesses, but even these can get cumbersome over time. The accuracy required for accounting records makes the use of software programs more beneficial. Not to mention, since most basic accounting software packages do not require extensive knowledge of accounting to operate, they are perfect for the small business owner.

The most commonly used computerized accounting programs are QuickBooks, Quicken and Peachtree. Each one has software packages geared towards a specific type of business, a specific sized business, as well as options designed specifically for accounting professionals. For example, QuickBooks offers (point of sale) POS systems for retail businesses that automatically record each sale into the business's accounting data. Sales taxes are computed, collected, and entered into the appropriate accounts within the program. When monthly or quarterly sales taxes, employee taxes, and other expenses are due, the computer will automatically calculate amounts and even allow the business owner to automatically print checks for the payments.

While these computerized accounting programs are designed with the novice user in mind, they also offer options for larger companies and more experienced accounting professionals. For example, Peachtree is most commonly used by accounting professionals who track the accounting activities of multiple clients and businesses. As a software program, the accounting features in Peachtree are intended to be more robust to offer accounting professionals more options for the tasks and responsibilities inherent to their practice. For example, where a novice business owner might create Profit & Loss Statements in QuickBooks, a professional accountant would create a Balance Sheet, Income Statement, and Statement of Cash Flows using Peachtree.

Computerized accounting programs come in all shapes and sizes to meet a variety of marketplace needs, from the sole proprietor working out of their home, to the large multi-national corporation who must track multiple accounting records in multiple countries. For accounting professionals, learning how to effectively use these computer programs is essential in today's business climate. Without extensive knowledge of these programs, an accountant in today's job market will find their skills far inferior to their colleagues. As such, most accounting and bookkeeping degree programs include several courses and class requirements focusing on computerized accounting.