What Is Open Source Accounting Software, and How Can It Help You?
There are many new businesses opening in the world today and most are in need of help when it comes to financial accounting software. Fortunately, open source accounting software provides you with free programs available for download. Typically, open source accounting software is built from an open source platform and uses such operating systems as Linux and Internet browsers available from Mozilla Firefox. Open source accounting software allows new business owners the chance to succeed with zero cost.
Some Pros and Cons of Open Source Accounting Software
While open source applications are a vital part of the software industry, they also need a proper evaluation before making a major decision. Although open source licensing may have no cost, open source computing is certainly not free and you should consider where open source is a practical stage for your accounting software. There are several platforms, but typically open source accounting software begins with a small business developing the foundation application code; and then companies, individuals, and also some small groups test it to determine the code’s usefulness and whether or not they have an interest in making the code more attractive and pleasing to the eye. This public involvement generates the opportunity for a great relationship between the original developers as well as a wide range of other ones.
Free Open Source Accounting Software Choices Available
TurboCASH .7 offers open source accounting software that’s zero cost for all to download and distribute if you adhere to General Public License terms. It’s for small businesses and offers one of the world’s first fully-featured open source Account Packages. TurboCASH is so much more than just a plain home finances or bookkeeping system for small businesses because it includes the most functions a business could ever need, such as creditors, debtors, bank reconciliation, general ledgers, VAT accounting and more.
GnuCash 2.0.0 is a recent release that offers free, open source accounting programs as well that’s available in Linux that includes major advances over its last version. The new 2.0.0 is based on gtk2 GUI technology which means its developers worked tirelessly to incorporate the Gnome Human Interface Guidelines for reliability and to offer a nice look and feel for your entire desktop.
Open Source Accounting Software Offers Independent Advisors as Consultants
Accounting software is pretty much hopeless if the small business owner isn’t able to even use it. Thankfully, there are consultants that act as independent advisors to help you with your new open source accounting software. They’ll help you set up a chart of your accounts in your new business and can show you how to import data from other accounting packages into TurboCASH. They can also facilitate the conversion process from your old manual bookkeeping methods to an electronic system run under TurboCASH for existing businesses not using any accounting software. Perhaps most important is the ongoing advice and help consultants can provide regarding account maintenance and data entry.
So, if you’re still trying to decide if open source accounting software is for you or your small business check out some of the free downloadable options. You may quickly discover that open source accounting software is the way of the future.