There's tons of business software out there, but what software programs does any small business really need? What's the point of buying and installing business software if you're not going to use it or if it makes a particular task more complicated? With this in mind, here's a list of basic business software programs that can save your small business time and money.
1. Anti-Virus Software
With wave after wave of viruses sweeping into inboxes and infecting Web sites, this is must-have business software. The best of these software programs offer a range of filtering and protection options and make it easy to frequently update the program's files, so your computer is protected against the latest virus versions. My pick; McAfee VirusScan.
2. Office Suite Software
Office suite software saves you time and money through program integration; being able to quickly move data from a word-processing program into a spreadsheet, or to embed one application within another is a real time-saver. My business software preference is for a complete office suite that also offers contact management and e-mail programs - such as Microsoft Office XP Pro.3. Contact Management Software
It's hard to imagine a business operating nowadays without some form of contact management software, and for businesses with sales staffs that need to track progress with prospects over time, it's critical. Look for contact management software that's integrated with e-mail programs, and has the capability to import contacts from other programs. My pick, Act!, integrates with Outlook and handhelds.4. Accounting Software
Every small business needs to plan and manage its financial resources, and good accounting software simplifies this task. Excellent accounting software also simplifies data entry and financial report production, and provides the tools necessary to manage your business' payroll, and tax collection and reporting. Simply Accounting is my preference for this business software.5. Voice Recognition Software
If your work day involves a lot of time pounding away on a computer keyboard, voice recognition software may improve your productivity and save you from repetitive strain injuries. Besides creating text by speaking aloud, some voice recognition software programs allow you to manage e-mail and other programs by voice. Dragon's NaturallySpeaking offers Preferred, Pro and Medical versions.