Ask any small business owner what takes up the majority of his time and his answer will probably be bookkeeping. Using a program such as Sage accounting software can dramatically reduce the time it takes while providing you with more useful financial reports and information.

So what should you look for when purchasing a small business accounting software package?

1. Ease of Use
2. Support
3. Ability to grow with your business
4. Reports

It is completely pointless buying a new accounting system if nobody can understand how to use it. The better ones are easy to install, set up and use and make navigation easy and intuitive.

All computer software comes with an online manual but sometimes you need the personal touch. So look for a system that offers online access, email and perhaps even a toll free telephone number for those questions that are difficult to put onto paper.

You may have a small business now but I am sure that fully intend to grow bigger. You may not envisage taking on the McDonalds but perhaps become a medium rather than small enterprise. When you purchase accounting software, your new package should be flexible enough to grow in line with your business. You do not want to have to upgrade and re-input all your data again in a few years time.

Finally, a business grows via good management and that depends on reports. Yes, I know they don't make fascinating reading. But understanding and obtaining the right ones are vital to the success of your company. Sage accounting software makes obtaining reports relevant to your business needs very simple.

The whole point of putting an accounting software package in place is to free up your time so that you can work on your business strategy rather than spending hours trying to sort out figures.