As large corporations continue to freeze hiring or lay off workers, more and more people are opting to forge their own path as entrepreneurs. Starting a business is not a cakewalk; even the most modest of start-ups require some very basic tools. Typically, one of the first items on the list is a computer with business accounting software to track activities such as customer info, expenses and revenue. However, there is such a wide spectrum of options available in terms of cost it's difficult to determine what's necessary and what's not.
It can be an eye opening experience to discover the cost of the software tools you may be accustom to using when working for larger employers. Sarah Needleman recently published an article in The Wall Street Journal called "Spending Wisely on Technology," which primarily discussed doing your homework and exploring your options when purchasing software and hardware.
xTuple business management software has made at least one decision easier for entrepreneurs. xTuple wants to see business owners start off right with the professional tools they need to grow as the business flourishes. PostBooks® is a full featured, fully integrated accounting, sales, and operation management system that is available at no cost.
What's the catch? There is none. Really! Of course, there are other products available at xTuple for purchase, but those are optional and primarily for companies which are on the growth path and need more robust tools. PostBooks® will get you started so you can focus on making money instead of spending it!
Photo credit: Hal Mayforth, from The Wall Street Journal article
Anne Cote
Greater Seattle Area. A results-oriented project leader with experience spanning Fortune 500 companies to startups. Adaptable collaborator brings expertise managing complex projects in enterprise system modules including accounting, inventory control, sales and purchasing. Exceptional interpersonal skills establish and maintain relationships and credibility quickly with vendors, consultants and cross-functional teams alike while remaining a calming force in stressful situations. Highly organized mentor builds rapport with co-workers and customers at all organizational levels. Specialties: Budget Management, Cross-team Communication, Business Analysis, Documentation, Agile, SDLC and Waterfall Project Methodologies, Lean Software Development, On-time Project Execution, Technical Implementation, Vendor Management, Contract Negotiation. She holds a B.A. from Western Washington University in Sociology and Psychology and is certified in Database Management from Georgia Institute of Technology. Anne is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) who has spent many years managing technology projects for a wide range of companies from Philips to Microsoft.