Software Review

Profit v4.0

By Lowell Conn, Cyberwalker Media Syndicate

Accounting programs are not generally exciting or interesting. They tend to be boring, numbers-driven and, at best, look like a staid version of Microsoft Excel with plenty of extras that can be filed under "Snooze".

Profit from Champion Business Systems Inc. breaks this mold with accounting software that has an expansive array of options to appeal to seasoned bookmakers and an easy-to-use interface to appease first-time number-crunchers.

Software aesthetics is not a big priority. The program either works or it doesn't and a small business owner wants good value, not good looks.

But the first thing you notice when running Profit is that it looks really good. It has an engaging appearance, with all of the major components available in on-screen file cabinets that organize the program. The layout is simple and helpful for those of us not sure where to start, but not in a way that will obstruct bookkeepers who know exactly where they are going.

All accounting and business functions are presented in graphical modes similar to their use. You enter invoicing information on a screen that resembles an invoice ledger and enter checking information on a screen that has a check on it. All of these screens are printable for actual use in your business enhancing an already easy-to-use interface.
For accounting beginners, the help pages are laid out very logically.

Every possible business function, from sales and purchasing to employee records, is presented under major subheads. With little number-crunching experience, Profit guided my fictitious enterprise through all essential stages of the business cycle.

Still, Profit is not a perfect program. For Windows software, it is surprisingly weak in its multi-tasking capability. It runs smoothly with other programs, but users will be hard pressed to complete more than one task at a time within the software. Attempts to modify set-up options while modifying an open invoice were met with an error message that said the data was currently being utilized.

Sure, it's simple to close down one option and open another but Windows-based software deserves better multiple-open-option capability. If the last comment appears to be picking nits, the criticism of the heavy price tag won't.

At a cost of $632 US ($900 Canadian), it is understandable that some small business owners will forego this program and continue accounting with paper and pen.
Profit is a strong accounting program suited for all types of small business owners.

It provides easy navigation for those unfamiliar with accounting waters. Experienced bookkeepers won't be disappointed; it's powerful despite its ease of use.

Reviewer's rating: 5 / 5
Comments: Profit v4.0 is a refreshing, good-looking accounting program that will appeal to business owners with all degrees of sophistication but it's pricey.

Price: $632 US