Johannesburg, 26 Sep 2001
Meeting the needs of the growing small business market, Accpac Africa has revealed the latest version of its popular small office home office (SOHO) Internet-ready accounting software, Simply Accounting Pro V8.5.
The new package, while distributed via Accpac's existing channel will also be available to end-users from software retailers such as Incredible Connection. Jeremy Waterman, managing director of Accpac Africa, adds that Accpac's dealer base is growing as many resellers have shown considerable interest in the new software, "largely due to its ease of use," he says.
At recent focus groups held to discuss entry-level accounting systems, the experts repeatedly emphasized the need to conform to the KISS (KEEP IT SIMPLE STUPID) principle without compromising data integrity, and the checks and balances of double entry accounting.
One of the most mentioned factors was Simply Accounting Pro's set up wizards that enable simple installation and all-round ease of use, resulting in virtually no need for pre- or post-sales support. Other important factors aiding its success are the industry templates that get you up and running quickly and pre-defined reports that allow you to view the details behind every transaction. In addition, customised reports can be created using Microsoft Excel and Crystal Reports.
Simply Accounting Pro is able to generate full audit trails with unique transaction entry numbers. Its multi-currency and multi-company capabilities support simultaneous access for up to six users. Another useful function is the ability to select non-accounting terms for those unfamiliar with the industry lingo. Also, aiding the paperless office, purchase orders and invoices can be e-mailed to clients.
Although the software is new to the South African market, it has been successful internationally for many years with over 500 000 users worldwide. In Canada, it has been rated the best accounting software for small businesses. For its launch into the South African market, Accpac Africa has bundled Simply Accounting Pro with a Multimedia Training CD, which explains exactly how to set up and run the software to maximise user productivity.
Although Accpac Africa offers 30 days free telephonic support with Simply Accounting Pro, it has noticed minimal need for this service since the software became available on 1 August. Again Waterman believes this is due to the simple set-up as well as the bundled Multimedia Training CD educating users. "Simply Accounting Pro V8.5 is already positioned alongside the likes of Pastel and Brilliant's products internationally and we believe it will become the accounting software of choice for organisations in the small business sector," he concludes.
Simply Accounting Pro V8.5 retails for R1 995 including VAT. For professional accountants, Accpac Africa will be holding a series of road shows around the country showcasing Simply Accounting Pro, beginning 17 October.
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