The improvements make QuickBooks Premier Edition 2009 a good value for new users and a worthwhile upgrade for current customers. A less costly Pro edition lacks industry-specific financial reports and inventory-tracking tools, but it may appeal to smaller service businesses on a budget.

Overall, Zoho Invoice will appeal to two types of users: businesses that do not use automated invoicing or use a less-capable solution, and businesses that now use full-fledged accounting software but don't require all its capabilities.

Microsoft Office Accounting still integrates better with Office applications, but Intuit QuickBooks Premier Edition 2008 retains its lead in accounting capabilities. Overall, the upgraded integration with online services and the friendlier startup routine make QuickBooks Premier Edition 2008 a good choice for newcomers and a solid upgrade for existing customers.

QuickBooks Pro 2006 is an essential purchase for any business needing software to balance the books.

If you have a small business and are looking for an accounting solution, this package packs a punch.

Small Business Pro looks like it has all the features you would need in a financial package but is actually rather shoddy.