Beginner level · Module 5: Digital Accounting Tools · Lesson 2 of 3
Accounting Software
Understand what accounting software does and how to choose it.
In this lesson you will
- Describe core accounting software features
- Choose software for a small organisation
Key concepts
accounting softwareinvoices and billsbank reconciliationreports
The lesson
Accounting software such as GnuCash (free and open source), QuickBooks or Wave records transactions in accounts and produces statements automatically.
Core features: chart of accounts, sales invoices, supplier bills, bank reconciliation and reports such as the income statement and balance sheet.
Choose by needs and context: cost, offline use, number of users, support available locally and the reports donors or owners need.
Step by step
- Set up a sample company in free software.
- Enter a few transactions.
- Run an income statement.
- Compare two products against criteria.
Practice activity
Write a short software recommendation for a small organisation.
Expected result: A justified recommendation based on needs and constraints.
Check your understanding
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Name three core accounting software features.
Show answer
Chart of accounts, invoices and bills, bank reconciliation and reports.
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Why consider offline use?
Show answer
Internet access may be unreliable.
Taught live by an instructor — online or in person. Free course lessons are for self-study and do not lead to a certificate — see registration options.