Microsoft Office is the most popular suite of business productivity software. It includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Although there are other applications available that perform the same functions, the Office applications are the de facto standard in the business world.

QuickBooks is the leader in accounting software. It is useful for invoicing, keeping customer records, and keeping track of your inventory. In addition, you can manage your business's finances in the same application. QuickBooks provides add-ons to handle business functions such as payroll and credit card processing.

Quicken is the ideal financial software for small home-based businesses that do not need the extra functionality of QuickBooks. You can track both personal and business expenses, and it is also helpful in preparing your taxes.

Stamps.com lets you print postage right from your computer so you do not have to run to the post office each time you need to ship a package. It integrates with QuickBooks and several other popular software packages.

RetailEdge offers an efficient way to manage your inventory and keep track of your customer sales. In addition, RetailEdge provides credit card point of sale functions.

Home-based business Advice

Operating a small business is not just about working for yourself, it's also about having the necessary management skills, industry expertise, technical skills, finance and of course a long-term vision to grow and succeed.

When you're starting up a home-based business there's a wide range of government advice and support available. Most state and territory governments provide home-based business kits and fact sheets.

Small Business Field Officers provide practical, on the ground assistance to small businesses across Australia. also offer a wide range of advice and support for new businesses. YouBusiness Enterprise Centres 'll find them in most states, the Northern Territory and the ACT.

Networking is an important way to keep up to date with business trends and to create business opportunities and friendships. Join a business association, check newspapers and business publications, and search the internet to find events relevant to your business.