MYOB 4

There are over 800,000 small businesses in Australia. While most of them would benefit greatly from using a computer package to do their books, only a fraction of them do.
MYOB offers full-featured small business accounting — with support for sales and receivables, purchases and payables, stock control, job tracking, cashbook and payroll (optional), all integrated into the general ledger. Parallel versions are sold for Macintosh and Windows.
This new version strengthens MYOB’s appeal by offering easy access to its rich features, and improved information management.
MYOB helps you get going with a getting started’ manual (with tutorial) and a 30-minute video. MYOB 4 packs many more (30) sample charts of accounts for businesses such as barristers, landscapers or dance studios. Accounting concepts are introduced gently.
You run MYOB from its Command Centre (see screenshot). You can open multiple windows on your data from this graphic representation of your accounts.
MYOB goes out of its way to hide the details of double entry from the user. By establishing account links (for, say, superannuation payments), you can run your accounts by doing familiar activities (say entering a cheque or invoice), and MYOB will automatically create the appropriate journal entries. This facility would make MYOB attractive to someone graduating from a package like Quicken.
Automation of your financial management is supported. To Do lists can carry ad hoc and system generated reminders (such as low inventory warnings or expiring discounts). The package will dial your phone for you, and help you maintain a contact record. An accessible card file metaphor is used for employees, companies and company contacts. You edit your chart of ac-counts through a card file.
New in Version 4 is support for recurring transactions — such as regular sales and purchase orders. The package supports over 80 management reports, which can be printed, written to file, or viewed onscreen.
The new Payroll option is fully integrated with the general ledger. It supports a range of hire bases, and allows unlimited deductions and employer expenses. As well as pay cheques, it will produce pay advice stubs, and group certificates.
While MYOB hails from the US, this version is extensively customised for Australia. This makes take-up easier. Distributor Data-Tech boasts a network of MYOB literate consultants, and offers an extended support plan. This includes a 1-800 number for help and updates of tax tables for the Payroll module. Data-Tech also supplies a wide range of stationery, though you can use your own.
The package is network aware, but supports only one user at a time. Password security is structured in two levels — master and sub-passwords. Holders of sub-passwords can be barred from parts of the accounts. You could, for example, let someone print, but not write, pay cheques.
MYOB offers a feature-rich product in an accessible package, customised for Australian use. Its task automation promises efficiency in day-to-day operation.