Apple accounting: don't worry, Mac users, QuickBooks has options for you.

• Author: Eisen, Ilene
• Position: Office software

I've been consulting on accounting software for more than 35 years and I've always told clients that using a Windows-based system has more--or better--options than doing accounting on a Mac. However, since the beginning of the year, my phone has been ringing off the hook with new clients who are using a Mac, want to use QuickBooks and have no interest in Windows computers. So, I've had to re-think my approach.

My new strategy uses one of three options: Use software designed for a Mac, use online software or install the Windows operating system on a Mac. Each strategy has its advantages and disadvantages, so the final decision depends on the needs and wants of the particular business. Depending on the option the client uses, I have modified my approach, so I've included how I work with each group of clients.

Desktop Software Designed for a Mac

QuickBooks has only one desktop version designed for a Mac, QuickBooks for Mac (http://quickbooks.intuit.com/mac), which is similar to QuickBooks Pro. I recommend this product for small businesses that have only basic inventory needs. This program can support up to three users in a multi-user environment. QuickBooks for Mac is not appropriate if the business needs multiple units of measure, sales orders, multi-currency or other advanced features.

I have many service industry clients who are quite happy using this software. To work with these clients, I either do a remote session or have the client create a backup in the Windows formal so I can work with the file and make adjustments on my Windows computer. When I'm done, I send them a listing of the adjustments.

Keep in mind that you should never convert the file back to a Mac format once it has been converted to a Windows format, since this will corrupt the data and create a "round tripping" error.

Online Software

This is a great option for many businesses as it allows users 24-7 access from multiple locations and, quite often, multiple devices. I really like this option for Mac and Windows users since the business does not need to invest as heavily in information systems, networks, hardware, backup systems, etc. QuickBooks users can take advantage of two options for online access to software: QuickBooks Online or hosted QuickBooks.

QuickBooks Online is available in three versions: Simple Start, Essentials and Plus-- (http://quickbooks.intuit.com/online/ compare/). You can "expand" the software with online apps.

Intuit is promoting the use of apps...