Researching the best open source accounting software isn’t as simple as one might think. There are a number of important variables you must consider before taking the leap. This is especially important for those businesses that already have an accounting/bookkeeping solution in place. Making sure you can achieve the same level of control and functionality is very important when switching to a Linux-centric accounting application.
Perhaps one of the best, proven in the wild solutions for enterprise grade accounting software is Bean Books from System76. This accounting software provides you with an eagle eye view of your accounts while at the same time, providing the ability to zero down on each transaction as needed.
Bean Book features include:
Bean Books is best for companies that deal with multiple vendors, have inventory or a medium sized enterprise environment. It comes with a free trial, is run from Bean Books servers, however the code is open source (a customized Bean Books license to protect trademark, etc) and can be installed locally if you prefer.
Some accounting applications fall into the category of ERP (enterprise resource planning). This is a type of software that goes beyond merely accounting and also takes into account other aspects of a business. LedgerSMB is such a program.
LedgerSMB offers its users the following features:
LedgerSMB is best for companies needing an all inclusive ERP application that goes beyond standard accounting applications. With its asset management, depreciation tracking and profit center spotting, it’s easy to see why LedgerSMB might be a strong contender for any size growing business. Like Bean Books, LedgerSMB is an open source software solution. That means you’ll never need to be concerned about vendor lock-in.
Not all the best Linux compatible accounting software is completely open source. I can think of one application that is actually a dual-license. This means it’s both open source with a non-FoSS commercial license used as well. The application I’m talking about is called PostBooks.
One of the advantages of using something like PostBooks is that you have a thriving company that supports it should you require help. Additionally, PostBooks is offered with other business bundles should your company opt to go that route. Because of this, PostBooks is considered ERP software that includes accounting capabilities.
PostBooks features include:
PostBooks is well suited for a business that does manufacturing and shipping, while also ensuring their bookkeeping needs are addressed on a day to day basis.
Another great open source accounting application is FrontAccounting. This ERP software is really geared for those companies in the sales and manufacturing arena. FrontAccounting is GNU licensed free software, which is great since it demonstrates the power of FoSS applications for the business space.
FrontAccounting features include:
So which is the best solution for your business? The easiest answer is that you must identify the enterprise features you’re looking for, then setup a test instance/server so that you can import your existing data into the application for testing.
One thing is for sure. Locally installed solutions like GnuCash and similar applications found in most distro software repositories is usually best left for individual usage or at best, a small business with limited needs.
What say you? What do you look for in Linux compatible accounting software. Perhaps you have an application in mind that is not listed here? Hit the comments and tell me about it.
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