For businesses, the traditional desktop software suite has long dominated the landscape. However, other small business software packages have begun to capture a large share of the marketplace due to their superior functionality and versatility. Before purchasing business software packages, businesses should do their due diligence to see whether there is a better solution.

Some of these new software packages have innovative features that push the envelope of what business software can accomplish. Many of these software packages can beat traditional desktop software on price and offer more robust functionality. Regardless of the best system to use, the software applications that businesses rely on keep increasing in their functionality, helping businesses improve their processes and advance business prospects. Here are some key developments in business software that have aided businesses.

Integration of CRM with Business Accounting

One major advance is QuickBooks alternative software that handles both business accounting and CRM with the same program. Some software requires another add-on that customers need to purchase in order to integrate it with the accounting software. Now, there are applications that handle both functions and businesses need only purchase one package. Integration of the two functions is absolutely vital in today's business environment. This process introduces synergy between business records and customer relationships, and data can be seamlessly shared between the two functions. The ability to see invoices in the CRM system provides businesses with an advantage.

Accounting with the Cloud

Previously, business software was tethered to a desktop. This meant that business data had to be accessed only at one location and the number of people who could access key data was limited. However, the cloud has opened up all sorts of possibilities for business software. The most obvious benefit is that business data can be accessed from more devices now. Business owners can work from their mobile devices or tablets. In addition, software that runs via that cloud can be frequently and easily updated. This enables the software to continuously remain current. Cloud-based software also improves the customer service experience, making support readily available to obtain. Users can pay for this software through a monthly subscription, meaning that they do not have to make the investment upfront.

Mobile Versions of Business Software

As mentioned before, cloud applications open up a whole new set of possibilities for business software. Mobile business intelligence has changed the way that businesses handle their transactions and accounting. Businesses can access this information either using their mobile web browsers or dedicated applications. This area has become known as mobile business intelligence. This allows business to make faster decisions around the clock instead of being restricted to business hours. Mobile business intelligence gives users access to the latest data. Businesses will likely have to turn to mobile business intelligence because if they do not, their competitors likely will. The ability to access this data in real-time will likely improve operational efficiency for a business. Applications are focusing on usability to make mobile devices better able to run business software at all times.

The Rise of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence makes businesses more agile and smarter. Artificial intelligence can manipulate data in real-time to help businesses find flexible and up-to-date solutions. Artificial intelligence uses algorithms to help businesses discover optimal solutions to problems. This harnesses the advances in computing power for the good of businesses. Contrary to popular impressions, artificial intelligence is not just robots and physical systems. Artificial intelligence is also about how to increase the power of software and computing systems. It is also about increasing the power and the breadth of applications available to users on their mobile devices. Businesses may be beneficiaries of artificial intelligence without even knowing it as AI heightens the quality of the products that they use. Eventually, artificial intelligence will lead to greater automation in all business processes. Businesses are just scratching the surface of the applications of artificial intelligence.