IT Resources for Business
Sources of Information on Available Software ProductsAustralian Accounting Software Vendor WebsitesBasic IT TrainingOther Information
Sources of Information on Available Software Products
Due to the rapidly-changing market for software products, most directories are now published on the Internet rather than in hardcopy format.
Apple publishes a list of locally-available software for the Mac system at http://macsoftware.apple.com/au/index.lasso.
There are a number of sites on the Web where free (freeware) or low-cost (shareware) software is available. Try www.shareware.com and www.freewarehome.com. Ignore the banner advertisements and note: care should be taken with accounting systems and similar products that they are relevant to Australian standards.
Many software vendor sites on the Web offer a free trial of their programs. Potential customers may download copies of the software that expire after 30 days use or offer restricted facilities.
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Accounting systems must comply with both accounting standards and tax legislation. Thus, for example, US systems are rarely suitable for local use unless specifically modified. Major products, that include GST compliance, will be found at:
www.myob.com.au www.pastel.net.au www.quicken.com.au www.attache.com.au
TAFE colleges offer a wide range of basic IT courses. See www.tafe.nsw.edu.au or call the TAFE Information Centre on 13 16 01.
Many Business Advisory Services also run short introductory courses on IT for small business. Call 1300 650 058 for the nearest Service location.
PC User (www.pcuser.com.au), from ACP Publishing, is a useful magazine that offers practical guidance in using IBM personal computers and major software products.
Most major bookshops carry a wide range of titles for beginners. The Dummies guides are popular, as is Australia's own Ms Megabyte, who has published a book for beginners called Conquer Your Computer available in bookstores. Visit Ms Megabyte at www.getmega.com where you can sign up for a free, handy, regular e-newsletter full of computer hints and tricks. You'll also find a free online helpdesk at the site.