Instead of keeping all your customer records the old fashioned way, make use of the options provided by accounts receivable databases. You have a business and your business costs money to run. A/R software will help minimize the time you spend determining who owes you money and allows you to focus on gaining more customers and increasing your revenue stream.

An A/R database can help you determine the best course of action to keep your business running in the black. A customer accounts receivable database can help you:

1. Keep up with outstanding invoices with an A/R data base

2. Track customer payment patterns with your account receivable database to anticipate late payments

3. Keep finances in order for tax season and in case of audits

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Find the right A/R database software for your business

So the old ledger just isn't cutting it anymore. The erasing, and marking and flipping through pages has become tedious and frustrating. Now that you've decided to make the move to a software title, the question is finding the right one.

I recommend: Manage More Business Software offers a number of solutions that adjust to large or small businesses. Another option is the software title Harp by Quadax Incorporated. Because both of these titles are smaller than some of the big name software packages, they don't come with some of the more advanced options that larger companies may require.

Select an online accounts receivable database

Setting up a receivables database on your personal computer may be faster than accessing it online, but with broadband speed increasing and knowing your data is safe even if your computer fries, it's worth the few extra seconds it takes to access information. There are a number of services that offer online accounts receivable databases.

I recommend: Aplicor offers great online services for Accounts Receivable software that offers online, live support should you need assistance. Office Financials software is actually a template for Microsoft Access that helps turn Microsoft Office into an accounts receivable suite of applications. You can customize it within the limitations of Microsoft Office. Check out their site and note the very affordable price at the bottom of the page.

Hire an A/R database specialist to setup your new software

You may have the perfect piece of software, but you may not have the time to set it up yourself if you want to meet all the needs of your customer base. Finding a database specialist maybe your best option in this case.

I recommend: Guru is a great place to start looking for database designers. The search options allow you to select the industry you're seeking freelancers from and included keywords. Post projects for free at Freelancer Jobs Network and get results quickly.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Use a template to help create accounts receivable database. Finding a good template can help you save time and money.