Around 30 per cent of small businesses fail within three years, with poor financial management cited as a major contributor.

Two versions of Office Accounting, which is certified by both HM Revenue & Customs and the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICEAW), are available. Office Accounting Express is free and is designed for new and home-based businesses. Office Accounting Professional costs £149.95 and offers additional features such as stock management and job costing.

Gareth Arnold, office accounting product manager at Microsoft UK, observes: ‘Many small business owners today manage their business with a simple spreadsheet or have a shoebox of receipts, so they lack a comprehensive picture of their finances. Office Accounting brings this data together in one place, giving them far better control over their finances and cashflow.’

You can download both versions, including a free 60-day trial of Office Accounting Professional, from www.msofficeaccounting.co.uk