Choosing the right small business software for your home-based internet business can be a confusing undertaking to say the least. It's a good thing most women love to shop because otherwise it could be really frustrating. The challenge in choosing small business software is striking a balance between what you have to have and what you can afford. There are many small business software packages that have a number of features included, even though you may not use all of them. Then, there are some that are sold in individual modules where you buy only what you need.

The first step in shopping for small business software is to distinguish between what you need now, what you want, and what you might need in the future. The second step is to define your budget. Never start buying small business software until these two steps are done. Otherwise, you are likely to buy some of those things you want, rather than the things you definitely need, and then you'll end up with a busted budget and you won't have the small business software that is crucial to running your business.

At a minimum, most businesses need a recordkeeping system, a word processor and an email program. Other small business software packages you may or may not need include spreadsheet programs, database programs, web design and graphic design programs, time management programs, and desktop publishing programs.

Some small business software packages, like Microsoft