• The majority of accounting work is done with computer technology rather than by hand.accounting calculator over the hundred dollar bank notes image by Elnur from Fotolia.com
  
  Accounting software systems are widely used in business accounting. Such systems began to be used in the late 1960s. As technology advances, accounting systems must be able to adapt to remain relevant. Many companies that have used the same accounting system for many years are being required to update their systems as computer operating systems advance. Several older accounting systems run on DOS while newer systems are developed for use with Windows and Snow Leopard.
  
  

Accessibility

• Accounting systems used to only be accessible to large businesses. As technology has advanced, more options have become available to business owners and the general public, allowing for easier access to accounting systems. Consumers have choices of several different accounting systems sold online and in retail stores. Simple programs can be used by almost anyone to keep up with small business or personal-accounting needs while more complex programs meet the needs of larger corporations or diverse personal-accounting needs.
  
  

Complexity

• Business-accounting software has developed from basic procedures to more complex systems that allow for more functions. These programs can figure and keep track of inventory; print payroll checks and receipts; complete deductions; and develop reports for financial agencies, including tax information. This makes end-of-year tax filing and any necessary audits much easier by keeping data easily accessible and organized. Computerized accounting systems also lessen the need for paperwork, reducing office waste. Many more complex accounting systems can be tailored by software developers to meet individual companies' needs.
  
  

Hardware Requirements

• Older DOS-based accounting system programs required less hard drive space than their more technologically advanced counterparts, but may not be fully compatible with newer operating systems. New programs require more hard-drive storage space to accommodate graphics and more functions. While many new programs are developed to be Windows compatible there are also similar programs tailored to meet the functionality requirements of Mac-based operating systems such as Snow Leopard while maintaining the same functions and feel of their Windows counterparts.