They're [Microsoft] really going ahead with this community license. I think in the long run it will be a good thing for Microsoft.

Accounting software is the first strategic business application that many small firms purchase, making it an important on-ramp for other business applications, which need to integrate with the accounting solution, and a first step towards higher end financial solutions. Intuit has long been the undisputed leader in the small business accounting space with its QuickBooks product line. But Microsoft, which has a solid base in the mid-market financials arena, wants to build volume in the small business accounting market.

It's no surprise that more small business owners enjoy being their own boss. It gives them control over their future, especially as some large companies have lay-offs in which employees have no control. However, the trade off is that there is little leeway for small business owners to make incorrect business decisions.

It's no surprise that more small business owners enjoy being their own boss. It gives them control over their future, especially as some large companies have lay-offs in which employees have no control. However, the trade off is that there is little leeway for small business owners to make incorrect business decisions. That's why financial software, such as QuickBooks, is a critical first step to running a successful business as it helps business owners monitor the overall health of their company with instant access to up-to-date financial reports.

In a lot of cases, the IT solutions may not map to what business process needs and metrics are. That's where a lot of companies fall down.

It should be easy to connect Microsoft to Microsoft. The bottom line is they have to do it and they're kind of late.