One of the great strengths of Windows is the excellent range of software that has been developed over the years. One of the fun things about switching to Linux is exploring some of the alternatives to those programs. I've blogged about a couple in the past (GSmartControl, i-Nex)
One of the things that I've only recently got around to searching for is an accounting package similar to Quicken (or, a very long time ago, Microsoft Money) and, as always, it was a simple task to find a free & open-source replacement: GnuCash.
GnuCash is a full-featured accounting package designed for small businesses and individuals:
"Designed to be easy to use, yet powerful and flexible, GnuCash allows you to track bank accounts, stocks, income and expenses. As quick and intuitive to use as a checkbook register, it is based on professional accounting principles to ensure balanced books and accurate reports."
As with all accounting packages, it helps to have a basic grasp of accounting fundamentals (double-entry bookkeeping) in order to set up structured accounts, but the instruction manual can provide all the necessary guidance should you need help. It's also possible to import QIF & OFX data - a really useful feature if your bank allows you to download your statements in either of these formats: it can save an awful lot of typing when setting up the initial accounts!
GnuCash is absolutely free and for Ubuntu-based distros can be downloaded and installed from the Software Center. For a more up-to-date version, download the source code from the GnuCash website where you may also be surprised to find downloads for Windows and Mac, so, not only is GnuCash free, it is also cross-platform!
Until recently I've been using a simple spreadsheet to keep track of my money (what little there is!) and to forecast cash flows - not any longer; from now on, I'll be using this powerful application.
Sources & References:
- GnuCash: Welcome to GnuCash.org
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