Software suggestions to help manage my small business?

Question by Tiffany M: Software suggestions to help manage my small business?
I am a Virtual Assistant and I am seeking the best software to fulfill all my needs (preferably, all in one).

What I’m really seeking is a few things. First, I want something where I can add all of my projects onto a calendar (I sub-contract form a couple of different sources, it would be nice to differentiate these sources at first glance; color-coded maybe?), to track start date, due completion date and actual completion date, as well as the dates that I submit bid to potential clients with room to put the bid detail in.

I would also like to be able to store client data (contact info, work history, etc.) within this program.

And, it would be the icing on the cake if I could take that information directly and create invoices (would it be too much to ask to have this info keep track of my financial records).

Well, actually, the icing would be if the software had a time-tracker tool that would actually track how long I spent on any certain software.

I know that these features are available in an infinite amount of combination by themselves, but all the features that I could roll into one software, the better. LOL, I know I’m rambling at this point, but I’m looking for some good suggestions here; what do you use?

I’m familiar with a variety of software, but I want your opinion on what is the best small-business solution.

I considered ACT, but it really lacks the financial I’m seeking. I want to be able to keep record of client correspondences as well as jobs completed. Would you advice QB with client manager?

Of course, freeware would be great, but if I could find the perfect software solutions, I definitely would be open to paying, lol.

I would love to hear all of your suggestions and experiences, what do you use?
I am also interested in hearing why you prefer/suggest a specific software. Pros and cons, really.

Best answer:

Answer by anitaj
Microsoft Office Small Business 2007

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