CheckMark Software — MultiLedger

While CheckMark has foregone bloating the MultiLedger system with many of the add-on features that have been added to more expensive programs over the years, this can be a positive aspect to some users because it keeps the price point low and keeps the program focused on its core functions while also preventing the program from growing overly complex. That said, the program does not offer advanced contact management, “dashboard” views of task summaries or alerts. The MultiLedger system does include a secure, full-time audit trail and other user security features. The newest version (7.0) includes an enhanced Command Center, a cash flow report, improved inventory management and printable deposit slips.

Reporting & Management Functions -- 3.5 Stars
Reporting functions in MultiLedger are very easily accessible, and the system offers a good range of financial reports that includes individual income statements for each cost center or subsidiary unit, financial snapshots, cash flow, balance sheet reports and trial balance. Prior-year comparisons and budget comparisons are available, as well. Financial reports also include drilldown capabilities. Users can view, print or output reports to PDF or plain text, which enables copying the data into Word or Excel for additional manipulation. No tools are available for reminders, alerts or to-do lists, although users can add any number of comment fields to transactions.

Import/Export/Integration -- 3 Stars
MultiLedger fully integrates with CheckMark’s Payroll solution, but does not offer direct integration with Word, Excel or Outlook, which results in no calendaring or direct client communication tools and requires users to export to plain text and then open in Word or Excel for using these programs. Likewise, the program does not offer remote access functions.

Help & Support Options -- 4 Stars
MultiLedger is very easy to learn and use and provides adequate built-in assistance features, while online DIY Help options include a Knowledge Base and tutorials. Support is included for the first 60 days and is offered afterward through subscription packages.

Relative Value -- 4 Stars
MultiLedger is a good, basic small business bookkeeping system that is fully capable of handling the nuts and bolts of dual-entry, GAAP-compliant accounting while providing a full-time audit trail and other security features. The system does not offer some of the perks of its competitors, such as dashboards, to-do lists, alerts, calendaring, remote access or reminders, but this has also helped to keep the cost of the system in the very affordable range of $399 for up to 10 users.

2008 Overall Rating: 4 Stars