20 Best Business Software Reviewed In 2025
Best Business Software Shortlist
Here's my pick of the 10 best software from the 20 tools reviewed.
Our one-on-one guidance will help you find the perfect fit.
Business software is a valuable asset for any company. With the right software, teams can improve efficiency and enhance customer experience. But finding the right business software can be challenging, especially with so many available options.
Using my experience with finance and accounting software, I tested and compared several of the top business software available. From there, I compiled my results into in-depth reviews to help you find the best software for your unique needs. I’m confident that you’ll discover your next business software in the list below.
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Best Business Software Summary
| Tool | Best For | Trial Info | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Best for managing global teams | Free trial + demo available | From $29/month | Website | |
| 2 | Best for automating financial operations | 14-day free trial | From $25/month | Website | |
| 3 | Best for flexible call forwarding | 7-day free trial available | From $19/user/month + $5/additional user | Website | |
| 4 | Best automated accounting for SMBs | 7-day free trial | From $99/month | Website | |
| 5 | Best integrated hardware and software | Free plan available | From $29/month + processing fees | Website | |
| 6 | Best for trades efficiency | Free demo available | Pricing upon request | Website | |
| 7 | Best all-in-one CRM for small businesses | Free demo available | From $15/user/month | Website | |
| 8 | Best all-in-one business solutions | 14-day free trial | From $10/month (billed annually) | Website | |
| 9 | Best connected inventory performance | 14-day free trial + free demo available | From $349/month | Website | |
| 10 | Best AI-powered team collaboration | 14-day-free trial + free plan available | From $7/user/month (billed annually) | Website |
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LiveFlow
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.9 -
Float Financial
Visit Website -
Vena
Visit WebsiteThis is an aggregated rating for this tool including ratings from Crozdesk users and ratings from other sites.4.5
Best Business Software Reviews
Below are my detailed summaries of the best business software that made it onto my shortlist. My reviews offer a detailed look at the key features, pros & cons, integrations, and ideal use cases of each tool to help you find the best one for you.
Deel is a platform designed for managing payroll, HR, and compliance for global teams. It allows companies to hire and pay employees and contractors in over 150 countries while adhering to local labor laws.
Why I picked Deel: Deel is ideal for those looking for software that focuses on the HR side of running a business. The platform lets you hire globally without needing to establish a local entity, all while maintaining compliance. It also offers automated payroll and tax features as well as localized benefits plans. It even provides robust analytics to help you understand the costs at worker, country, and regional levels to inform business decisions for talent management.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include onboarding support, compliance management, an HRIS that manages employee data, time off, expenses, reporting, and performance management, and in-house visa and work immigration support.
Integrations include Xero, Bob, Okta, Expensify, BambooHR, Slack, QuickBooks, and NetSuite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automated global payroll
- Strong emphasis on compliance
- Support for immigration and work visas
Cons:
- Could offer more robust reports, like forecasting analytics
- Could offer more customization options
Puzzle.io is modern accounting software built for startups and small businesses. While it’s primarily an AI-native ledger, it also functions as a business operations tool that can help with financial accuracy and visibility.
Why I picked Puzzle.io: I picked Puzzle.io because it helps small teams manage both cash and accrual accounting without relying on spreadsheets or outsourced help. You can set thresholds to flag irregular spend with Spotlight, then investigate causes early. Its built-in workflows also cut down time spent on repetitive tasks like reconciliation and policy updates.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include an onboarding assistant that helps you configure your workspace based on your business size and accounting needs. You can manage accruals directly within the platform, without toggling between systems. Puzzle.io also includes built-in logic to review your books against common issues and provides a summary of flagged items for review. The interface is designed for business users as much as for accountants, so you don’t need prior expertise to get started.
Integrations include Mercury, Ramp, Brex, Every, Meow, Rippling, Gusto, Deel, Central, Stripe, Bill.com, Runway, and Causal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Real-time financial reporting and forecasting
- Built-in accrual automation for revenue and expenses
- Direct integrations with FP&A and payroll tools
Cons:
- Limited multi-currency support depending on your bank
- Not ideal for teams without accrual accounting experience
New Product Updates from Puzzle.io
Puzzle.io's Automated PDF Statement Loading
Puzzle.io has introduced automated PDF statement loading for Meow, streamlining the reconciliation process by eliminating manual downloads and uploads. For more details, visit Puzzle.io Product Updates.
Talkroute is a virtual phone system designed for business owners and their teams, enabling efficient communication through calls, text messages, and video meetings all within one application. It offers features such as call forwarding, voicemail management, and customizable greetings, allowing users to manage communications from any device.
Why I picked Talkroute: When you're considering a business communication solution, TalkRoute offers features like call forwarding and routing that are really useful. These ensure calls get to the right team members, wherever they might be, so your team can take calls on different devices and not miss important ones, even if they're away from their desks. This setup is important for keeping communication with clients and colleagues steady. You can also tweak greetings and routing to suit your business, making sure the system fits just right for what you need.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include call management across multiple devices, voicemail access, call forwarding, call recording, and detailed reporting.
Integrations include Google Sheets, HubSpot, Slack, Asana, Discord, and Gmail.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- HIPPA compliant
- Seamless integration with several tools
- Enhances collaboration and connection
Cons:
- Slight learning curve
- Occasional server interruptions
TallyPrime is an advanced business management software designed for small and medium enterprises to streamline their accounting, inventory, payroll, and compliance tasks. It provides real-time reporting, multi-user access, and efficient financial record management.
Why I picked TallyPrime: TallyPrime simplifies your sales and purchase processes, from quotes to cash and orders to payments. It ensures you stay compliant with tax regulations and provides an Edit Log to track changes in your financial records. You can also manage payroll directly within the software, integrating it with your accounting tasks. Overall, the user-friendly interface and customizable setups make it easy for your team members to get started quickly.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time reporting, multi-user capabilities, and an Edit Log for tracking changes. You can manage payroll directly within the software and integrate it with accounting tasks. The software also supports remote access and custom add-ons for enhanced functionality.
Integrations include TallyPrime Server, TallyPrime Developer, and various custom TDLs and add-ons.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable setups
- Multi-user access
- Real-time reporting
Cons:
- Limited scalability for large enterprises
- Limited third-party integrations
Square provides an advanced suite of tools for businesses, including point of sale (POS) systems, inventory management, customer engagement, and team management. Key business functions include payment processing, sales tracking, and customer relationship management.
Why I picked Square: Square's POS systems offer real-time sales insights through the Square Dashboard, which helps you manage your business efficiently. You can also utilize customer relationship management tools, which include email marketing and loyalty programs to engage your customers better. Additionally, Square simplifies team management with payroll and scheduling tools, while its banking services, such as Square Checking and Square Loans, help you manage your cash flow effectively.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include customizable POS systems that offer real-time sales insights through the Square Dashboard. You can manage customer relationships with built-in CRM software tools, including email marketing and loyalty programs. Team management is also made easy with payroll and scheduling features.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, WooCommerce, Wix, Acuity Scheduling, TotilPay, BigCommerce, Magento, GoDaddy, and Eventbrite.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Flexible omnichannel tools
- Secure payment processing
- Customizable contracts
Cons:
- Occasional connectivity issues
- Limited customization options
Simpro is a field service management software designed for various trades such as electrical, plumbing, HVAC, and security. It helps businesses improve cash flow, automate tasks, and manage jobs, inventory, and employees effectively.
Why I picked Simpro: Simpro offers real-time inventory management, automated purchase order tracking, and supplier catalog synchronization, making it easier to manage your inventory. With its strong reporting tools, you can monitor cash flow and operational efficiency. Simpro also facilitates lead management and service quotes, helping you streamline your sales processes.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time inventory management, automated purchase order tracking, and supplier catalog synchronization. Additionally, Simpro’s lead management and service quoting functionalities streamline your sales processes.
Integrations include QuickBooks, Xero, MYOB, Microsoft Outlook, Google Calendar, Zapier, Sage, Square, Stripe, and PayPal.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Lead management
- Supplier catalog sync
- Real-time inventory management
Cons:
- Requires technical knowledge
- Complex initial setup
Thryv is an advanced software solution designed for small businesses, offering tools to improve operations and customer communication. Its main user base includes small business owners across various industries such as home services, health and wellness, and legal services.
Why I picked Thryv: Thryv provides a centralized inbox for managing all client communications in one place. You can easily schedule appointments, send reminders, and process payments through its business center. The software also includes marketing tools to help manage your online reputation and social media presence.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include a centralized inbox, team chat, scheduling, CRM, invoicing, social media management, task automation, and document storage.
Integrations include Google My Business, QuickBooks, PayPal, Square, Yelp, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Zoom, and Mailchimp.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automation features
- Marketing tools
- Centralized communication
Cons:
- No offline mode
- Limited customization
Zoho is a suite of cloud-based business applications designed for small to large businesses to manage their operations efficiently. It offers tools for ecommerce, finance, bookkeeping, HR, project management, and more, catering to various business functions.
Why I picked Zoho: Zoho comes with an advanced suite of software that includes more than 50 integrated applications, offering solutions for everything from sales and marketing efforts to customer support and accounting. Zoho's CRM tool helps manage customer relationships effectively with features like lead management, sales pipeline management, and workflow automation, while Zoho Books and People allow you to handle all financial and HR operations efficiently.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include advanced CRM functionalities, financial management, and HR software tools. Your team can benefit from automated workflows, detailed analytics, and customizable dashboards to improve productivity. Zoho also offers mobile apps for on-the-go access to critical business functions.
Integrations include Zoho CRM, Zoho Books, Zoho People, Zoho Projects, Zoho Desk, Zoho Inventory, Zoho Campaigns, Zoho Analytics, Zoho Creator, and Zoho Recruit.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Wide range of applications
- Real-time updates
- Easy customization
Cons:
- Complex setup
- Steep learning curve
Cin7 is a cloud-based inventory management solution designed for product sellers. It helps businesses manage inventory, automate workflows, and integrate multiple sales channels.
Why I picked Cin7: Cin7 provides real-time inventory tracking, barcode scanning, and batch processing to enhance warehouse management. It also supports advanced manufacturing processes and B2B payments, ensuring impeccable operations. Additionally, the platform's customization options cater to specific business needs, making it a versatile and valuable software for any organization.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include real-time inventory updates, barcode scanning, and batch processing. Your team can track live stock levels and get reordering alerts. You can also manage inventory across multiple locations with ease.
Integrations include Shopify, WooCommerce, BigCommerce, Xero, QuickBooks, Amazon, eBay, Etsy, Walmart, and Square.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Customizable SKUs
- Multi-location management
- Real-time updates
Cons:
- Requires technical knowledge
- Complex setup
ClickUp is an all-in-one productivity platform designed to enhance team collaboration and streamline work processes. It’s suitable for teams of all sizes, offering tools for task management, document collaboration, and communication.
Why I picked ClickUp: ClickUp combines tasks, documents, and chat in one place, making it easy for your team to stay connected and manage projects. The software also integrates AI tools to streamline tasks such as automation, project tracking, and communication. With AI-driven suggestions, smart automation, and time-saving features, teams can enhance productivity and collaborate more effectively across projects.
Standout features & integrations:
Features include tools like Gantt charts, dashboards, and native time tracking to help your team manage tasks efficiently. You can also create mind maps and use automations to streamline workflows. The platform supports various project management methodologies, including Agile.
Integrations include Slack, Google Drive, Dropbox, GitHub, Evernote, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Salesforce, HubSpot, and Trello.
Pros and cons
Pros:
- Automations without coding
- Time tracking
- Customizable workflows
Cons:
- Potential learning curve
- Can be complex to setup
Other Business Software
Here are some additional business software options that didn’t make it onto my shortlist, but are still worth checking out:
- Wave
User-friendly financial management
- CQ Business Management Software
For landscapers and arborists
- Exact
Real-time business data access
- SAP Business Technology Platform
For real-time data insights
- Priority Software
Scalable business management solution
- QuickBooks
For small business financial management
- monday.com
Customizable work management platform
- Sage 300
For medium-sized business financial management
- Growfin
AR automation for reducing DSO
- Odoo
Affordable ERP with extensive app store
Business Software Selection Criteria
When selecting the best business software to include in this list, I considered common buyer needs and pain points like integration with existing systems and user-friendliness. I also used the following framework to keep my evaluation structured and fair:
Core Functionality (25% of total weighting score)
- Manage finances and accounting
- Track expenses and income
- Generate financial reports
- Handle payroll processing
- Integrate with banking systems
Additional Standout Features (25% of total weighting score)
- Provide AI-powered analytics
- Offer customizable dashboards
- Support multi-currency transactions
- Include mobile app support
- Enable faultless third-party integrations
Usability (10% of total weighting score)
- Intuitive user interface
- Easy navigation
- Minimal learning curve
- Customizable user experience
- Responsive design
Onboarding (10% of total weighting score)
- Availability of training videos
- Interactive product tours
- Pre-built templates
- Live chat support during onboarding
- Access to webinars
Customer Support (10% of total weighting score)
- 24/7 availability
- Multiple support channels
- Comprehensive knowledge base
- Personalized support options
- Fast response times
Value For Money (10% of total weighting score)
- Competitive pricing
- Transparent pricing structure
- Variety of subscription plans
- Inclusion of essential features in base plan
- Cost versus benefits analysis
Customer Reviews (10% of total weighting score)
- Overall satisfaction ratings
- Feedback on customer support
- User experience insights
- Frequency of software updates
- Testimonials on ease of use
How to Choose Business Software
It’s easy to get bogged down in long feature lists and complex pricing structures. To help you stay focused as you work through your unique software selection process, here’s a checklist of factors to keep in mind:
| Factor | What to Consider |
| Scalability | Will the software grow with your business needs? |
| Integrations | Does it integrate with your existing tools (i.e. CRMs and ERPs)? |
| Customizability | Can it be tailored to fit your specific workflows? |
| Ease of Use | Is the software user-friendly for your team? |
| Budget | Does it fit within your financial constraints? |
| Security Safeguards | Does it offer robust security features? |
| Support | What kind of customer support is available? |
| Industry Fit | Is the software designed for your industry? |
Trends in Business Software
In my research, I sourced countless product updates, press releases, and release logs from different business software vendors. Here are some of the emerging trends I’m keeping an eye on:
- Applied AI and Machine Learning: These technologies enhance productivity and customer interactions through automation and data analysis. Vendors like Microsoft and Salesforce have integrated AI to provide predictive analytics and personalized customer experiences.
- Digital Immunity: Businesses are focusing on building resilience against digital threats through innovative cybersecurity measures. For instance, companies are increasingly adopting zero-trust architectures and biometric authentication to safeguard data.
- Industry Cloud Platforms: There is a rising trend of specialized cloud platforms tailored to specific industries. These platforms offer tailored SaaS, PaaS, and IaaS solutions, providing small and large businesses with more relevant and efficient tools.
- Real-Time Observability: Enhanced monitoring and analytics for real-time insights are becoming vital. Tools like Splunk and Datadog help businesses leverage big data for quicker decision-making and predictive analytics.
- Sustainable Technology: There's a growing push towards eco-friendly practices in tech development. Companies are integrating ESG frameworks into their operations, focusing on energy efficiency and reducing their carbon footprints.
What Is Business Software?
Business software is a set of programs that help companies perform essential tasks. Accountants, managers, and other professionals use these tools to manage finances, track projects, and communicate with teams.
Features like invoicing, reporting, and data analysis help users stay organized and make informed decisions. Overall, these tools make daily work easier and more efficient.
Features of Business Software
When selecting business software, keep an eye out for the following key features:
- User-Friendly Interface: Simplifies navigation and reduces the learning curve for new users.
- Scalability: Allows the software to grow with your business, accommodating increased data and user load. If you run a farm or small business, this can also help reduce costs.
- Integration Capabilities: Enables consistent connection with other tools and systems for enhanced functionality.
- Real-Time Analytics: Provides up-to-date insights and performance metrics to aid in decision-making.
- Cloud-Based Accessibility: Offers the flexibility to access the software from any location with an internet connection.
- Customization Options: Allows businesses to tailor the software to their specific needs and processes.
- Robust Security: Protects sensitive business data from unauthorized access and breaches.
- Automated Workflows: Streamlines routine tasks, saving time and reducing the likelihood of human error.
- Customer Support: Ensures timely assistance and problem resolution through various support channels.
- Mobile Compatibility: Supports usage on smartphones and tablets, enabling work on-the-go. This is a game-changer for startups and service-based businesses who need to manage operations while building their brand.
Benefits of Business Software
Implementing business software provides several benefits for your team and your business. Here are a few you can look forward to:
- Increased Efficiency: Automates routine tasks, freeing up time for your team to focus on more important work.
- Better Data Management: Collects and organizes data in one place, making it easier to find and use during reporting and tax season.
- Improved Communication: Offers tools for messaging and collaboration, keeping everyone on the same page.
- Accurate Reporting: Generates real-time financial reports, helping you make informed decisions quickly.
- Cost Savings: Reduces the need for manual labor and minimizes errors, saving money in the long run, helping you remain within budget.
- Scalability: Grows with your business, accommodating more users and data without a hitch.
- Compliance Support: Helps ensure your business meets industry regulations and standards at all times, not just tax season.
Costs & Pricing of Business Software
Selecting business software requires an understanding of the various pricing models and plans available. Costs vary based on features, team size, add-ons, and more. The table below summarizes common plans, their average prices, and typical features included in business software solutions:
Plan Comparison Table for Business Software
| Plan Type | Average Price | Common Features |
| Free Plan | $0/user/month | Basic features, limited storage, community support, and single user access. |
| Personal Plan | $5-$15/user/month | Advanced features, moderate storage, email support, and up to 5 users. |
| Business Plan | $20-$50/user/month | Premium features, large storage, priority support, and up to 50 users. |
| Enterprise Plan | $100-$300/user/month | Custom features, unlimited storage, dedicated support, and unlimited users. |
Business Software FAQs
Here are some answers to common questions about business software:
Can business software improve team collaboration?
Absolutely. Tools like Slack and Microsoft Teams enable real-time communication and file sharing, making it easier for your team to collaborate. Project management software like Asana can help you assign tasks, set deadlines, and track progress, ensuring everyone stays on the same page.
Is it worth paying for premium business software?
It often is. Premium software usually offers advanced features, better customer support, and regular updates. While free versions can be useful, they might lack the functionality you need as your business grows. Consider your long-term needs and choose accordingly.
How can business software help with financial management?
Business software like QuickBooks and Xero can automate invoicing, payroll, and expense tracking, saving you time and reducing errors. These tools provide valuable financial insights through detailed reports, helping you make informed decisions.
Can business software integrate with other tools?
Yes, many business software options are designed to integrate with other tools. For instance, accounting software might integrate with your CRM or payment processing systems. This integration can save you time by reducing manual data entry and improving data accuracy.
What’s Next?
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